Discussion Groups / ESL Teaching / January 2005

Hi.

While I was listening a english education program, I heard this
expression "cough up a hairball".
It reminds me of one scene of the movie SHREK2 - I guess many of you
have seen that movie.

Do you remember the scene in which Puss in boots threatening shrek and
donkey?
I did't understand why Puss in boots cough up a hairball to be
helpless and why that scene is funny.

My question is,
1. "Cough up a hairball" - Does this expression imply other meaning
than just "VOMIT a hair ball" - I mean, literally?

2. Why Puss in boots lost his power after coughing up a hairball? And
why is it a funny scene?

Thanks for your help. In advance. :^)

Marty.