Understanding the Idiomatic Expression: 'Around the Corner'

In this episode of English in a Minute, the hosts explore the common English idiom "around the corner." While the literal meaning of this phrase refers to navigating a physical turn, its figurative usage is a staple in daily conversation for discussing time and upcoming events.

The Figurative Meaning of Time

When speakers use the expression "around the corner," they are not referring to a physical location. Instead, as the transcript explicitly defines, "when we say an event is around the corner, it means it will happen in the near future." This idiom is used to convey a sense of proximity regarding a future occurrence, often suggesting that time is moving quickly or that an event is approaching sooner than one might expect.

Contextual Usage and Dialogue

The podcast demonstrates this through a casual dialogue between two colleagues planning a New Year's party. One speaker notes, "New Year's is just around the corner," to which the other responds with surprise, noting, "It's still weeks away." This exchange highlights a crucial aspect of the idiom: it is subjective. While one person might feel that "there's not much time to plan" because the event is "around the corner," another might perceive the timeframe differently. The dialogue serves to emphasize that the phrase is used to create a sense of urgency or to acknowledge that a deadline is looming.

Enhancing the Expression

The hosts point out that the idiom is frequently modified to add emphasis. Listeners will "often hear people say 'right around the corner' or 'just around the corner' when using this expression." Adding these modifiers—"right" or "just"—serves to heighten the immediacy of the event. By incorporating these specific terms, a speaker can effectively communicate that the event is imminent and requires attention or preparation, much like the character in the podcast who felt compelled to make a "to-do list" because the party was approaching.

Conclusion

Ultimately, "around the corner" is a versatile tool for native English speakers to describe the passage of time. Whether an event is truly days away or simply approaching on the calendar, the expression bridges the gap between the present and the future, signaling that it is time to prepare. As the podcast concludes, this brief lesson provides a clear window into how idiomatic language shapes our perception of time in everyday communication.