Show:
Virginia & Charlottesville
American Expressions & Idioms
Only in America
Money Matters
Daily Life in America
What Does It Mean?
100
What is Richmond?
This is the capital city of Virginia.
100
What is 'Break a leg'?
You say this to wish someone good luck before a performance.
100
What is free refills of soda or water?
In American restaurants, you can get unlimited amounts of this drink at no extra charge.
100
What is a tip or gratuity?
This is the extra money you leave for your server after a meal at a restaurant.
100
What is a trash can or garbage bin?
On garbage day, Americans put their trash in this and leave it at the edge of the street.
100
What is a container to take leftover food home?
A 'doggy bag' — you ask for this at the end of a restaurant meal.
200
Who is Thomas Jefferson?
This Founding Father built Monticello and founded UVA.
200
What is pay? It's free!
If something is 'on the house,' this means you don't have to do this.
200
What is 'Fine thanks' or 'Good thanks'?
When an American says 'How are you?' they usually expect this very short answer — not a real conversation.
200
What is 15 to 20 percent?
This is the typical percentage you should tip at a restaurant in America.
200
What is a library card?
This free card gives you access to books, internet, DVDs, and sometimes free museum passes.
200
What is a promise to do it another time?
A 'rain check' — you offer this when you can't accept an invitation today.
300
What are the Cavaliers / the Hoos?
UVA sports teams are called this — also a nickname for the school.
300
What is it's raining very heavily?
'It's raining cats and dogs' means this.
300
What is a potluck?
This American tradition means everyone brings a dish of food to share at a gathering or party.
300
What is a Social Security Number?
This important number identifies every American for taxes, employment, and banking.
300
What is 211?
This free phone number — not 911 — connects you to local social services, food banks, and community support.
300
What is a time when drinks are cheaper?
'Happy hour' — this usually happens in the late afternoon at a bar or restaurant.
400
What is the Downtown Mall?
This pedestrian street in downtown Charlottesville is closed to cars and perfect for walking, eating, and shopping.
400
What is taken on more than you can handle?
If you 'bite off more than you can chew,' you have done this.
400
What is sales tax?
This extra cost is added at the register but is NOT shown on the price tag in the store.
400
What is 5.3 percent, or around 5 to 6 percent?
Sales tax in Virginia is approximately this percentage.
400
What is a laundry room?
In many American apartments, residents share this room in the building to wash and dry their clothes.
400
What is crossing the street not at a crosswalk?
'Jaywalking' — this is illegal in many American cities.
500
What is the Mother of Presidents?
Virginia is sometimes called this nickname because so many U.S. presidents were born here.
500
What is decide or take action?
'The ball is in your court' means it is now your turn to do this.
500
What is Thanksgiving?
Americans celebrate this holiday on the last Thursday of November with turkey, family, and gratitude.
500
What is a W-2?
This document, received every January from your employer, shows your total earnings and taxes for the year.
500
What is a pie, cake, or baked goods?
When a neighbor moves in, some Americans traditionally bring them this as a friendly welcome gesture.
500
What is a Homeowners Association?
An 'HOA' — many American neighborhoods have one of these organizations that sets rules for residents.