ESL Podcast 955 - Dating a Possessive Person

as much as the next guy - just like other people; a phrase used to emphasize that one's preferences or behaviors are normal

I like sports as much as the next guy, but don't you think it's crazy for the team to practice that much?

to own (someone) - to be in control of another person, especially controlling what that person does, with whom, and when, so that the other person feels the need to report to that person

Sure, it would be nice if your adult son did whatever you asked him to, but he's an individual and you don't own him.

possessive - wanting to have something only for oneself and not being willing to share it with others

Don't touch anything in Brenda's office! She's really possessive and she'll notice if anything gets moved.

to put (one's) foot down - to be very assertive and strong, clearly indicating the limit of something or clearly stating that something will not be tolerated

I'll put my foot down if I ever see any illegal activity at work.

clingy - wanting to be very close to another person, even when it makes the other person annoyed or comfortable; not able to be alone and away from someone

At first, Mike seemed nice, but as they continued dating, Alexandra began to realize how clingy he was.

jealous - with negative feelings of suspicion that another person will be unfaithful or not loyal

Some of Amy's best friends are men, and her new boyfriend becomes jealous when she spends time with them.

so much as - even; in a particular way, especially when referring to a small or inconsequential amount of something

Emmett is so shy, he won't so much as look at any of his coworkers when talking to them.

to reassure - to do or say something to help another person feel more comfortable or confident

Let me reassure you that all the personal health information provided on these forms will be kept confidential.

critical - saying bad things about other people while judging what they do or say or how they appear

Theodore was really critical of the restaurant, but I thought the food was pretty good.

to report in - to check in with someone periodically; to provide an update to another person so that he or she can monitor progress and be aware of what is happening

All the field employees are asked to report in to the supervisor at least once a week, so that we can keep track of their progress and address any problems.

whereabouts - where one is; one's location

The police are monitoring the suspect's whereabouts, hoping to find clues related to the recent murder.

controlling - wanting to make decisions about another person's actions; being in charge of what another person does, as well as when and how

The new boss is really controlling, and some of the more independent employees are having a hard time adapting to her management style.

update - the most recent information about something; information about the current status

They have a weekly meeting to provide updates about their work.

sweet - kind, caring, considerate, and attractive, often used to talk about little children and women

It's so sweet of you to bring cookies for your coworkers!