Our weekly program is about the words , expressions and idioms we use in American English . In any language , idioms can be difficult . Sometimes , you need to know a lot of ‘cultural backstory ’ -- the meaning behind the words -- to understand these sayings . And using them the right way can cause problems for English learners . But do not worry . Even people who grew up in the United States speaking English have problems with some of these idioms . This week we talk about another expression Americans usually get wrong . It does not sound very nice . But trust me . It's not that bad . First , let's start with the word “curious .” The word curious means to want to know things you don't know ; to investigate . So to be curious is not a bad thing . Adults and teachers often praise children with curious minds for asking questions -- sometimes a lot of questions ! Curious people can be very interesting . They want to know more about the world around them . Another way of saying curious is inquisitive . The verb "inquire " means to ask one or more questions . However , prying is a form of curiosity but not in a good way . Someone who is said to be prying into other people's business wants to know about things that do not concern them . And often prying is an effort to find out secrets by looking for them in improper ways . We often use it this way . Sometimes when we pry we are simply concerned about someone . But it can still start trouble . So , as we said , curiosity is usually a good thing . But it can also put you in harm's way . Being curious can get you into trouble . We often use this expression when others ask prying questions . People asking such questions are trying to find out something that is none of their business . They are being nosy . Okay , so now , let's hear an example of a nosy person asking prying questions by putting their nose where it does not belong . So , last night I saw Tom out with a woman and it wasn't Jessica ! I don't think so . You know , I'm having lunch with Jessica tomorrow . Maybe I'll ask her . I wouldn't do that if I were you . Aren't you curious ? But it's not a good idea to stick your nose into other people's business . I'm not being nosy . I'm just … curious . Just leave it alone . Here's the problem . That last part really changes the meaning . The cat gets to live . So , we use the first half of the saying as a warning : Be careful of the dangers of unnecessary investigation or experimentation ! But the second part -- "satisfaction brought it back " -- shows that the risk might be worth it . Not many English speakers know that in the original idiom the cat survives . But now you do ! We're so wonderfully wonderfully wonderfully Wonderfully pretty !