1. Beat a dead horse
鞭打死马令其奔驰(徒劳)
I don't want to beat a dead horse. = I don't want to repeat something over and over again.
我不想重复的说一件事。
例子:I hate to beat a dead horse, but it is very important that you understand this before you leave.
我不想多此一举。但你离开以前必须了解这个。
2. Beaten by the ugly stick
被丑杖打过(生的难看)
She was beaten by the ugly stick. = She is very ugly.
她生的很难看。
例子:Did you see that dog? It looked like someone beaten by the ugly stick.
瞧见哪知狗没有? 真难看,看来像被丑杖打过。
3. Beggars can't be choosers
讨饭的谈不上挑三拣四。
I know that beggars can't be choosers. = I know that if I am desperate I cannot be selective.
我知道在我走投无路的时候,我不能嫌好道歹。
例子:I didn't want to eat at this restaurant, but it is the only place that is open this late at night. I suppose that beggars can't be choosers.
我不想光顾这家饭店,但这么晚,别家都关门了。这时候我不嫌好道歹。