Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[missdaredevil]

dating a woman who can beat you at chess or *argue circles* around you about Middle East politics might be a bit of a blow to your ego at first,
Could anyone explain that?

Thanks

[bud]

Verbing circles around someone is doing that verb much better than the "someone." Arguing circles around someone means to argue much more effectively than that "someone." They would easily win a debate.

[missdaredevil]

Is it possible to use it in another sentence?
Thanks

[bud]

It's good that you asked that, MsD, because it made me realize my previous answer was not that well thought out. That is, there are not many verbs I can think of that would fit well in that expression.

One that would work is "to run:"

Tom could run circles around anyone in his class. (He was clearly the fastest.)

Unfortunately, I can't think of enough good examples to be able to figure out why some work well, and most don't.

Anyone have any ideas?

[Philo Kevetch]

I think Bud is correct; the expression is "to run circles around".

missdaredevil -

Imagine a foot race from point A to point B.

One person runs as fast as they can in a straight line.

Another runner is so much faster...... they are able to run around the first runner....making circles.... while continuing the race.

In your example - "argue circles" around - the expression has been "borrowed" to say that the woman can easily win a debate on a political topic.

I am a "hunt & peck" typist....my guess is that you can "type circles around" me. :) Philo

[missdaredevil]

I am a "hunt & peck" typist

Thanks for for pointing out the definition for "circle". BTW, what does that mean?

THANKS

[Philo Kevetch]

"hunt and peck"?

Try.... <<www.en.wikipedia.org>>

or <<www.google.con>>

or <<www.yahoo.com>>

type "hunt and peck" in the "search" line...

then.... click "search".

I think you will find the definition.... if not, please ask here again and I am sure someone will help you.

Hint... it's the opposite of "touch" type. :) Philo

[Philo Kevetch]

So ms. d.d. -

What's the story? any follow up? :) Philo