the black sheep
2018.05.24
Meaning:
Sometimes in a family, there is one person who is very different. We can call that person ‘the black sheep of the family’ or just ‘the black sheep’. Sheep are usually white; so black sheep stand out. White sheep sometimes treat black sheep badly because they are so different. So the expression ‘the black sheep’ doesn’t *just* mean ‘someone who is different’. It suggests that the black sheep’s family maybe don’t like him/her.
Example:
A: Ugh. I don’t want to go home for Christmas…
B: Why not? You can spend time with your family. It’s great!
A: I’m the black sheep of my family. They’re all doctors. I’m an artist. They don’t understand me.
Talking Point(s):
Who is the black sheep of your family? Do you treat him/her badly?
大人からの英会話getgo 西船橋・荻窪・津田沼・本八幡