Scaredy Cat – Language Article
We can be frightened for all kinds of reasons; some are logical, such as a fear of snakes which might bite you, but people can be frightened of all sorts of things, many of them harmless: clowns, butterflies, clocks, moonlight. We call them phobias, and there are long lists of these phobias, most of them seemingly totally irrational. However, not all fears can be classed as phobias, and we have lots of different words to describe fear, and even ways to describe the people who experience these feelings.
Thanks to the wonders of Facebook I have recently linked up with a friend I used to play with when I was about eight years old. The phrase ‘scaredy cat’ was often used as a playground jibe when I was very young. Bigger and older children might dare someone to do something – such as climbing up on the bicycle shed and then jumping off into the coke pile – a really foolish thing to do as you would probably end up covered with coal dust and many scratches, and at worst you could break a leg. So the sensible thing to do was to take no notice of such jibes, but not everyone felt able to stand up to the teasing.
On This Day
31st October 1984 – Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister of India, was killed by two assassins believed to be her own bodyguards. Booh – It’s Halloween!
Interesting Fact Question
According to the Global Peace Index, where is the most peaceful place on Earth? Answer here
Interesting Fact Question
Where in England are children encouraged to read to dogs? Answer here
Interesting Fact Question
How many British people belong to a supermarket ‘loyalty’ scheme? Answer here