![[C] I get itchy feet...](https://images.ctfassets.net/r30ratzbtbbf/2GZIlpym4GpsMtaE78brUw/c1273afdb856c2606c3df60eefd848c5/I_get_itchy_feet....png)
LET'S UNDERSTAND! 📚
Pattern 1
looking forward to
looking forward to + [noun/verb in the gerund form -ing]
- used to indicate excitement or anticipation for a future event or experience.
-
I’m really looking forward to our beach vacation next month.
-
Sarah is looking forward to starting her new job at the international firm.
Examples:
Pattern 2
get away from
[subject] + get away from + [person, place, situation, or idea]
- used when someone wants to escape from their current environment, routine, or stress.
- it often refers to taking a break, holiday, or mental escape.
-
She got away from the crowd and found a quiet spot to relax.
-
Next weekend, I’ll get away from work and take a short trip to the beach.
Examples:
Pattern 3
get itchy feet
[subject] + get itchy feet + [optional context]
- used when someone feels a strong desire to travel, move, or experience new places.
-
After six months in one city, she got itchy feet and decided to backpack through South America.
-
Every summer, I get itchy feet and start planning my next big adventure.
Examples:
Pattern 4
see [person] off
[subject] + see [person] off + [optional location or details]
- used when talking about accompanying someone to a place of departure (like an airport, bus station, or train station) to say goodbye before they leave.
-
Tomorrow, I’ll see you off at the bus terminal before you head to college.
-
We saw him off at the bus station and waved until the bus disappeared.
Examples:
Pattern 5
leg of the journey
[article] + [adjective] + leg of the journey
- refers to a specific part or segment of a longer journey, particularly when a trip has multiple stages.
-
The first leg of the journey was a flight from New York to London.
-
After a short rest, we continued with the final leg of the journey to the mountain summit.
Examples:
Pattern 6
unspoiled countryside
[modifier] + unspoiled countryside + [optional context]
- used to describes a natural, scenic landscape that has not been damaged or altered by human development or modernization.
-
The travelers wandered through the vast unspoiled countryside.
-
They spent their days in the peaceful unspoiled countryside of the village.
Examples:
Pattern 7
a little bit run-down
[subject] + [verb] + a little bit run-down
- used to describe something (like a building, area, or even a person) that is in poor condition or has seen better days.
-
The hotel looked a little bit run-down, but the service was excellent.
-
After traveling for 12 hours straight, I felt a little bit run-down and needed some rest.
Examples:
Pattern 8
culture shock
[subject] + [verb] + culture shock
- used to describe the feeling of confusion or discomfort experienced when someone is exposed to a new and unfamiliar culture or environment.
-
She experienced culture shock when she moved from a small town to a bustling city.
-
I felt culture shock after spending a week in a country with such different customs.
Examples:
Pattern 9
feel homesick
[subject] + [verb] + feel homesick
- to describe the emotional longing for home or one’s family, especially when living or traveling far away.
-
During her first week at university, Emma felt homesick and called her family every night.
-
No matter how exciting the trip is, I always feel a bit homesick after a week away from home.
Examples:
LET'S READ! 📖
Direction: Read the conversation below. Then, exchange roles with your mentor.
Situation:
In a cozy café, two friends discuss Alex’s upcoming trip, expressing excitement, anxiety, and anticipation for the adventure ahead.
Emma
Alex
I am! But, honestly, a bit anxious too. I’ve been feeling homesick already, and I haven’t even left yet! The thought of being away for so long makes me a little nervous.
Emma
I totally get that. The first leg of the journey is always the toughest. But once you get away from everything familiar, you’ll likely get into the groove of things. Plus, once you’re there, you’ll experience the charm of the place. I hear it’s got some unspoiled countryside that's just breathtaking.
Alex
I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve heard so much about the area. But, to be honest, I’ve been a bit worried about the culture shock. It’s going to be such a different environment. I’m not sure what to expect.
Emma
Culture shock is always a part of the adventure. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you adjust, though. And remember, if you feel out of place, it’s totally normal. Just give yourself time to settle in.
Alex
Yeah, you’re right. I’m hoping I won’t get itchy feet too soon. I know I’ll want to explore, but I’m not sure if I’ll be ready to leave so soon. I’m afraid I’ll start missing home again.
Emma
It’s natural to feel that way. But you’ll have a great time. You might even make some lasting friendships. Besides, you're going to be in a part of the world that’s not too touristy, right? So that’s pretty exciting.
Alex
True. Though I’ve heard the town I'm staying in is a little bit run-down in parts. It might take some getting used to.
Emma
Oh, well, that’s part of the charm! It’s more authentic, and you’ll get to see the real side of the place. That’s always an enriching experience.
Alex
I guess you’re right. And to top it all off, I’ll be seeing some amazing sights, which will make everything worthwhile.
Emma
Exactly! You’ll come back with so many stories and experiences. I can’t wait to hear about all of it. I’ll be here to see you off and send you all the positive vibes for your journey!
QUESTIONS
1. Why is Alex feeling anxious about the trip?
2. What is Emma’s advice for handling culture shock?
3. What is Alex concerned about regarding the town where he’ll be staying?
4. What positive aspect does Emma highlight about the town being a little bit run-down?
LET'S PRACTICE! 📝
A. Transform the following sentences by incorporating the phrases where appropriate.
Example:
I really want to take a break from the daily routine.
Answer: I really want to get away from the daily routine.
1. The trip to Paris was long, but we finally reached the hotel after the first flight.
2. The view from the hill was amazing, with miles of untouched nature.
3. The hotel was not very modern, but it had its own unique charm.
4. After a few months, I started feeling like I needed a new adventure.
5. The food, language, and customs were so different from what I was used to.
B. Read the sentences below. If the sentence uses the phrase correctly, mark it "True." If it does not use the phrase correctly, mark it "False."
-
We went to see someone off at the airport and then headed straight home.
-
The unspoiled countryside was full of breathtaking landscapes and modern buildings.
-
I’m looking forward to my trip, but I also know I might feel homesick after a few days.
-
She has itchy feet and always wants to stay in one place for a long time.
-
We decided to see someone off at the airport, but instead, we just stayed at home.
Hey, Alex! I hear you’re about to leave for your big trip. Are you excited?