Lyrics & Translation
Dive into the world of English music with “Other Boys” by Marshmello and Dove Cameron! This captivating synth-pop track is a perfect way to explore English vocabulary and expressions related to emotions, particularly those surrounding love and longing. Its clear vocals and relatable theme of unrequited affection make the lyrics easy to follow, allowing you to learn new phrases while experiencing a deeply resonant and danceable story. You'll grasp how English is used to convey vulnerability and desire, making your language learning journey both engaging and emotionally impactful.
[English]
Why can't you want me like the other boys do?They stare at me while I stare at you
Summertime, East Side New York City
It's too hot to sleep
Half-alive, and my mind is drippin'
I'm twistin' the sheets
'Cause my heart can't be satisfied
By anyone but you tonight
And when I try, it only makes me blue
Why can't you want me like the other boys do?
They stare at me while I stare at you
Why can't you want me, baby, what can I do?
I don't want other boys, I just want you
I don't want other boys, I just want you
I don't want other boys
Silhouettes, a city of shadows
They all take your shape
In my defense, you've got me unraveled
And I can't see straight
'Cause my heart can't be satisfied
By anyone but you tonight
And when I try, it only makes me blue (why?)
Why can't you want me like the other boys do?
They stare at me while I stare at you
Why can't you want me, baby, what can I do?
I don't want other boys, I just want you
I don't want other boys, I just want you
I don't want other boys (I just want you)
Why can't you want me like the other boys do?
They stare at me while I stare at you
Why can't you want me, baby, what can I do?
I don't want other boys, I just want you
Key Vocabulary
| Vocabulary | Meanings |
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want /wɒnt/ A2 |
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stare /steər/ B1 |
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sleep /sliːp/ A1 |
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mind /maɪnd/ A2 |
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heart /hɑːrt/ A2 |
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satisfied /ˈsætɪsfaɪd/ B1 |
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blue /bluː/ A1 |
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boys /bɔɪz/ A1 |
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shape /ʃeɪp/ A2 |
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defense /dɪˈfens/ B2 |
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unraveled /ʌnˈrævəld/ B2 |
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see /siː/ A1 |
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shadows /ˈʃædoʊz/ A2 |
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city /ˈsɪti/ A2 |
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tonight /təˈnaɪt/ A2 |
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drippin' /ˈdrɪpɪn/ B1 |
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Key Grammar Structures
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Why can't you want me like the other boys do?
➔ Subjunctive mood (after 'can't'), comparative structure ('like')
➔ The use of 'do' after 'like' is a common feature of the subjunctive mood, expressing a wish or hypothetical situation. The sentence compares the subject's desire to how 'other boys' behave. The word 'like' functions as a preposition here.
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I don't want other boys, I just want you
➔ Negative imperative/statement of preference, coordinating conjunction ('and')
➔ This sentence expresses a strong preference. The repetition emphasizes the speaker's exclusive desire for the person they are addressing. 'Just' functions as an intensifier.
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In my defense, you've got me unraveled
➔ Past perfect tense ('ve got'), passive voice implied ('unraveled')
➔ The phrase 'you've got me' is a contraction of 'you have got me'. 'Unraveled' implies a state of emotional confusion or disarray *caused* by the other person, though it's not explicitly stated as passive. The phrase 'In my defense' introduces a justification.
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They all take your shape
➔ Present simple tense, metaphorical language
➔ This line uses metaphorical language. 'Taking your shape' doesn't mean literally changing form, but rather that the singer sees qualities of the person they desire in everyone else. The present simple suggests a recurring observation.
