Meanings of 'chic' and idol'

Dear Dr English,

Please explain to me the meanings of these two words: chic and idol.
Thank you.

Pimphan Tomete

"Chic", an adjective, describes something that is fashionable and sophisticated. It has a similar meaning to "stylish".
In this area you can find many shops selling chic clothes at reasonable prices.

The noun "idol" refers to a popular person such as a movie, pop or sports star who is adored by lots of people, even though they do not know him or her personally.
Thongchai McIntyre is one of Thailand's pop idols.

An idol is also an image or statue used by people as an object of worship.
The explorers found metal tools, bronze ornaments and idols buried about three metres in the soil.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Friends and acquaintances

Dear Dr English,

I would like to know the difference between "friend" and "acquaintance" and how to use them correctly. Thank you in advance for your help.

Wirat Kamlangkue

An acquaintance is somebody you have met but do not know very well.
Wanda is just an acquaintance; I don't know much about her.

A friend is somebody you like and know well.
Only my friends and family will be attending my wedding next month.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Ring a bell

Dear Dr English,

I read your column regularly. Why don't you run your column twice or more a week? I also have a question. Please look at the phrase below. I can guess the meaning, but I want to know what it means exactly. Many thanks for your kind explanation.
"One excellent dance number is called the Cat's Paw. Could you pass that name along and see if it rings a bell?"

Ja

When people say that something "rings a bell", they mean that it reminds them of something else, but they cannot remember exactly what it is.
Stephanie Cocker (Does that name ring a bell?)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Got a question?
If your query is chosen for Ask Dr English, you will receive a Bt1,000 gift voucher.
To claim your price from Nation Educational Services, you must fax a copy of your ID card to (02) 317-2057.