The English We Speak – I’m game

Li
Welcome to The English We Speak, I’m Li. With me here is Neil.

Neil
Hello everybody.

Li
Hi Neil, you look very sporty today! Going to the gym?

Neil
Not exactly, but I’m dying for a game of squash after work. I’ve brought all my gear, I’ve booked the court, but I have no one to play against. Are you game, Li?

Li
Am I game? What are you talking about Neil? Of course I’m not a ‘game’, I’m ‘Li’!  My name is Li.

Neil
Well, I thought you knew this expression. The word ‘game’ doesn’t just refer to sports or activities. If someone asks you if ‘you are game,’ they want to know whether you are willing to try something; whether you are interested in doing something fun or unusual.

Li
I see. So you can use the word ‘game’ as an adjective as well as a noun?

Neil
That’s right. Let’s look at some examples:

Examples
So many people in England are fans of football; they all love the game.

Sam is brilliant at board games.

A: I’m going to have a fancy dress party next Saturday. Would you like to come?
B: Hey thanks! Yes, I’d love to. I’m game for a laugh.

A: Hey Brian, I’m organising a football match between the managers and the workers, do you want to play?
B: Sure, count me in. I’m game.

Neil
So, how about playing squash this evening: I’ve got two rackets here. Are you game?

Li
Oh, well, I’m not sure. I’ve not played squash for a long time.Sorry no, I don’t think I am game!

Neil
That’s a pity. Maybe another time. But at least we have taught a useful English expression.

Li
Yes we have, Neil. Enjoy your game. Bye for now!

Neil
Bye!