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John Zhang
Joined: 08 Dec 2008
Posts: 2
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 Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2008 6:51 am Post subject: Meaning of "what do you know" |
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Dear teachers,
When I saw a movie or listened to the other's conversation, I often heard the phrase "what do you know" at the beginning of their words.
Then, they continued giving their opinion in the exclamation tone and the person whom they talk to never answer to the question "what do you know".
So, I think it may NOT be a phrase for asking a question in this situation.
But what does it really mean?
Or maybe, is it a pet phrase or a slang or an idiom for native speakers?
Take care,
John Zhang  |
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2006
Joined: 27 Nov 2006
Posts: 610
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| Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2008 11:32 am Post subject: Re: Meaning of "what do you know" |
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| John Zhang wrote: |
Dear teachers,
When I saw a movie or listened to the other's conversation, I often heard the phrase "what do you know" at the beginning of their words.
Then, they continued giving their opinion in the exclamation tone and the person whom they talk to never answer to the question "what do you know".
So, I think it may NOT be a phrase for asking a question in this situation.
You are right; they are not asking a question. "What do you know" is an expression of surprise, especially a good surprise.
'Well what do you know' is often used too. If you listen carefully, you might hear "Well" added in front of "what".
Take care,
John Zhang |
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CP
Joined: 12 Jun 2006
Posts: 2875
Location: California
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| Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2008 6:30 pm Post subject: |
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You can also use it to greet someone. "Hi, John. What do you know?" It's about the same as, "What's new?", "What's going on?", etc.
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb |
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John Zhang
Joined: 08 Dec 2008
Posts: 2
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| Posted: Wed Dec 17, 2008 10:17 pm Post subject: |
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Dear teachers,
Thank you for answering my question!
I'm glad now I know the expression "what do you know" can also be used as the meaning of "what's going on".
Best wishes,
John Zhang |
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