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Full of beans

Very energetic and lively

EN
Example

The kids are full of beans after that birthday cake.

When to use it

Parents describing a child running around excitedly after eating cake.

What it means

This idiom dates back to the 19th century when beans were commonly used as animal feed, especially for horses. A well-fed horse would be lively and energetic. Today the phrase describes someone bursting with energy.

Don't confuse it with

"Full of beans" does not mean feeling extremely sleepy, being very wealthy, working very slowly. It specifically means "Very energetic and lively".

Why Learn British slang with mates?

🎯 Why Learn British Slang

If you're an American or non-British English speaker planning to visit, work, or study in the UK, you'll quickly discover that British English is far more than just a different accent. British people use completely different vocabulary for everyday situations, speak in layers of irony and understatement that confuse outsiders, and rely on cultural references and slang that traditional English courses never cover. Learning British slang transforms you from a confused tourist to someone who actually understands British conversation, humor, and culture.

👤 Who This Course Is For

This course is perfect for intermediate English learners (B1-B2 level) who want to understand British media, prepare for UK travel or relocation, work with British colleagues, or simply love British culture and want deeper access to it. It's designed for Americans confused by British vocabulary, international students preparing to study in the UK, professionals working with British teams, anglophiles who want to understand British TV and films authentically, and anyone frustrated by the gaps in their understanding when Brits speak naturally. You should have solid English foundations and be ready to explore regional vocabulary, cultural humor, and informal registers.

📚 What You'll Learn

Master essential British expressions used daily across the UK. Learn common reactions like 'gutted' (disappointed), 'chuffed' (pleased), 'knackered' (exhausted), and 'gobsmacked' (shocked). Understand uniquely British phrases like 'Bob's your uncle', 'taking the piss', 'couldn't be arsed', and 'lost the plot'. Discover British vocabulary for everyday items that differ from American English — what Americans call 'fries' are 'chips', 'pants' are 'trousers', and 'trash' is 'rubbish'. Learn how to navigate British pub culture, workplace banter, and social situations with appropriate vocabulary and cultural awareness.

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