Best English Podcast - Monkey on your back - Idiom

Do you have a monkey on your back? Well, if may say no because you may not be familiar with this idiom. Hi, and welcome to the Best English Podcast by Teacher Bruno Gon. Today, I bring to you this idiom which I find very interesting: "Monkey on your back". Let's start by unraveling the origins of this idiom. The phrase "monkey on your back" is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It's often used to describe a persistent and burdensome problem or addiction that feels as though it's clinging to you, much like a mischievous monkey. So, what exactly does it mean when someone says they have a "monkey on their back"? To break it down, it typically refers to a personal issue, like an addiction, a secret, or an obligation that someone is struggling to manage. It feels like a constant weight on their shoulders, making it challenging to break free. One common context where this idiom is used is in relation to addiction. When someone has a substance abuse problem, that addiction is often described as the "monkey on their back." It's an apt metaphor because addiction can be as persistent and as difficult to shake off as an actual monkey clinging to you. Let's explore some real-life examples. Imagine someone trying to quit smoking after years of habit. They may say, "I've got this monkey on my back, and it's so hard to get rid of it." The monkey, in this case, symbolizes the craving and dependency. Another example could be someone hiding a big secret, like an affair. They might describe the affair as the "monkey on their back" because it's a constant source of guilt and anxiety. By that, I conclude this episode and again I ask you. Do you have any monkeys on your back? Well, if you need any help, don't be ashamed to ask. If you like this episode, please rate 5 stars, foward to friends, follow me back and hit the buzzer for further notifications. Thank you.