On the box
Neil and Feifei are moving house and they're surrounded by cardboard boxes. Feifei has had enough of packing. So when Neil makes a suggestion involving another 'box', Feifei isn't happy!
Feifei
Plates… OK. Spoons… all packed. That's one box full. The kitchen is finished, Neil!
Neil
All packed? Well done. Now let's move on to the bedroom.
Feifei
OK… I'm exhausted. In today's The English We Speak, Neil and I are moving house, and there's just so much packing to do. The house is full of cardboard boxes!
Neil
I know, I know Feifei. Listen, let's just finish this room and then we can sit down, relax and see what's on the box.
Feifei
Neil, the last thing I want to do is look at any more boxes! I need a break.
Neil
Oh, of course. What I meant was: see what's on TV! 'On the box' is a slang expression meaning 'on TV'.
Feifei
Ok, why didn't you just say 'on TV'?! Anyway, let's play some examples while we finish packing.
Neil
Good idea.
Examples
A: See anything good on the box last night?
B: Yeah! There was this great new series about spies.
A: What are you up to tonight?
B: Not much, just gonna relax in front of the box.
Neil
Yes—you can also relax 'in front of the box', which means in front of the television. And which reminds me, Feifei: where is the box, I mean, our TV?
Feifei
Oh, oh yes. I, err… packed it away already. But I don't remember which box I put it in.
Neil
You mean the box, is in… a box? But we've packed 20 boxes already. Which one is it in?
Feifei
Sorry! Let's just finish packing and then go out for dinner.
Neil
Yes, I've had enough of these boxes too, bye.
Feifei
Bye!