Li: I'm good. Are you free on Saturday evening? I'm holding a small dinner party.
Neil: Saturday? Yeah, that would be fantastic but I'd better just check with my other half.
Li: Your other half? What do you mean?
Neil: Yes I'm not sure if my wife has anything planned for Saturday.
Li: Oh! I didn't know you call your wife your other half. That's interesting.
Neil: Yes. That's a phrase often used by married couples to refer to each other.
Li: That's useful to know. Let's hear some examples:
A: How's your other half? Is she feeling better? B: Yes, she is much better, thanks.
Lady: I like the colour of the car but I should ask my other half before I buy it.
A: Fancy another pint, John? B: I'd love another pint but I have promised my other half I'll be home early.
Neil: So, people often refer to their partner as their other half.
Li: Can this phrase be used to refer to both a husband and a wife?
Neil: Yes, that's correct. And sometimes a man will refer to his wife as his 'better half'.
Li: Better half? Of course the woman is always the better half! Wouldn't you agree?
Neil: Of course! My wife always reminds me that she's my better half!
Li: Let's listen to a couple of examples:
A: Oh what a lovely room, you've made a great job of this. B: Thanks, but compliments should really go to my better half, she chose all the colours and the furniture.
A: Thanks for dinner last night. The food was fantastic! B: You're welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed it. It was a fun evening. I'm really lucky, my better half is a great cook, I just have to do all the washing up.
Li: I'm sure your wife thinks you are the better half although she may not say it.
Neil: I hope so.
Li: Well, just check with your better half and let me know if you are coming on Saturday.