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My momma always said life was like a box of chocolates… you never know what you’re gonna get.
Forrest Gump
Gonna
In informal speech, going to is often pronounced – gonna. This can also be shown in writing as gonna, but you should only write this form if you are quoting what somebody said.
- He said, “We’re gonna go in there and kick some ass!”
Some very common examples of the way words are often pronounced in informal speech and how you can write this conversational pronunciation are as follows:
- I dunno = I don’t know
- I gotta go = I’ve got to go
- I’m outa/outta here = I’m out of here (I’m leaving now)
- You don’t wanna know = you don’t want to know
- Kinda = kind of
- Cos (UK) = because
Cf. Contrações
Cf. Vocabulário: AIN’T
Wannabe
Wannabe describes a person who is keen to be famous or successful or behaves or dresses like somebody famous because they ‘want to be’ (wannabe) like them. A wannabe is usually trying unsuccessfully.
- Wannabe actors usually go to this club.
Cf. Gírias: WANNABE
In writing, apostrophes are often used in place of letters that are not pronounced.
- Rock ‘n’ roll = rock and roll
- G’day (AUS) = good day, hello
- You’re gettin’ old = you’re getting old
- C’mon, time to go = come on, time to go
- Ol’ man = old man
Cf. Gems of Wisdom: Have a good day
Ol’ Man River is a famous song about the Mississippi River from the musical play Show Boat. It is a sad song about the hard life of African Americans in the South. They are soon forgotten, it says, ‘But Ol’ man river, he just keeps rollin’ along.’
Cf. Letra Traduzida: STRANGE FRUIT
Cf. Mais Frases Célebres
Referência: “Gems of Wisdom – Inspirational Messages to Enhance the Quality of Your Life and Improve Your English” de Jack Scholes – Disal Editora, 2007. Leia a resenha. Adquira seu exemplar na Disal ou no Submarino.
Nice tips, Ulisses! Besides, I love Forrest Gump, this quotation of his is amazing, there’s always something really true behind his innocence. Thanks!