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50 Most Common English Idioms

• Categories: English Language Language Diversity

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Words: 1574 |

Published: Jan 21, 2020

Words: 1574 | Pages: 3 | 8 min read

What are idioms?

• Add fuel to the flames
• Answer nature’s call
• Accidentally on purposeIt refers to when somebody does something deliberately and then pretends that it was an accident.
• Badger someone
• Balancing act
• Be ones best bet
• Bare your soul
• Binge drinking
• Biting the hand that feeds youIf you are so harsh to someone who a lot to you and they are kind to you then they can say you are biting the hand that feeds you.
• Breathing down someone’s neck
• Clinch a deal
• A done deal
• In black and white
• Gentleman’s agreement
• No strings attached
• With one voice
• Like the back of one’s handWhenever you have a complete knowledge of something it means you know it like the back of your hand.
• Back into shape
• Back on your feet
• Up in armsWhenever somebody is up in arms, they are so angry over something.
• Get off my back
• Bite someone’s head off
• Be in a black mood
• Blow a fuse
• Bone to pick with someone
• Come down to someone like a ton of bricks
• Dressed to kill
• Down at heel
• Face like a bulldog chewing a wasp
• Mutton dressed as a lamb
• Big fish in a small pond
• Bring to heel
• Bulldoze someone into doing something
• Call the shots
• Too many chiefs, not enough Indians
• Crack the whip
• Dancing to someone’s tune
• Drawing a line in the sand
• Force someone’s hand
• At all costs
• Having a bee in your bonnet
• Blood, sweat and tears
• Having something on your brain
• Explore all avenues
• Embarrassment of riches
• on the fence
• Horns of a dilemma
• Come to a bad end

Works Cited

• Cambridge Dictionary. (n.d.). Idiom. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/idiom
• Chiu, Y.-L. (2017). The Use of Idioms in English Language Teaching. Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research, 9(2), 49–54.
• Crystal, D. (2008). A dictionary of linguistics and phonetics. Wiley-Blackwell.
• Idiomsite. (n.d.). Idioms and Their Meanings. https://www.idiomsite.com/
• Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Idiom. In Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idiom
• Phan, H. (2020). A survey on the use of idioms in English language teaching in Vietnam. Journal of Language and Linguistics Studies, 16(1), 1–13.
• Prithviraj, B. (2017). The role of idioms in enhancing language learners’ language proficiency. Journal of Applied Linguistics and Language Research, 4(2), 39–46.
• Seidl, J., & McMordie, W. (2010). English idioms exercises on phrasal verbs and idioms. Hueber.
• Tirkkonen-Condit, S., & Laukkanen, A.-M. (1996). Idioms in English: A corpus-based study of variation in current English usage. Walter de Gruyter.
• Wray, A. (2002). Formulaic language and the lexicon. Cambridge University Press.

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144 Key English Idioms You Should Learn to Sound More Fluent

Have you ever heard an English phrase that didn’t make sense even though you understood all the words? It was probably an idiom.

Idioms are phrases with meanings that can be hard to understand from their individual words. They add color and nuance to the language, conveying ideas and emotions in vivid and creative ways.

For example, the idiom “hit the hay” means to go to bed, but the literal interpretation of those words would not convey that meaning at all. After all, no one’s hitting anything and I don’t think anyone has slept on hay (dried grass) for a long, long time.

Idioms are super common in English, so you need to understand them to really understand the language.

Read on to learn 144 of the most common English idioms you can use in conversation to sound more fluent!

English Idioms About Emotions and Feelings

English idioms about money, english idioms with body parts, english idioms about food, english idioms about weather, english idioms about nature, how to practice english idioms, and one more thing....

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

1. Hit the hay

If someone says they’re going to hit the hay, it means they are going to bed. It reflects a need for rest, possibly due to emotional exhaustion or weariness.

After a long day at work, I can’t wait to hit the hay and get some good sleep.

2. Bite the bullet

To bite the bullet is to endure a painful or difficult situation with courage and resilience, often involving facing uncomfortable emotions or challenges.

I had to bite the bullet and apologize even though I didn’t think I was wrong.

3. Cry over spilled milk

Crying over spilled milk means to dwell on past mistakes or misfortunes, often implying that it’s unproductive to worry about things that cannot be changed.

There’s no use crying over spilled milk ; let’s focus on finding a solution.

4. Jump on the bandwagon

When someone jumps on the bandwagon, they adopt a popular trend or activity, often influenced by the emotions or opinions of others.

Many people are jumping on the fitness bandwagon this year, inspired by their friends’ healthy lifestyles.

5. Feel under the weather

Feeling under the weather means to be unwell or not in good health, expressing a physical condition that can influence one’s emotional state.

I won’t be able to make it to the party tonight; I’m feeling a bit under the weather .

6. Throw in the towel

If someone throws in the towel, they give up or surrender, often due to emotional exhaustion or the feeling that the effort is no longer worth it.

After hours of trying to fix the computer, I finally threw in the towel and called for professional help.

7. In the same boat

Being in the same boat means sharing a similar situation or predicament with others, usually involving common emotions or challenges.

We’re all in the same boat , dealing with the stress of upcoming exams.

8. On cloud nine

Being on cloud nine indicates a state of extreme happiness or euphoria, often resulting from positive emotions or experiences.

Winning the championship had me on cloud nine for weeks.

9. Burn the midnight oil

Burning the midnight oil means working late into the night, often due to strong determination or intense emotions related to a project or goal.

I had to burn the midnight oil to meet the deadline for my presentation.

10. Get over something

Imagine something happens that upsets you, but as time goes on, you stop feeling as strongly about it. This means that you’ve gotten over it : you no longer worry about it and it no longer affects you in a negative way.

It took a while, but I finally got over breaking up with Chandler.

11. Over the hill

If you’re getting older (especially over 50) and can’t be as physically or socially active as you used to be, you might say you’re over the hill . Be careful with this idiom, though, since it’s rude to say it about someone else.

I had to slow down after my knee surgery, but I don’t think I’m over the hill just yet.

12. Hit the books

Literally,  hit the books means to physically hit your reading books, but this phrase is actually used to say that you’re going to study.

Sorry, but I can’t watch the game with you tonight. I have to hit the books .

13. Hit the sack

The literal meaning of this would be physically hitting or beating a sack (a large bag), but idiomatically, it means you’re going to bed. You can also say hit the hay.

It’s time for me to hit the sack . I’m so tired.

14. Through thick and thin

When you’re loyal to someone, you support them no matter what happens, good or bad. This is an idiom you can use to say so.

Roger and Sally made it to their 50th anniversary because they stood by each other through thick and thin .

15. Off the chain

If you watch “America’s Got Talent,” you may have heard host Mel B exclaim that an act was “ off the chain! ” That means it was especially exciting or impressive—usually in a good way, though the expression can also mean “out of control.”

The Spice Girls concert was off the chain!

16. On the ball

If you’re on the ball , it means that you’re very quick to understand things or react quickly (and correctly) to a situation.

Wow, you’ve already finished your assignments? They aren’t due until next week. You’re really on the ball .

17. Face the music

If someone tells you to face the music , they want you to deal with the reality of a situation and accept all the consequences.

You need to face the music . You failed because you didn’t study, so you need to take the class again next semester.

18. Ring a bell

When someone says something that you may have heard before, but don’t remember entirely, you can use this phrase to let them know it’s familiar but you may need a reminder.

That name rings a bell , but I can’t quite remember where I know her from.

19. Blow off steam

If you’re experiencing some strong feelings and need to calm down, you can blow off steam by doing something to get rid of the stress.

If my mom gets mad, she’ll usually go on a run to blow off some steam .

20. Cut to the chase

When somebody tells you to cut to the chase , it means that you’ve been talking too long and you need to get to the point. Be careful how you use this idiom; it could be rude or disrespectful if used with someone like a boss or teacher.

Hi, guys. We don’t have much time here, so I’m going to cut to the chase .

Here’s a great video that teaches you 10 must know English idioms in six short minutes:

21. Pitch in

This phrase may once have had a literal meaning to do with farm work (think pitchfork), but it isn’t used that way now. Figuratively speaking, it means to contribute (give) or to join in.

Let’s all pitch in a few dollars so we can buy Sally a really good present for her birthday.

22. Cutting corners

Cutting corners refers to trying to save money by finding cheaper or quicker ways of doing something, often with the risk of sacrificing quality.

We need to finish this project on time, but let’s be careful not to cut corners and compromise its quality.

23. Break the bank

If something breaks the bank, it means it is extremely expensive or costs more than one can afford.

I’d love to go on a luxury cruise, but the prices for those trips would break the bank .

24. Foot the bill

To foot the bill is to pay for something, usually a substantial expense.

Since it was my idea to eat at the expensive restaurant, I’ll gladly foot the bill .

25. Cash cow

A cash cow is a business or investment that generates a steady and significant income.

Investing in real estate has proven to be a cash cow for many entrepreneurs.

26. Out of pocket

If someone is out of pocket, it means they have spent their own money, usually for work-related expenses.

I had to cover the travel expenses out of pocket, but I’ll be reimbursed later.

27. Pinch pennies

Pinching pennies involves being frugal or saving money by cutting unnecessary expenses.

While in college, I had to pinch pennies to make ends meet on a tight budget.

28. A drop in the bucket

If something is a drop in the bucket, it is a very small amount compared to what is needed or expected.

Donating a few dollars to charity is good, but it’s just a drop in the bucket compared to the overall need.

29. Rolling in dough

Rolling in dough means having a lot of money or being wealthy.

Ever since he started his own business, he’s been rolling in dough .

30. Throw money down the drain

To throw money down the drain is to waste money on something that is not worthwhile or doesn’t bring any value.

Buying that expensive gadget turned out to be throwing money down the drain ; I never use it.

31. Look like a million bucks

Bucks here is a slang term for “dollars.” If someone tells you that you look like a million bucks , it means you look absolutely fabulous!

Wow, Mary, you look like a million bucks . I love your dress!

32. Born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth

This refers to someone who comes from a wealthy and successful family.

John was born with a silver spoon in his mouth , so he doesn’t know what it’s like to work hard.

33. To go from rags to riches

“Rags” here refers to old, tattered clothes. This means you’ve gone from being poor to having a lot of money.

Jim Carrey went from rags to riches . He was once living in a van, but eventually became one of the highest-paid comedians in the world.

34. Pay an arm and a leg for something

Use this one when you have to pay a lot of money for something. You can also say that something “costs an arm and a leg.”

Nowadays, you have to pay an arm and a leg just for a tank of gas.

35. To have sticky fingers

If you have sticky fingers , you probably steal a lot. This whimsical idiom suggests that other people’s valuables stick to you when you touch them.

The manager fired the cashier because he had sticky fingers . He stole more than $200 in a month.

36. To give someone a run for their money

If you are competing with someone and you feel like you really had to work hard to outdo them, you can say they gave you a run for your money:

Joe really  gave me a run for my money  in the chess tournament. He almost beat me!

37. To pony up

This means you need to pay for something or settle a debt.

Pony up  and give me the $5 you owe me.

38. To ante up

Ante up  comes from the game of poker, where players bet their money before  the cards are dealt. Over time, the idiom has come to refer to any type of payment someone owes—not just in poker.

You’d better ante up  and give me that $10 I loaned you last week.

39. To up the ante

A similar idiom to  ante up is up the ante , which means “raise the stakes.” When people  up the ante , they bet more money than the person before them. This is used similarly in everyday conversation, when someone raises a bet or agrees to do more.

I wanted to place a $10 bet on the soccer match, but Daniel upped the ante  and raised the bet to $50.

40. Break even

This is the term you use when you’ve spent a certain amount of money, then earned roughly the same amount to balance it out.

The trip to the beach cost me $100, but I almost broke even  after winning $90 in a contest.

41. Break the bank

This refers to something that is overly expensive—something that requires more money than you have.

Taking a week-long vacation would break the bank . There’s no way I could afford to do it.

42. To be close-fisted

To be close-fisted (or closefisted ) is to be reluctant to spend any money, almost like you’re physically gripping it in your fist. Other words for this could be stingy or cheap .

Carl is so close-fisted , he won’t even buy snacks for the Christmas party.

43. To go Dutch

This is used when everyone pays for their own meal at a restaurant. (Note that this may be perceived as offensive to or by Dutch people.)

Usually we go Dutch when we eat out, but this time I paid for her food since it was her birthday.

44. Shell out money

This means you hand out money to pay for something. It uses “shell” in the sense of shelling peas from a pod.

I wish I hadn’t gotten that new car now that I’m shelling out $1,000  a month in payments.

45. Midas touch

This idiom comes from the story of King Midas, who turned everything he touched into gold. It’s used to say that someone is very successful in their business ventures and has an easy time making money.

Jane really has the Midas touch . Every business she starts becomes very successful.

46. Receive a kickback

If you receive a kickback , it means you are receiving money illegally, like a bribe.

The police chief was arrested after it was revealed that he was receiving kickbacks  to ignore certain crimes.

47. Living hand to mouth

This means you’re barely earning enough to survive: any money that comes into your hand is immediately spent on food to put in your mouth.

The family has been living hand to mouth  ever since their father lost his job.

48. To be loaded

If someone is loaded, it means they have a lot of money.

Billy paid his Harvard Law School tuition with cash. His family is loaded .

49. Make ends meet

This refers to making enough money to cover the necessities, like buying food and paying the bills.

I don’t make much from my job as a cashier, but I’m able to make ends meet .

50. As genuine as a three-dollar bill

This is an American idiom that is used to say something is fake. The U.S. never made three-dollar bills, so there’s no such thing as a genuine three-dollar bill.

Those supposed designer bags they sell on the street are as genuine as a three-dollar bill .

51. In the red

In a traditional ledger book, debits (losses) are noted in red ink. To be in the red is to lose more money than you make.

I’m in the red  this month after paying that speeding ticket.

52. In the black

The opposite of being in the red is being in the black , which means that you’ve made more money than you spent.

After working a couple of small jobs over the weekend, I earned an extra $500 and am back in the black .

53. Cost an arm and a leg

If something costs an arm and a leg, it means it is very expensive, potentially causing financial strain and emotional stress.

Going on that luxury vacation would be amazing, but it would cost an arm and a leg .

54. All ears

If someone is all ears, it means they are eagerly listening and paying full attention.

When the teacher mentioned a surprise, the students were all ears .

55. Heart of gold

Having a heart of gold means being kind, generous and compassionate.

Despite facing hardships, she has a heart of gold and always helps those in need.

56. Keep an eye on

To keep an eye on someone or something means to monitor or watch attentively.

The security guard has to keep an eye on the surveillance cameras throughout the night.

57. Head in the clouds

Having your head in the clouds means being dreamy or not paying attention to reality.

Instead of focusing on the lecture, she often has her head in the clouds , daydreaming about her upcoming vacation.

58. Kick the bucket

To kick the bucket is a euphemism for dying or passing away.

He lived a long and fulfilling life before finally kicking the bucket at the age of 95.

59. Under one’s thumb

If someone is under another person’s thumb, it means they are under that person’s control or influence.

Despite being the boss, he keeps his employees under his thumb , making all the decisions himself.

60. Put one’s foot in one’s mouth

Putting one’s foot in one’s mouth means saying something unintentionally embarrassing or tactless.

I really put my foot in my mouth when I accidentally revealed the surprise party before it happened.

61. Twist someone’s arm

To twist someone’s arm would be rather painful if you took it literally, but it really means they’ve been convinced to do something they wouldn’t have done otherwise.

I wasn’t going to go to the party, but my friends twisted my arm and got me to go.

62. Stab someone in the back

While it still hurts, the idiomatic meaning of this phrase is not nearly as painful as literally being stabbed. What this actually means is to hurt someone who trusted you by betraying them. 

I can’t believe she would cheat and stab me in the back like this! I really trusted her.

63. Lose your touch

No, this doesn’t mean you’ve lost your physical sense of touch. To lose your touch actually means to lose a skill you once had.

She used to be the best hairstylist in town, but she’s really losing her touch.

64. Sit tight

This does not mean you sit down and hold your body as tightly as you can. If a person tells you to sit tight , what they really want you to do is wait patiently.

Sit tight while I go see if Mr. Henkel is ready to see you.

65. Eyeball it

Sometimes you don’t need an exact measurement: a rough estimate is good enough. When you estimate an amount of something based on how it looks, you can say you’re eyeballing it .

I’ve made this recipe often, so I didn’t bother to measure out a cup of rice; I just eyeballed it .

66. Rule of thumb

If you hear someone say as a rule of thumb , they mean that it’s a general, unwritten rule learned from experience, as opposed to exact guidelines.

As a rule of thumb , you should always pay for your date’s dinner.

67. Keep your chin up

If you’re having a hard time, a supportive friend might tell you to keep your chin up . This means they are encouraging you to stay positive and not let difficult circumstances get you down.

I know it’s hard having a sick family member, but keep your chin up .

68. Find your feet

If you find yourself in a new situation, like living in a new country and having to get used to a new college, you could say you need to find your feet . It means that you’re still adjusting and getting used to the new environment.

I only moved to France two months ago, so I’m still finding my feet .

69. Play it by ear

If someone says they’re playing it by ear , it means they’re responding to circumstances as they develop without having a plan, like a musician jamming without a musical score.

Don’t ask me where I see myself in five years. I’m playing life by ear .

70. Knuckle down

To knuckle down is to work hard or seriously at a task. If you tend to procrastinate, then you know when it’s time to do this.

My essay is due tomorrow morning! I have to knuckle down and get it done tonight.

If you want to learn a few more English idioms about the body, see this post:

Idioms about health are very common in English. If you don’t understand them or take them literally, you’ll end up extremely confused. Check out our list of 15 common…

71. Spice things up

To  spice things up  means to make them more interesting or exciting.

Instead of just buying Sam a birthday gift, let’s  spice things up  by taking him out for dinner.

72. A piece of cake

A  piece of cake refers to a task or job that’s easy to do, like eating a delicious piece of cake! If you don’t prefer cake, you can also say it’s easy as pie .

I expected the English test to be difficult, but it was a piece of cake .

73. Cool as a cucumber

Cucumbers have a refreshing taste and leave you with a cool, calm feeling. If you’re cool as a cucumber , you’re someone who’s very calm and relaxed.

My friend is nervous about taking his driving test, but I’m cool as a cucumber .

74. A couch potato

A  couch potato refers to someone who spends a lot of time sitting on the couch, watching TV.

After my uncle retired from his job, he became a  couch potato .

75. Bring home the bacon

To  bring home the bacon  means to make an income or earn a living to support your family.

Ever since her father was injured, she’s been working two jobs to  bring home the bacon .

76. In hot water

When someone is  in hot water , they’re in a bad situation or serious trouble.

Kevin is in hot water after committing tax fraud.

77. Compare apples and oranges

Apples are very different from oranges in both appearance and taste. This idiom is used to suggest that such different things are best considered for their own merits.

I’m not sure which I enjoy more—pottery or dancing. It’s like  comparing apples and oranges .

78. Not one’s cup of tea

If something is  not your cup of tea , it’s an activity you have no interest in, don’t do very well or don’t enjoy.

Camping is really  not my cup of tea , so I’m going to visit my friend in New York instead.

79. Eat like a bird

How much does a bird eat? Not very much, right? To eat like a bird  is to eat very little.

Don’t trouble yourself cooking such a big meal. I  eat like a bird .

80. Eat like a horse

Now, a horse is much bigger than a bird. You’d be right to guess that to  eat like a horse is to eat a lot.

My mother has to cook a lot of food when my brother comes to visit. He  eats like a horse .

81. Go cold turkey

To go cold turkey means to suddenly stop a (usually dangerous) behavior, such as drinking alcohol. A person who suddenly quits something addictive can suffer from pale skin and goosebumps, making them look like a cold, uncooked turkey.

I quit smoking cold turkey and never felt the need to go back.

82. Butter someone up

To  butter someone up is to flatter someone in order to win their favor. 

I’m going to butter up my mom so she lets me hang out with my friends later.

83. Food for thought

Food for thought  refers to something that’s worth thinking carefully about.

Your proposal gave us a lot of food for thought . We’ll get back to you with a decision in a few days.

84. A smart cookie

Here’s an easy one.  A smart cookie  is an intelligent person.

It shouldn’t be hard for a smart cookie  like you to learn Spanish.

85. Packed like sardines

Packed like sardines describes a place or situation that’s very crowded, such as a concert hall or sports event.

Were you at the football game last night? We were packed like sardines in the stadium.

86. Spill the beans

To  spill the beans  is to accidentally or prematurely give out information that’s supposed to be kept secret.

Owen  spilled the beans to Joyce about her surprise party, so she knows what’s happening.

87. A bad apple

If you have a basket of apples and one of them is rotten, the rot can spread quickly to the rest. Idiomatically, a bad apple is a person who creates problems or is a bad influence on the other people in a group.

John’s the bad apple : he gets his friends to do dangerous and illegal things.

88. Bread and butter

Bread and butter are some of the most basic food items that one can live on. The idiom  bread and butter  refers to a job that makes the money you need to live and afford basic necessities like food, housing, etc.

Fishing is the  bread and butter  of the friendly people I met on the island last summer.

89. Buy a lemon

To  buy a lemon  means to buy something (usually a motor vehicle) that doesn’t work well and is therefore worthless.

The car looked so new and shiny. I had no way of knowing I was buying a lemon .

90. A hard nut to crack

Is it easy to crack open a nut? Well, a hard nut to crack refers to a person who’s difficult to get to know or get information out of. (Also appears as  a tough nut to crack.)

I want to know what secret she’s hiding, but she’s a hard nut to crack.

91. Have a sweet tooth

Do you like eating cakes, candy and other sweet-tasting food? If you do, then you can say you  have a sweet tooth .

I definitely have a sweet tooth : I need dessert every night.

92. Full of beans

If someone is full of beans, they are energetic, lively and enthusiastic.

Despite the long journey, the kids were full of beans when they arrived at the amusement park.

93. In a nutshell

To explain something in a nutshell means to describe it briefly and concisely.

In a nutshell , the new policy aims to streamline the decision-making process.

94. Bring home the bacon

Bringing home the bacon means earning a living or providing financial support for one’s family.

As the sole breadwinner, he works hard to bring home the bacon for his family.

95. The icing on the cake

The icing on the cake refers to something additional that makes a good situation even better.

Winning the championship was great, but getting a scholarship was the icing on the cake .

96. Sell like hotcakes

If a product or item is selling like hotcakes, it means it is selling very quickly and in large quantities.

The new smartphone is selling like hotcakes , with people lining up to get their hands on it.

97. Out of the frying pan into the fire

Moving from one difficult or challenging situation to an even worse one is described as going out of the frying pan into the fire.

Leaving my stressful job only to join a company in financial trouble felt like jumping out of the frying pan into the fire .

98. Under the weather

If you’re feeling under the weather , you’re not your usual self and could be feeling a little sick. 

I was feeling under the weather , so I called my work and told them I wasn’t coming in.

99. A storm is brewing

This idiom is used in anticipation of trouble. Usually it means there’s been some kind of sign that this trouble is coming.

She decided to go ahead with their wedding, even though all they’ve been doing lately is arguing. I can sense a storm is brewing .

100. Calm before the storm

The air may be still before a storm actually hits. To say there is a  calm before the storm is basically saying that things may be peaceful now, but it won’t last.

They had a bit of a honeymoon phase, but that was just the calm before the storm.

101. Weather a storm

It’s not exactly enjoyable to sit through a storm, so it makes sense that this idiom refers to enduring something that is difficult.

They really had to weather the storm while they waited for more people to be hired to help.

102. When it rains, it pours

Bad luck tends to come in batches. This idiom illustrates the phenomenon with the idea that any rain will become a downpour.

First he was laid off, then his wife got into a car accident. When it rains, it pours.

103. Chasing rainbows

Have you ever tried to chase a rainbow? If you have, you know catching it is an impossible task. This is why someone pursuing a very difficult goal is said to be chasing rainbows .

He’s not very artistic, but he insists on being a professional painter. He’s always chasing rainbows .

104. Rain or shine

If you are dedicated to getting something done no matter what, you are willing to do it rain or shine . This is one of the rare idioms that’s also often used literally, for outdoor events that will take place whether it rains or not.

We’re having our soccer tournament tomorrow, rain or shine .

105. Under the sun

This idiom refers to everything on Earth and is usually used as part of a superlative.

Gili Trawangan must be one of the most beautiful islands under the sun .

106. Every cloud has a silver lining

A silver lining is the little bit of good that can be found in every situation, like sunlight peeking from behind a cloud.

Sure, you took the wrong trail, but you got to see a beautiful waterfall. Every cloud has a silver lining!

107. A rising tide lifts all boats

Boats of all sizes float at the same level: if the water rises, all the boats rise with it. Usually this idiom refers to how a stable economy often benefits everyone.

When the economy showed the first signs of recovering, everyone started investing and spending more. A rising tide lifts all boats.

108. Raining cats and dogs

When it’s raining cats and dogs, it’s raining very heavily.

We had to postpone the outdoor event because it started raining cats and dogs .

109. Come rain or shine

No matter the weather conditions, if something happens come rain or shine, it means it will occur without fail.

We’ll have the picnic, come rain or shine ; I’ve been looking forward to it for weeks.

110. Snowed under

Being snowed under means being overwhelmed or inundated with a large amount of work or responsibilities.

I can’t go out this weekend; I’m completely snowed under with work.

111. Break the ice

To break the ice means to initiate a conversation or ease tension in a social situation.

Sharing a funny story helped break the ice at the awkward family reunion.

112. Throw caution to the wind

If someone throws caution to the wind, they take risks without worrying about the consequences.

Feeling adventurous, she decided to throw caution to the wind and take a spontaneous road trip.

113. In the eye of the storm

Being in the eye of the storm means being in the center of a difficult or chaotic situation.

Despite the chaos around her, she remained calm in the eye of the storm .

For even more weather-related English idioms, check out these posts:

Adding English weather idioms to your conversations can make you sound more like a native English speaker and boost your speaking skills. Check out these 40 common idioms…

Learning winter sayings is the perfect way to face the winter! These English winter expressions add warmth and fun to conversations! This post has an array of winter…

114. Get into deep water

This idiom is pretty close to the literal meaning: being in deep water means you’re in a tricky situation that is hard to escape.

He got into deep water when he borrowed a lot of money from a loan shark.

115. Up in the air

If someone tells you that things are up in the air , it means that a situation is uncertain or unsure. It’s as though a ball has been tossed upward, and no one knows exactly where it will land.

Our plans for this weekend are up in the air until Jen tells us when she gets off of work.

116. Pour oil on troubled waters

If you pour oil into the sea, it has a calming effect on the waves. You shouldn’t do that in reality, but you can use this idiom to say that you’re trying to soothe the tension following an argument.

She hated seeing her two best friends arguing, so she got them together and poured oil on troubled waters .

117. Make waves

Much like dropping a stone into a pond to make ripples, to make waves is to cause trouble or change things in a dramatic way.

She likes to make waves with her creative marketing campaigns. They get a lot of attention from customers.

118. Go with the flow

To  go with the flow is to allow things to happen and accept them as they are, like a leaf floating along on the surface of a river.

Just go with the flow and see what happens!

119. Lost at sea

Just as you’d be overwhelmed if you were stranded in the ocean, to be lost at sea is to feel unsure about what to do or that you don’t have any purpose or plan.

I feel lost at sea . I just don’t think this is the career path for me.

120. Sail close to the wind

This means to act just within the limits of what’s legally or socially acceptable. You may try to push boundaries and could sometimes cross the line.

A lot of people don’t like him because he sails too close to the wind .

121. Make a mountain out of a molehill

A molehill is very small, so if you act like it’s the size of a mountain, you are exaggerating the severity of the situation.

She shouted at him for being five minutes late. She really made a mountain out of a molehill .

122. Gain ground

If you’re gaining ground , you’re making good progress. This can mean physically crossing ground quickly, as in a race, or it can be figurative.

We’ve really gained a lot of ground in our group project, and I think we’ll finish on time.

123. Walking on air

Use this if you feel very excited or happy. “Over the moon,” “on cloud nine,” “in seventh heaven” and “in good spirits” are a few more expressions you can use to talk about happiness .

She’s been walking on air since she found out that she’s pregnant.

124. Once in a blue moon

A blue moon comes every two to three years, so saying that something happens once in a blue moon is saying that it happens very rarely.

She only comes to visit  once in a blue moon .

125. Many moons ago

This is one of those English expressions that’s a little bit formal or dated. You’ll most likely hear it in stories, or when someone is trying to create a dramatic effect. It means that something happened a long time ago.

Many moons ago , we used to be two very close friends. Now we’ve gone separate ways and lost contact.

126. Castle in the sky

This one sounds a bit like something from a fairytale, which makes sense since it is a daydream or hope that’s not likely to come true. Building castles in the sky refers to fantasizing about an unrealistic future.

Seeing the world used to be a castle in the sky for most people, but globalization is helping people travel more easily.

127. Down to earth

To be  down to earth is to be modest, practical, unassuming and unpretentious.

He’s my favorite professor; he’s so down to earth .

128. Salt of the earth

If you are the salt of the earth , you are a good and honest person.

My father is the salt of the earth . He works hard and always helps people who are in need.

129. The tip of the iceberg

The majority of an iceberg is below the surface of the water. If someone says something is the tip of the iceberg , it means that there’s a lot more going on than what’s immediately obvious.

Exceptionally long drought periods are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the global impact of climate change.

130. Bury your head in the sand

This one means that you’re trying to avoid a particular situation by pretending that it doesn’t exist. It refers to a popular myth that ostriches would stick their heads in the sand to “hide” when frightened.

Stop burying your head in the sand . You haven’t been happy with him for years, so why are you staying together?

131. Let the dust settle

This means you are allowing a situation to become calm after something exciting or unusual has happened.

You just received big news. Let the dust settle before you make any decisions.

132. Clear as mud

Mud is not a transparent substance, so this means that something is actually not clear at all. 

He’s a great scientist, but I find his explanations in class are as clear as mud .

133. As cold as stone

Stones can be very cold. If you say that someone is just as cold, you’re saying that they are unemotional or not empathetic. Cold as ice has the same meaning.

She never smiles. She seems as cold as stone .

134. Between a rock and a hard place

This means that you are faced with a choice between two equally unsatisfactory options.

I can understand why she couldn’t make up her mind about what to do. She’s really between a rock and a hard place .

135. Nip something in the bud

This is to stop a bad situation from becoming worse by taking action at an early stage of its development.

Managers should know how to nip performance issues in the bud , or they’ll only get worse.

136. To hold out an olive branch

If you’re holding out an olive branch , you’re extending a hand of friendship and offering peace to a rival.

After years of rivalry with her cousin, she decided to hold out an olive branch and invite her to lunch.

137. Beat around the bush

This means you spend a long time getting to the main point of what you’re actually trying to say.

I don’t have much time, so stop beating around the bush and tell me what actually happened.

138. Out of the woods

This means the worst part of a difficult situation is over, and the end goal is in sight.

The surgery went very well, so he’s officially out of the woods . He just needs to recover now.

139. Can’t see the forest for the trees

This means someone is unable to see the whole situation clearly because they’re looking too closely at small details.

He’s worried about the flowers, but the rest of the wedding has been beautiful. He just can’t see the forest for the trees .

140. Barking up the wrong tree

This means that efforts have been put into something that won’t produce the desired outcome. Picture a dog barking to scare a squirrel out of a tree…but the squirrel is hiding in a different tree.

If you think she’s going to lend you money, you’re barking up the wrong tree . She never lends anyone anything.

141. Branch out

To branch out means to diversify or expand into new areas, much like the branches of a tree.

The company decided to branch out into international markets to reach a wider audience.

142. Turn over a new leaf

If someone turns over a new leaf, it means they make a positive change in their behavior or lifestyle.

After the difficult breakup, she decided to turn over a new leaf and focus on self-improvement.

143. The grass is always greener on the other side

This idiom implies that other people’s situations or circumstances often seem better than one’s own.

Don’t be fooled by appearances; the grass is not always greener on the other side .

144. Bear fruit

If a plan or effort bears fruit, it means it becomes successful and produces positive results.

The conservation project has been ongoing for years, and now it’s starting to bear fruit with an increase in wildlife populations.

If you want to learn some more animal-related English idioms, read this post:

Animal idioms in English are useful to know for all learners. See why it’s so much fun to speak English using these 34 wild idioms and expressions that feature animals.…

To learn idioms efficiently, it’s important to be exposed to native-spoken English as much as possible, whether it’s in person or virtually. Take any chance you can to try out a new idiom in conversation.

The next time you watch an English movie or TV show, write down any strange and funny expressions you hear so you can look them up later.

You can also search the language learning program  FluentU for an idiom or a phrase, and you’ll see any videos that contain it.

The more comfortable you get using English idioms, the closer you get to reaching full English fluency!

Looking for even more English idioms? You’re in luck! Here you go:

This post has 100 idioms and their meanings in English, along with their pronunciations! Go all out and memorize these English idioms to help you fit in, understand native…

If you like learning English through movies and online media, you should also check out FluentU. FluentU lets you learn English from popular talk shows, catchy music videos and funny commercials , as you can see here:

If you want to watch it, the FluentU app has probably got it.

The FluentU app and website makes it really easy to watch English videos. There are captions that are interactive. That means you can tap on any word to see an image, definition, and useful examples.

FluentU lets you learn engaging content with world famous celebrities.

For example, when you tap on the word "searching," you see this:

FluentU lets you tap to look up any word.

Learn all the vocabulary in any video with quizzes. Swipe left or right to see more examples for the word you’re learning.

FluentU helps you learn fast with useful questions and multiple examples. Learn more.

The best part? FluentU remembers the vocabulary that you’re learning. It gives you extra practice with difficult words—and reminds you when it’s time to review what you’ve learned. You have a truly personalized experience.

Start using the FluentU website on your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes or Google Play store. Click here to take advantage of our current sale! (Expires at the end of this month.)

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50 Common English Idioms and their Meanings (with Examples)

July 5, 2023

I studied German as an undergrad. I memorized the cases and disorienting verb placement, and after four semesters, I felt pretty slick. But then I went to Germany and didn’t understand a thing. My theory is that my cluelessness had something to do with the prevalence of idioms in German. Before we look at common English idioms and 50 idom examples, I’d encourage you to hold your horses (which is also #24 below) and first read the definition of precisely what an idiom is.

What is an idiom?

Idioms are phrases that can’t be understood by looking at the meanings of the words individually. Idioms are therefore an example of figurative language . What were people talking about when they said, “Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof” (literally: I only understand train station ), or, “Ich hab Schwein gehabt” (literally: I had a pig )? I knew what the words meant, but the meanings of the sentences as whole units remained a mystery. Of course, Germans aren’t the only ones who use idioms to get their points across (hey—there’s an idiom!). English is chock full of them (there’s another). What follows is a list of common English idioms, their meanings, and their sometimes funky backstories.

50 Common English Idioms

1) A dime a dozen: If something is a dime a dozen, it’s common, easy to come by, or not of much value—you can get a dozen of them for just ten cents! Fitness YouTubers are a dime a dozen these days .

2) A slap on the wrist : A slap on the wrist is a mild or inconsequential punishment, especially when a more severe punishment is warranted. The company had to pay a fine after causing the oil spill—a slap on the wrist!

 3) All Greek to me : I thought I was going to understand German after studying it for years, but once I was in Berlin, it was all Greek to me. I didn’t understand a word of it. When something is all Greek to you, you can’t understand what is being said.

 4) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush : This is one of the many common English idioms that are intuitive when you break it down. It typically stands alone, and means that it’s better to keep something you already have than it is to risk it by trying to get something better.

Examples of Idioms (Continued)

 5) Achilles’ heel : An Achilles’ heel is a weakness or vulnerability that could lead to failure. For example: I’ve been trying to reduce the time I spend on my phone, but YouTube is my Achilles’ heel. The idiom comes from Greek mythology. Thetis, Achilles’ mom, grabbed her big boy by the heel and dipped him in the River Styx, which was said to confer the power of invincibility. But because she was holding his heel, that part of Achilles didn’t get wet. Fast forward to the Trojan War: Achilles takes an arrow to the you-know-what, and that was that.

 6) At the drop of a hat : If something’s done at the drop of a hat, it means it was done quickly, without hesitation. My friend John, for example, will start singing at the drop of a hat . The phrase has its roots in the 19th century when the drop of a hat was used to signify the start of a fight or race .

7) Barking up the wrong tree : If you’re barking up the wrong tree, you’re wrong, or mistaken about something. When I ask a coworker if I can take Friday off, he might tell me that I’m barking up the wrong tree—he doesn’t have the authority to give me a day off; I’d need to ask my manager instead.

8) To beat around the bush : To beat around the bush is to avoid an important, or difficult, part of a conversation. When you implore someone not to beat around the bush, you’re asking them to be direct, to get to the issue. As far as historians know, the phrase was first used in a hunting context in the 1440s . Hunters would beat around a bush to lure out their prey in the bush.

9) To be behind the eight ball : If you’re behind the eight ball, you’re at a disadvantage, or in trouble. I’m really behind the eight ball; my project is due in two days and I haven’t even started it .

10) (To be stuck) between a rock and a hard place : When you’re between a rock and a hard place, you’re in the uncomfortable position of having to choose between two equally unappealing or difficult options. If, for example, you hate your job, but don’t want to quit because you’d lose your insurance, you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place.

11) Beyond the pale : When something is beyond the pale, it’s unacceptable or immoral. “Pale” has an obscure meaning —“a wooden stake, fence, or area within a certain jurisdiction.” This suggests that anything beyond the pale is uncivilized. His behavior has been beyond the pale lately.

Common English Idioms (Continued)

12) To bite the bullet : When you bite the bullet, you decide to do something unpleasant that you’ve been avoiding. I really don’t want to go to the DMV today, but I’ll bite the bullet and get it over with .

13) To break a leg : This is one of those common English idioms that’s super specific and, at first glance, completely nonsensical. It’s really only used to wish someone luck before they perform—a play, concert, etc. It’s thought that the theater community, being a bit superstitious, believed saying “good luck” was actually bad luck . Somehow, they landed on “break a leg” instead. Break a leg! I can’t wait to hear your new songs.

14) To break the ice : To break the ice is to ease the tension or awkwardness amongst people who’ve just met. Let’s play a game to break the ice .

Common English Idioms 50 Examples (Continued)

15) (To score) brownie points : Brownie points are imaginary, but they’re doled out when someone has done a good deed, or earned favor in the eyes of another. Personally, I earn my brownie points by offering to do the dishes whenever I’m a guest in someone’s home. The phrase is a common American idiom—it goes back to the youngest class of Girl Scouts, called Brownies.

16) By the skin of your teeth : I’m including this one because it’s one of those totally bizarre common English idioms. When you do something by the skin of your teeth, you’ve just barely managed to do it. The sitting senator won reelection by the skin of her teeth —she won by an extremely close margin. The idiom goes all the way back to the Book of Job in the Old Testament of the Bible.

17) Butterflies in my stomach : When you have butterflies in your stomach, you’re nervous. Nervy anticipation really does feel like butterflies flapping around in your belly. I always get butterflies in my stomach before I go on a long trip.

18) To bury the hatchet : When you make peace, settle a dispute or fight, or come to an agreement to end a conflict, you’ve buried the hatchet. The phrase has its roots in Native American custom : it was Iroquois tradition to bury their weapons—literally—in times of peace.

19) (To have) a chip on your shoulder : When someone has a chip on their shoulder, they’re angry or indignant because they believe they’ve been treated unfairly in the past. Gary’s had a chip on his shoulder ever since he was passed over for that promotion .

20) To get cold feet : If you get cold feet, you’ve lost the courage to do something. True story: I once convinced my dad to get a tattoo with me, but he got cold feet at the last moment and backed out.

21) (To quit something) cold turkey : To quit something cold turkey—or go cold turkey—is to stop doing something abruptly. It’s not quite known where the phrase comes from, but there are several compelling theories. One suggests that the withdrawal symptoms experienced when coming off certain drugs—goosebumps, chills— evoke images of a cold, raw turkey . I’m a bit of a coffee addict, and when I tried to quit cold turkey, I started to get nasty headaches.

22) Elephant in the room : The elephant in the room is a problem that everyone knows about but that no one wants to acknowledge. The fact that the politicians had flown on private jets to the conference on carbon emissions was the elephant in the room .

23) Grasping at straws : When someone grasps at straws, they’re attempting to do something that has a low probability of succeeding. I kept looking for the ring, but I was grasping at straws; deep down, I knew it was gone . The phrase comes from Thomas More , who wrote, “A drowning man will clutch at straws.” Here, “straws” probably refer to reeds growing in the water—not much use to that drowning man.

24) Hold your horses : This common English idiom means to be patient or wait. Hold your horses! I’m not ready to go yet.

25) Tongue in cheek : When you say something tongue in cheek, you’re being sarcastic, ironic, jokey, or otherwise unserious. The idiom’s roots are literal-ish: it’s thought that pushing one’s tongue into the cheek was a gesture used to indicate sly irony or humorous insincerity .

26) There are more ways than one to skin a cat : This common English idiom is brutal, but one that I find myself using often. It means that there is more than one way to accomplish something. For example: My doctor told me I need to lose some weight, but there are more ways than one to skin a cat. She said I could either change my diet, take up jogging, or begin lifting weights .

27) To think outside the box : When you think outside the box, you’re thinking in a creative, innovative, or unconventional way. The company prided itself on its ability to think outside the box, but in reality, it was just recycling a decades-old idea .

28) To strike while the iron is hot : It’s usually a good idea to strike when the iron is hot, which means to take advantage of an opportunity. Picture a blacksmith: they’ve got to shape the iron while it’s still hot, before it cools. We should strike while the iron is hot and make an offer before the price goes up.

29) To push the envelope : Pushing the envelope is approaching or going beyond the limits of what is possible. This common English idiom can have a positive connotation— The artist has been pushing the envelope in her recent work —or a negative— The unruly student was really pushing the envelope with his teacher .

30) Silver lining : A silver lining is a benefit or advantage that comes from a negative or difficult situation. Accidentally dropping my phone in the toilet had a silver lining: I stopped spending so much time on social media.

31) To move the goal posts : Moving the goal posts means changing the rules or expectations to advantage oneself. The administration said it was going to raise the minimum wage to $15/hour. But, now they’re saying that’s too high—they’re moving the goalposts!

Common English Idioms Examples (Continued)

32) To have skin in the game : If you have skin in the game, you’re personally invested (financially, emotionally, etc.) in its success. He kept telling me how I should be spending my money, but he has no skin in the game .

33) The ball is in (your, someone’s) court : When the ball is in someone’s court, it’s up to them to make the next move. The ball is in their court. I said my offer was final, so now they can either choose to accept or decline .

34) In the ballpark : When you’re in the ballpark, you’re approximately correct. As you can see, a number of common English idioms are sports-derived. My first guess wasn’t even in the ballpark—I was way off!

35) Like pulling teeth : When something is like pulling teeth, it’s extremely difficult to do because you—or someone else—doesn’t want to do it. Forcing myself to sit down and write is like pulling teeth sometimes .

36) To play it by ear : When you play something by ear, you’re doing it without plan; you’re improvising. The phrase comes from music: when musicians play something by ear, they’re playing without reading sheet music. When I travel to a new place, I don’t like to make an itinerary. I prefer to play it by ear .

37) (To jump, get, or be) on the bandwagon : When you jump on a bandwagon, you begin to participate in a popular activity or trend. This common American idiom has a bit of a negative aftertaste: it suggests doing something just because everyone else is. I urged my friends not to jump on the TikTok bandwagon .

38) Six of one, half dozen of the other : When two choices are six of one, half dozen of the other, they will both result in the same outcome. Whether we take an Uber or drive ourselves is six of one, half dozen of the other—we’re going to be sitting in traffic for a while.

39) To pass the buck : To pass the buck is to shift the responsibility or blame to someone else. It’s usually used in a pejorative way. For example: Don’t try to pass the buck; paying the electric bill was your responsibility, not mine .

40) To shoot the breeze : Shooting the breeze is chatting, making small talk, conversing aimlessly without a serious subject. The two old friends sat on the porch and shot the breeze .

41) To spill the beans : If you’ve spilled the beans, you’ve revealed a secret. One origin story goes back to ancient Greece , where votes were cast using white or black beans. If someone spilled the beans, onlookers could easily figure out who’d won the election. I was planning a surprise party for my brother, but my parents spilled the beans .

42) To be a piece of cake : When something is a piece of cake, it’s super easy. The homework assignment was a piece of cake .

What is an Idiom? (Continued)

43) To take a rain check : To take a rain check is to politely decline an invitation, with the implication that you might accept later. Can we take a rain check on that? I’m busy this week .

44) To get something off one’s chest : When you get something off your chest, you publicly admit to something that’d been worrying you or making you feel guilty. Wow, it feels great to get that off my chest .

45) (To feel) under the weather : When you feel under the weather, you’re sick, not feeling well. I can’t come in to work today; I’m feeling under the weather .

46) To not see the wood for the trees : If you don’t see the wood for the trees, you’re failing to assess the whole situation or problem because you’re too focused on minute details. He was so focused on the design of the wallpaper, but the entire house was about to crumble—he couldn’t see the wood for the trees .

47) Once in a blue moon : When something happens once in a blue moon, it happens rarely. This is a once-in-a-blue-moon opportunity!

48) To put your foot in your mouth : When you put your foot in your mouth, you say something embarrassing, inappropriate, or tactless. I shouldn’t have mentioned that—I really put my foot in my mouth .

49) Rule of thumb : A rule of thumb is a heuristic, or approximate guide for doing something. For example: my partner and I just adopted a kitten, and the vet told us, as a rule of thumb, to expect the kitten to start eating solid food by the age of 5 weeks. That might not always happen, but it’s a good general guideline.

50) To take (someone’s advice) with a grain of salt : This is one of those common English idioms that has a not-so-clear backstory . It means to be skeptical because the information one is getting could be faulty or dubious. She always exaggerates—take what she says with a grain of salt .

Common English Idioms 50 Examples – Additional Resources:

If you enjoyed our list of the 50 idioms high school students must know, you may also wish to check out the following College Transitions blogs:

• 250 SAT Vocab Words
• 130 GRE Words You Must Know
• 20 Rhetorical Devices High School Students Should Know
• 10 Ways to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills
• High School Success

Dane Gebauer

Dane Gebauer is a writer and teacher living in Miami, FL. He received his MFA in fiction from Columbia University, and his writing has appeared in Complex Magazine and Sinking City Review .

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What is an Idiom: A Comprehensive Guide to Unraveling Tricky Phrases

Did you know that many common idioms in English have intriguing origins deeply rooted in history? Take, for example, the phrase 'raining cats and dogs,' which we often use to describe a heavy rainstorm. Its origin is believed to trace back to the 17th century when houses had thatched roofs. During heavy rains, animals seeking shelter, such as cats and dogs, would fall from the roof, giving the impression that it was literally raining them. This peculiar image stuck in people's minds, and the phrase 'raining cats and dogs' became a colorful way to describe a torrential downpour. This fascinating connection between idioms and historical events adds a layer of intrigue to our language, making it not only a means of communication but also a gateway to unraveling the captivating tales behind everyday expressions.

What Is an Idiom: Short Description

In this article, our essay writers online will explore a long list of idioms and their meanings. We'll also take a close look at their different types. So, whether you have a passion for language or simply find yourself curious about how we communicate, we invite you to select your favorite example of an idiom as we uncover the fascinating array of expressions that never cease to amaze and inspire us.

What Is an Idiom: Insight into Figurative Language

The word 'idiom' originates from the Greek word 'idios,' which denotes 'one's own' or 'private.' It is like a hidden treasure chest of language, filled with colorful expressions that add spice and creativity to our everyday conversations. It's a phrase or a group of words that doesn't have a literal meaning but is instead used to convey a figurative or symbolic message. These expressions are unique cultural gems that reflect the rich tapestry of a language.

Imagine someone saying, 'It's raining cats and dogs!' instead of simply stating that it's raining heavily. This peculiar expression captures the intensity of the rain in a whimsical and memorable way. Another fascinating phrase is 'to kick the bucket,' which means to die. Although it might sound strange, this phrase dates back to medieval times when people would stand on buckets to hang themselves.

Fun fact: There are an estimated 25,000 examples of these expressions in the English language, showcasing the incredible variety and creativity that exists within our linguistic heritage. From 'a piece of cake' to 'raining cats and dogs,' idioms make our language more vivid, engaging, and downright fun!

Types of Idioms: An In-Depth Look at Different Categories

Idioms are fascinating examples of figurative language that add color and depth to our conversations and writing. They are expressions that have a figurative meaning that is different from their literal interpretation. In this section, our coursework writing service will explore different categories of idioms and provide examples for each type.

Pure idioms are expressions that have a figurative meaning that cannot be deduced from the individual words used. These idiomatic expressions are so deeply embedded in the language and culture that native speakers inherently understand their meaning.

For example:

• 'Break a leg' means 'good luck' in the performing arts industry.
• 'Bite the bullet' means to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage.

Binomial Idiom

They are idiomatic expressions that consist of two words or phrases linked by a conjunction such as 'and' or 'or.' These phrases are commonly used in day-to-day conversations to convey messages more vividly.

• 'Back and forth' means to move in a backward and forward motion.
• 'Safe and sound' means to be in a state of safety and without harm.

Partial Idiom

They are expressions that consist of one or more words that are idiomatic, while the rest of the phrase or sentence has a literal meaning. Studying idioms definition and examples is crucial as they often rely on context and cultural knowledge to be correctly understood.

• 'In a pickle' means to be in a difficult or troublesome situation.
• 'Under the weather' means to be feeling unwell or sick.

Prepositional Idiom

They are expressions that consist of a preposition followed by a noun or noun phrase, often having a figurative meaning that cannot be inferred from the individual words used.

• 'On cloud nine' means to be extremely happy or elated.
• 'In the doghouse' means to be in trouble or disfavored.

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Sample Essay with Idioms 

Here's an essay example brimming with idioms to illustrate how seamlessly they can be incorporated into the context of your narrative, enhancing its vividness and beauty.

Why Do We Use Idioms: Exploring the Purpose and Benefits

Why do we use idioms in writing? In short, they add life to your writing. These colorful phrases polish your English by infusing it with creativity, depth, and personality. They are indispensable tools for enhancing your expression. Here are some benefits they offer:

• Expressing Abstract or Complex Ideas

Idioms provide a shortcut to communicate ideas that may be challenging to express directly. In other words, they serve as a linguistic bridge, allowing us to convey nuanced meanings in a succinct and impactful way. Such transition sentences enhance our ability to convey complex thoughts effortlessly.

For example, the expression 'the ball is in your court' is commonly used to indicate that it is someone else's turn to take action or make a decision. While the literal meaning may seem unrelated, this idiomatic expression creates a smooth transition that conveys the idea of responsibility or decision-making being shifted to another person. This idiomatic phrase exemplifies how they contribute to making language richer and more expressive. In essence, they serve as linguistic connectors that enhance our ability to communicate effectively.

• Adding Color and Creativity to Language

They add color and creativity to language, making it more engaging and enjoyable. Through their unusual or imaginative manner, they can captivate listeners or readers. These phrases often have a poetic quality and can evoke emotions or create a sense of imagery.

For instance, the idiom in English, 'barking up the wrong tree,' is used to suggest that someone is pursuing the wrong course of action or directing their efforts toward an unproductive endeavor. The image of a barking dog at the base of the wrong tree creates a memorable and vivid expression of this concept.

• Enhancing Cultural Understanding

Idioms are deeply rooted in culture, and understanding them can provide insights into a community's values, beliefs, and history. Metaphors and analogies embedded in idiomatic expressions often reflect the cultural context in which they originate, including references to historical events, folklore, or specific traditions.

By studying these figures of speech from different cultures, we gain a deeper understanding of the nuances and subtleties of language. This understanding can foster cross-cultural appreciation and encourage communication between people from different backgrounds.

• Establishing Rapport and Camaraderie

Using idioms in conversation can help establish rapport and camaraderie with others. When two people share an understanding of idiomatic expressions, it creates a sense of connection and mutual understanding. When curious about 'what is an idiom?', remember that it can also serve as a conversation starter or icebreaker, sparking curiosity and engagement.

Furthermore, such sayings can be humorous, and sharing a funny idiom or using one in a lighthearted manner can foster a sense of camaraderie and lighten the mood in a conversation.

How Are Idioms Structured: Exploring the Anatomy of Expressive Phrases

Idioms are expressions or phrases that have figurative meanings that are different from the literal meanings of the individual words. They often reflect the cultural and linguistic nuances of a specific region. While their structure can vary, they typically follow certain patterns or formats within a language or region.

For example, in some regions of the United States, the phrase 'raining cats and dogs' is commonly used to describe heavy rain. The structure of this expression follows a pattern of combining two unrelated objects (cats and dogs) to convey a specific meaning (heavy rain).

However, they can also have unique structures that are specific to a particular region, as mentioned in the previous text. Here's another example:

In the Australian Outback, the idiom 'flat out like a lizard drinking' is used to describe someone who is extremely busy or working very hard. The structure of it includes the comparison of being 'flat out' (meaning very busy) to a lizard drinking (depicting a lizard lying flat on the ground while drinking water).

So, while these figures of speech may have some general patterns in their structure within a language or region, they can also have unique and peculiar structures that reflect the specific cultural context in which they are used.

In the meantime, if you find yourself still struggling with writing in AMA citation format , allow us to take care of the challenging aspects while you delve deeper into exploring idioms!

Tips on Using Idioms

Using idioms in writing can add depth and color to your language. Here are some tips to help you effectively incorporate such phrases into your conversations and writing:

Understand Idiomatic Variations

Idioms can vary in their wording and usage across different regions and cultures. So, next time you wonder how to title an essay with an idiom, be aware of these variations to ensure accurate communication. Some idiomatic expressions may have similar meanings but different phrasing. For example, in American English, the phrase 'kick the bucket' means to die, while in British English, 'pop your clogs' is equivalent.

To broaden your understanding of idiomatic variations, you can explore online resources and language forums or consult native English speakers of different dialects. Understanding these variations will help you communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.

Blend Idioms with Context

While these figures of speech can be powerful tools for expression, it's crucial to use them appropriately in the context. Consider the following when using them:

• Familiarity : Make sure the person or audience you are communicating with is familiar with the idiom you are using. If they don't understand the phrase, it may confuse or alienate them.
• Relevance : Ensure that the saying you choose is suitable for the situation or topic at hand. Using it that doesn't fit the context may create confusion or make your language sound forced.
• Tone : Pay attention to the tone of your communication. Some idioms may be more casual or informal, while others may be more formal. Use those that align with the tone you want to convey.

For example, if you're writing an academic essay, it's best to avoid colloquial idioms and instead focus on using precise and formal language appropriate for the context.

Create Your Own Idioms

Idioms are not set in stone. Feel free to get creative and come up with your own idiomatic expressions. By creating your own sayings, you can add a personal touch to your language and enhance your ability to express unique thoughts or emotions. Just make sure that your phrases are clear and understandable to your intended audience.

For example, instead of saying, 'I'm feeling tired,' you could create your own expression by saying, 'I'm running on fumes.' This expression conveys the idea of extreme fatigue in a more vivid and memorable way.

How to Use Idiom in Essay

When curious about how to start an essay with an idiom, it is important to strike a balance between its appropriate usage and the overall clarity and coherence of your writing. Carefully consider the purpose and target audience of your essay to ensure that idioms enhance rather than hinder your message.

Purposes of Using Idioms in an Essay:

• Expressive Language : Idioms can add color, vividness, and expressiveness to your writing. They help you convey complex ideas or emotions in a concise and impactful manner, making your essay more engaging and memorable.
• Cultural Relevance : They are deeply rooted in a specific language and culture. Including them in your essay can demonstrate your understanding of cultural nuances and enrich your writing, especially when discussing topics related to traditions, customs, or local experiences.
• Enhancing Creativity : They can infuse creativity into your writing by using figurative language. They provide an opportunity to think outside the box and craft imaginative descriptions, allowing your essay to stand out and captivate the reader's attention.
• Communicating Familiarity : They are often used in everyday speech, and incorporating them into your essay can create a sense of familiarity and relatability with your audience. This can help establish a connection and make your writing more approachable.
• Adding Depth and Nuance : These sayings carry underlying meanings that extend beyond their literal interpretations. By utilizing idioms, you can add depth and nuance to your arguments or analysis, contributing to a more sophisticated and nuanced essay.
• Engaging and Memorable : They can make your essay more interesting and memorable by providing distinct and colorful language.
• Cultural Understanding : Utilizing them shows your familiarity with the language and culture, highlighting your appreciation for diverse expressions and perspectives.
• Expressive Communication : They express complex ideas succinctly, allowing for more effective communication of your thoughts and arguments.
• Misinterpretation : Many idioms can be ambiguous and subject to misinterpretation, especially if the reader is unfamiliar with them. This may lead to confusion or a loss of clarity in your essay.
• Inappropriate Usage : Some of them may not be suitable for formal writing or academic contexts. Improper usage can undermine the credibility and professionalism of your essay.
• Language Barriers : Idioms tend to rely heavily on the cultural and linguistic context in which they are used. If your essay targets an international audience, these sayings may pose a barrier to understanding and hinder effective communication.
• Overuse and Clutter : Excessive or forced use of them can clutter your writing, making it sound contrived or distracting the reader from the main points you are trying to convey.

Idioms Examples: Exploring Their Symbolic Meaning

Below, you'll find an exciting list of idioms and their meanings. Brace yourself for a linguistic adventure like no other!

• 'The apple of my eye' - Someone or something cherished or loved deeply. Example: In the movie 'The Lion King,' Mufasa tells Simba, 'You are the apple of my eye, Simba.'
• 'When pigs fly' - Something that is highly unlikely or improbable. Example: In the movie 'Shrek,' Donkey says, 'Yeah, right! Like that's ever gonna happen! When pigs fly!'
• 'Bend over backward' - Making a great effort to accommodate or help someone. Example: In the TV show 'Friends,' Joey says, 'I bent over backward to be nice to her, and she didn't even appreciate it!'
• 'Cold feet' - Feeling nervous or having second thoughts about a decision or commitment. Example: In the movie 'Runaway Bride,' Maggie says, 'I'm getting cold feet. I don't think I can go through with the wedding.'
• 'Like a fish out of water' - Feeling uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation. Example: In the movie 'The Little Mermaid,' Ariel says, 'I feel like a fish out of water in this human world.'
• 'Walking on eggshells' - Being very cautious or careful about what you say or do to avoid upsetting someone. Example: In the TV show 'The Big Bang Theory,' Sheldon tells Leonard, 'Around Penny, we must tread lightly, like walking on eggshells.'
• 'The straw that broke the camel's back' - The final event or problem that causes a situation to become unbearable or unmanageable. Example: In the movie 'Spider-Man 3,' Peter Parker says, 'The fact that you betrayed me... that's the straw that broke the camel's back.'
• 'In the heat of the moment' - Acting impulsively or without thinking due to strong emotions. Example: In the movie 'Dirty Dancing,' Johnny says, 'I didn't spend all this time dancing with Penny in the kitchen just to get in trouble with the likes of you. This isn't the way it's supposed to be. I'm sorry, but I can't do this anymore.'
• 'The early bird catches the worm' - Taking action or being prepared ahead of time leads to success. Example: In the movie 'Wall Street,' Gordon Gekko says, 'The most valuable commodity I know of is information. Wouldn't you agree? The early bird catches the worm, Gordon.'
• 'Kill two birds with one stone' - Accomplishing two things at once. Example: In the movie 'Ocean's Eleven,' Rusty says, 'We can kill two birds with one stone. In exactly one week, we rob it.'
• 'Actions speak louder than words' - What someone does is more significant than what they say. Example: In the movie 'The Dark Knight,' Batman says, 'Sometimes the truth isn't good enough. Sometimes people deserve more. Sometimes people deserve to have their faith rewarded... Batman has no limits!'
• 'All bark and no bite' - Someone who talks tough but doesn't follow through with their threats. Example: In the TV show 'Breaking Bad,' Jesse Pinkman says, 'You want me to handle it? I'll handle it. All bark, no bite, man.'
• 'Don't judge a book by its cover' - Not forming an opinion based solely on appearance. Example: In the movie 'Zootopia,' Judy Hopps says, 'You know, I think life's a little bit messy. We all make mistakes. No matter what type of animal you are, change starts with you. We gotta try.'
• 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do' - Adopting the customs or behavior of the people in a particular place. Example: In the movie 'Eat Pray Love,' Richard from Texas says, 'You want to get to the castle, you've got to swim the moat. You want the prize; you've got to build the bridge. And if that bridge ain't long enough, you build it longer.'
• 'Every cloud has a silver lining' - There is something positive or hopeful in every difficult situation. Example: In the movie 'The Pursuit of Happyness,' Chris Gardner says, 'The world is your oyster. It's up to you to find the pearls.'
• 'Let the cat out of the bag' - Accidentally revealing a secret. Example: In the movie 'The Hangover,' Alan says, 'You probably get this a lot. This isn't the real Caesar's Palace, is it? What do you mean? Did, uh, did Caesar live here? No. I didn't think so.'
• 'Putting all your eggs in one basket' - Relying heavily on a single thing or course of action. Example: In the movie 'Apollo 13,' Gene Kranz says, 'I want you all to forget the flight plan. From this moment on, we are improvising a new mission: How do we get our people home?'
• 'The calm before the storm' - A peaceful period before a difficult or turbulent situation occurs. Example: In the movie 'The Fellowship of the Ring,' Gandalf says, 'There is a fell voice on the air, the enemy is moving. We have to draw his eye away from Frodo and Sam.'
• 'Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater' - Not discarding something valuable while getting rid of the undesirable parts. Example: In the movie 'The Sound of Music,' Maria says, 'Darling, haven't you ever heard of a delightful little thing called boarding school?'
• 'The pot calling the kettle black' - Criticizing someone for a fault that you also possess. Example: In the TV show 'The Office,' Dwight says, 'Michael, you are the master of saying things that you think are harmless but that people find insulting or offensive.'

In conclusion, idioms are an integral part of language that add color, depth, and cultural richness to our communication. Understanding them allows us to navigate the intricacies of figurative language, appreciating the unique expressions that convey meaning beyond the literal. Whether we 'break a leg' or 'let the cat out of the bag,' idiom examples encapsulate the beauty and creativity of human expression, reminding us of the power and versatility of language itself.

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When Are Idioms Used?

What are the most popular idioms, related articles.

Essay Idioms: Idioms for Argumentative Essay

Essay Idioms PDF! Below is the list of 50 idioms for argumentative essays, learn a very useful list of idioms for essays with meaning and examples. Download this list of idioms for the essay in an Infographic PDF.

Table of Contents

Essay Idioms in English

List of essay idioms.

Here are some more idioms that can be used in essays:

• A picture is worth a thousand words
• All’s fair in love and war
• Barking up the wrong tree
• Burning the midnight oil
• Cutting corners
• Devil’s advocate
• Don’t judge a book by its cover
• Every cloud has a silver lining
• Fit as a fiddle
• Get the ball rolling
• Hard to swallow
• In a nutshell
• Jump the gun
• Keep your chin up
• Let the cat out of the bag
• Make a long story short
• No pain, no gain
• On the same page
• Practice makes perfect
• Rain on someone’s parade
• Sink or swim
• Time flies when you’re having fun
• Variety is the spice of life
• When in Rome, do as the Romans do
• You can’t judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree.
• Actions speak louder than words
• All bark and no bite
• Beat around the bush
• Better late than never
• Bite the bullet
• Break a leg
• Burn bridges
• By the skin of your teeth
• Cry over spilt milk
• Don’t count your chickens before they hatch
• Elephant in the room
• Face the music
• Give the benefit of the doubt
• Hit the nail on the head
• Ignorance is bliss
• Jump through hoops
• Kill two birds with one stone
• Let sleeping dogs lie
• Misery loves company
• On thin ice
• Penny for your thoughts
• Put all your eggs in one basket
• Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Idioms For Essay Conclusion

Here are some idioms that can be used to conclude an essay:

• All things considered
• At the end of the day
• In conclusion
• To put it simply
• To wrap it up
• On the whole
• By and large
• To cut a long story short
• In the final analysis
• In the grand scheme of things
• In the long run
• Lastly but not least
• To draw a conclusion

Idioms for Argumentative Essay

Here are some idioms that can be used in an argumentative essay:

• To be up in arms about
• To play devil’s advocate
• To fight tooth and nail
• To be a double-edged sword
• To hit the nail on the head
• To be a hot-button issue
• To be a bone of contention
• To stir up a hornet’s nest
• To get to the heart of the matter
• To be in someone’s corner
• To have a dog in the fight
• To hold one’s ground
• To make a case for
• To put one’s foot down
• To stand one’s ground
• To throw down the gauntlet
• To turn the tables
• To weigh the pros and cons
• To see both sides of the coin
• To take a firm stance

Essay Idioms With Meaning and Example Sentences

Below is the list of essay idioms in English:

REST/SIT ON ONE’S LAURELS

Meaning: To be satisfied with one’s achievements

• He retired at the peak of his career and is resting on his laurels.

RISE TO THE OCCASION

Meaning: To be able to do what is required in a crisis

• We should be ready to rise to every occasion.

Meaning: An easy way

• There is no royal road to success.

RUN SHORT OF

Meaning: To be in insufficient supply

• We are running short of fuel.

SAFE AND SOUND

Meaning: Without suffering any loss

• They reached home safe and sound.

SAVE SOMETHING FOR A RAINY DAY

Meaning: Save something for a time of crisis

• Wise persons save something for a rainy day.

Meaning: Free from harm or penalty

• The court let him off scot-free.

SEE EYE TO EYE

Meaning: Agree fully

• Both the husband and the wife see eye to eye in this matter.

SEE HOW THE LAND LIES

Meaning: To find out about a situation

• Let me see how the land lies before we do anything.

SET / PUT IN MOTION

Meaning: To start a process

• Her anger set in motion the events that led to her downfall.

Meaning: To let someone free

• He opened the cage and set the birds free.

SET ONE’S FACE AGAINST

Meaning: To oppose

• Her father set his face Against her becoming an actress.

Meaning: In good order

• well-arranged, neat and clean)

SHOW THE WHITE FEATHER

Meaning: Show cowardice

• The brave never show the white feather in the battlefield.

SIT / BE ON THE FENCE

Meaning: To be neutral

• The judge should always sit on the fence.

Meaning: Polite talk about very unimportant matters

• I do not like to indulge in small talk.

SMELL A RAT

Meaning: To have the feeling that something is bad or wrong

• The thief smells a rat and ran away.

Meaning: A long way

• At is so far to go.

Meaning: As far as

• Try to avoid him, so far as I know him, he is not a good boy.

SOUR GRAPES

Meaning: Fake dislike for something one cannot have

• The poor man said that he did not need money, but that was just sour grapes.

SPEAK ONE’S MIND

Meaning: Express one’s views, feelings, and thoughts

• Everyone should be free to speak his mind

SPEAK VOLUMES

Meaning: To convey a great deal of meaning without using words

• She said nothing but her face spoke volumes.

SPICK AND SPAN

Meaning: Neat and clean, brand new

• She always keeps her house spick and span.

SPLIT HAIRS

Meaning: To make trivial distinctions

• Let us do not split hairs, I will do it as your wish.

SPREAD LIKE WILDFIRE

Meaning: Spread rapidly

• The news of his success spread like wildfire.

STAND ON CEREMONY

Meaning: To behave in a formal way

• Please sit down and make yourself comfortable, do not stand on ceremony here.

STEAL A MARCH ON

Meaning: To gain an advantage

• Do not let him steal a march on you.

STORM IN A TEACUP

Meaning: A big clash on a small matter

• Do not worry about the two ladies quarreling, it is just a storm in a teacup.

STRIKE WHILE THE IRON IS HOT

Meaning: To do something at a proper moment

• Wise people always strike while the iron is hot.

SUIT SOMEBODY’S BOOK

Meaning: To fit well into someone’s plans

• We need a male teacher, he suits our book.

TAKE A FANCY TO

Meaning: Begin to love

• He has taken a fancy to that beautiful girl.

TAKE A LEAF FROM/OUT OF SOMEBODY’S BOOK

Meaning: To imitate, to follow someone’s example

• Our country should take a leaf from Japan’s book.

TAKE A LEAP IN THE DARK

Meaning: To do something without worrying about the results

• To start such a big business without experience is like to take leap in the dark.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SOMETHING/SOMEBODY

Meaning: To make use of something well

• We took full advantage of the hotel facilities.

TAKE CARE OF

Meaning: To look after

• I take good care of my car.

TAKE FRENCH LEAVE

Meaning: To take time away from your job without asking for permission

• Her boss was angry at her for taking French leave.

Meaning: Gather courage

• Do not get discouraged, just take heart to face the music.

TAKE IT ILL

Meaning: Get offended

• She will take it ill if you refuse to lend her problem.

TAKE ONE’S TIME

Meaning: To use as much time as you need without hurrying

• The judge took his time to decide the case.

TAKE PAINS TO DO SOMETHING/TAKE PAINS WITH/OVER SOMETHING

Meaning: Make a special effort to do something

• Elina takes great pains to do his work.

TAKE SOMETHING/SOMEBODY BY STORM

Meaning: To be very successful in a particular place or with a group of people

• This book has taken the students by storm.

TAKE SOMETHING INTO ACCOUNT/TAKE ACCOUNT OF SOMETHING

Meaning: To consider particular facts while making a decision about something

• The government should take into account the pitiable condition of the poor.

TAKE THE BULL ‘BY THE HORNS

Meaning: To tackle the difficulties boldly

• Brave people always take the bull by the horns.

TAKE TO HEART

Meaning: Feel sad

• He took the death of his mother to heart.

TAKE TO ONE’S HEELS / SHOW A CLEAN PAIR OF HEELS

Meaning: Run away

• Brave warriors never take to their heels from the battlefield.

TAKE TO TASK

Meaning: Rebuke

• The principal took the peon to task for his laziness.

TAKE WITH A GRAIN/PINCH OF SALT

Meaning: To receive with a little doubt

• Take his story with a grain of salt as he is a liar through and through.

Meaning: To talk about your work

• His habit of talking shop is boring for others.

THE MAN IN THE STREET

Meaning: An ordinary man

• The man in the street takes no interest in politics.

THE RED CARPET TREATMENT/WELCOME

Meaning: Great respect and honor given to the guests

• The minister was given a red-carpet welcome when he visited the city.

Must Learn: List of Interesting Idioms & Phrases

Idioms Used in Essays – Infographic

Download the PDF of this list of Idioms for Essays below:

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Last updated on April 20th, 2023 at 11:24 am

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What is an idiom in English? Idiom definition, types, and examples

Imagine a world where people ‘bite the bullet,’ ‘kick the bucket,’ and ‘spill the beans’ on a daily basis. Sounds peculiar, doesn’t it?

In the English language, these expressions are not just a fanciful way to describe events, but rather an essential part of daily communication.

Most native English speakers use these kinds of phrases in everyday speech without realizing how strange they might sound to someone who is not fluent in English.

So, let’s take a look at what an idiom is , what English idioms mean , and how this vocabulary is used in different ways. We also have plenty of idiom examples along the way!

What is an idiom? A simple definition

An idiom is a figurative expression (group of words) that cannot be understood from the literal meanings of its individual words.

When we say that someone is ‘a pain in the neck’, for example, it has nothing to do with physical pain or any part of the body. It actually just means that they are annoying or irritating.

The word ‘idiom’ originates from the ancient Greek word ‘idioma,’ which means ‘peculiar phrasing’.

It’s estimated that there are over 10,000 idioms in the English language, although other estimates put this number as high as 25,000 if you include phrasal verbs.

Idioms are often associated with literary devices such as similes, metaphors, metonymy, and synecdoche, among others.

They can also take the form of euphemisms, where a direct or unsuitable expression is replaced with a more subtle one. For instance, ‘kick the bucket’ is a euphemism for dying , while ‘have a bun in the oven’ refers to being pregnant.

What do idioms mean?

Idioms have meanings that are understood by native English speakers, but may not be immediately clear to non-native speakers due to their figurative nature.

Their meanings often rely on cultural context and cannot be deduced from their individual words. For example, the idiom ‘green-eyed monster’ refers to jealousy, a meaning that is not obvious from its individual words.

There are many idioms in other languages that may sound strange when translated into English, such as ‘avoir le cafard’ in French or ‘dar en el clavo’ in Spanish.

As an English learner , idioms present a significant challenge because they cannot be interpreted literally, but at the same time, it’s not always obvious when they are being used. You must learn the meaning of each idiom individually in order to understand what a person is saying. An idiom dictionary can help you discover and understand these unusual phrases.

Language is constantly evolving, and this means new idioms being created as well as older ones sometimes falling out of usage.

Many idiomatic expressions have stood the test of time, though; there are many phrases with their origin in the Bible that we still use today, as well as hundreds of idioms inspired by Shakespeare .

Examples of common idioms in English

We have a full page of common idioms for you to discover, but here are some of the most popular:

It’s important to note that some idioms are only common in a specific region of the UK, the US, or another English-speaking country. Sometimes, even though two people are speaking the same language, they can have trouble understanding one another!

We have over 100 pages about idioms on our site, each one covering a different topic with definitions and examples of each idiom mentioned. Take a look at those that interest you below.

Understanding idioms vs metaphors: What’s the difference and how should you use them?

Interesting head and hair idioms for you to use in English

Exploring English face idioms about eyes, ears, lips, nose, mouth & more

Walking and running idioms: Stride through these active sayings

Truth and lie idioms: Uncover deceptive and honest expressions in English

Idioms vs Proverbs vs Adages: What’s the difference and how do we use them correctly?

Success idioms: Explore expressions to celebrate a triumph or victory

Laugh idioms and sayings: Get ready for giggles galore

25 Reading idioms about books and more, with explanations and examples

Smoke idioms: clear the air with these idioms about smoke

Decision idioms about choosing between different options

Action and adventure idioms: Unleash these sayings in your vocabulary

Flower idioms: Vibrant floral idioms to use everyday, with examples

House idioms: Versatile expressions about homes and houses

26 Bag idioms: Explore a variety of expressions about bags

36 Enlightening idioms about knowledge, wisdom, and thinking

Baseball idioms: The best baseball sayings to use in everyday conversation

Positive idioms: Encouraging and optimistic expressions to brighten your day

American idioms: Discover popular idioms from the USA

Fashion & clothes idioms: Explore these fun and stylish sayings

Idioms vs proverbs.

While idioms and proverbs may share some common characteristics, they are not the same. Proverbs are sayings that convey advice or wisdom in a figurative manner, whereas idioms don’t necessarily offer advice.

An example of an idiom is ‘break a leg,’ which offers good luck, while a proverb is ‘actions speak louder than words,’ suggesting that what someone does is more important than what they say.

That said, both idioms and proverbs are classed as figurative language expressions that convey a deeper meaning beyond their literal interpretation. We explore more about idioms vs proverbs here.

Are proverbs a type of idiom?

A proverb that is idiomatic in nature can be classed as an idiom. That is to say, its meaning cannot be deduced from the individual words alone.

Most proverbs fall into this category, but some have a more literal meaning and so are not classed as idioms.

Idioms vs metaphors vs similes

Metaphors and similes are figurative expressions that compare two things, whether directly or indirectly. Examples are ‘as clear as mud’ and ‘time is money’.

As with proverbs, similes and metaphors are sometimes idiomatic in nature, but sometimes not. Read our full guide to idioms vs metaphors to learn more about the similarities and differences between these expressions.

Types of idiom in English

Having understood idioms and their meanings, we can examine their anatomy by investigating different types of idioms, such as pure, binomial, and partial idioms.

By understanding the different types of figurative language used in English, you can get better at recognizing these and other idiomatic expressions in use.

Pure idioms

Pure idioms are expressions that have a figurative meaning that cannot be inferred from the individual words used. The original meaning of pure idioms has been lost to the point where the phrase can no longer be interpreted logically.

In other words, pure idioms require knowledge of the entire expression in order to be understood.

Most of the idiom examples listed above fall into this category.

Binomial idioms

Binomial idioms are phrases consisting of two words joined by a conjunction (usually ‘and’ or ‘or’), used to convey a single concept.

These idiom examples are commonly used in everyday language to convey specific meanings.

Partial Idioms

Partial idioms are abbreviated forms of regular idioms. The phrases are so well-known that a person can use part of it to refer to the whole meaning.

These can be even more confusing for non-native speakers, because you are expected to associate the fragment with the whole and then know the meaning! Fortunately, this type of idiom is not too common.

Here are some examples of partial idioms, along with the full idiom they originate from:

Prepositional idioms

Prepositional idioms, also called phrasal verbs or verb phrases, generally consist of a verb and one or more prepositions.

As with the other types of idiom we have discussed, the phrase’s literal meaning cannot be determined just from looking at it.

Here are some examples of prepositional idioms and their meanings:

Using idioms in writing

Idioms can make writing more expressive and colorful and also impart character and style.

However, they should be used wisely because they tend to convey an informal tone. Overuse of certain idioms can result in clichés and uninspiring writing.

Improper use of idioms, particularly prepositional idioms, can also lead to miscommunication.

If in doubt, try to convey your message without using idiomatic phrases; especially if your audience includes non-native English speakers.

The challenges of translating idioms

Translation of idioms presents a challenge because these expressions cannot be translated word-for-word. Additionally, they are often specific to the culture they come from and don’t have an idiomatic equivalent in the other language.

To make sure they translate idioms correctly, translators have to understand the culture where the idiom comes from. They also try to find phrases in the language they’re translating to that have the same or similar meanings. This way, they can keep the original meaning of the idiom while making sure it makes sense in the new language.

Idioms are an essential and colorful aspect of language, adding depth, creativity, and cultural richness to our communication.

However, they present challenges to English language learners who are unfamiliar with this peculiar phraseology. The idea of having to learn the meaning of 10,000 individual expressions is quite daunting, but an idiom dictionary can help.

Embrace the vibrant world of idioms and let them inspire your speech and writing, but be careful of overusing them or using them in inappropriate contexts.

What is an example of an idiom?

‘Kill two birds with one stone’ is an example of an idiom, meaning to achieve two things with one action. Idioms are commonly used in everyday English to express a concept or idea in a concise way.

What does idiom literally mean?

An idiom is a phrase with a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning. The word ‘idiom’ comes from the Greek word ‘idioma’, which means ‘peculiar phrasing’.

What is the difference between an idiom and a proverb?

An idiom is a figurative expression with a meaning that cannot be understood from its individual words, while a proverb is a short saying that conveys wisdom or advice. Proverbs can be classed as idioms, but not all idioms are proverbs.

Can idioms be translated word-for-word?

No, idioms cannot be translated word-for-word, as their meanings are not always clear from the individual words used and require knowledge of the entire expression and cultural context.

Why do we use idioms?

Idioms are an important part of how we communicate. These phrases have specific meanings that can’t be conveyed in other words, and they add dynamism and character to what we say.

50 Most Common English Idioms and Phrases (With Examples)

You are looking to take your English skills to another level?

English idioms and phrases are the way to do it.

By combining words that have completely different individual meanings, we get idioms.

English idioms are extremely common in everyday conversation and, therefore, essential for language progression.

"An idiom (also called idiomatic expression) is an expression, word, or phrase that has a figurative meaning..."

Learning new words is not sufficient to become a fluent English speaker but idioms and proverbs can truly boost your knowledge.

In the following lines, you will find some of the most common English idioms with their meanings and sentences:

1. A hard nut to crack

Explanation: usually a person who is very difficult to deal with

Example: I gave my best to be friendly with her, but she is simply a hard nut to crack.

2. All ears

Explanation: very concentrated or keen to listen to the other person who has your full attention.

Example: Children are all ears when the teacher tells them fairytales.

3. A picture is worth a thousand words

Explanation: It’s better to show than to tell; illustration conveys a stronger message than words.

Example: Such a beautiful portrait of a little girl represents how a picture is worth a thousand words. 

4. A piece of cake

Explanation: something easily done, simple task, or work.

Example: Anne said the test would be difficult, but it was a piece of cake. I’ll pass with no problem at all.

5. Better late than never

Explanation: It’s better to arrive late than not to come at all.

Example: We’ve been waiting for you for three hours, but better late than never. 

6. Born with a silver spoon in mouth

Explanation: Someone who is born in a very wealthy family.

Example: He does not need this job as much as I do; he is born with a silver spoon in his mouth. 

7. Bread and butter

Explanation: earnings of a person; indicate when a person earns for a living.

Example: You have to earn your own bread and butter. 

8. Break the ice

Explanation: to try to become friends with someone; to make a start of something.

Example: It’s always easiest to break the ice after I’ve had a few drinks.

9. Break a leg

Explanation: Good luck, best wishes.

Example: You have a test tomorrow? Break a leg!

10. Can judge a book by its cover

Explanation: you can’t judge something just by its appearance.

Example: The candidate doesn’t look very promising, but you can't judge a book by its cover. 

11. Chasing rainbows

Explanation: to follow your dreams, trying to do something that can’t be achieved.

Example: I understand you want to be a famous singer, but don’t chase rainbows. You are not a good singer!

12. Cool as a cucumber

Explanation: to be very calm and relaxed

13. Costs an arm and a leg

Explanation: when something costs too much money, it’s way too expensive.

Example: The show is excellent, but the tickets cost an arm and a leg. 

14. Cry over spilled milk

Explanation: to be upset about something that is already done or a mistake that can’t be changed.

Example: It’s no use crying over spilled milk. It was a bad investment. 

15. Draw a longbow

Explanation: to exaggerate, to lie.

Example: Anne is drawing a longbow. Do you believe her at all?

16. Easier said than done

Explanation: not as easy to do as it seems harder than you think.

Example: It's a lot tougher than that. It's one of those things that are easier said than done.

17. Eat like a bird

Explanation: to eat very little.

Example: Look at you! You have to eat more. You are eating like a bird. 

18. Feeling under the weather

Explanation: to feel ill, sick, having a hangover.

Example: I have my final test, but I’m feeling under the weather. I think I have a fever. 

19. Find your feet

Explanation: become confident in what you are doing, or familiar with some new situation or experience.

Example: I'm new to this city, so I'm still finding my feet. 

20. Food for thought

Explanation: an idea to think about; think about things that can arise from an event or situation.

Example: My daughter has given me some food for thought about how she organizes her toys.

21. Forty winks

Explanation: sleep a while mainly during the day; take a nap.

Example: My dad always likes to catch forty winks after lunch. 

22. Give a shot

Explanation: to try something you are not quite familiar with.

Example: I’m not prepared for my exam today. I will give it a shot. 

23. Go cold turkey

Explanation: to suddenly stop or quit some bad or addictive behavior, like stop smoking.

Example: He had been trying to quit smoking for a year but couldn't, so he decided to go cold turkey. 

24. Hit the hay/sack

Explanation: when someone is really tired and wants to go to sleep.

Example: Sorry guys, I have to hit the hay now!

25. Hold one’s peace.

Explanation: be silent.

Example: Just hold your peace if you don’t have anything smart to say.

26. It’s not rocket science

Explanation: It’s not difficult; it’s not complicated.

Example: Driving a car isn’t rocket science. I don’t understand why people don’t drive better.

27. Keep your chin up

Explanation: be brave and courageous in a tough situation.

Example: Don't let the difficulties intimidate you; keep your chin up. 

28. Kill two birds with one stone.

Explanation: accomplish two different things, jobs, or actions; solve problems at the same time.

Example: Cycling to work kills two birds with one stone. It saves money and gives you some exercise.  

29. Lose your marbles

Explanation: to go crazy, insane.

Example: I’ve been so bad lately that I thought I’m losing my marbles.

30. Make ends meet.

Explanation: make enough money to survive, to manage expenses.

Example: We need to start saving money in order to make ends meet. 

31. Make a long story short

Explanation: Tell something briefly.

Example: To make a long story short, I had a wonderful time during my vacation.

32. Never in a million years

Explanation: Absolutely never.

Example: Never in a million years would I think to fall in love with him.

33. On cloud nine

Explanation: to be extremely happy or cheerful.

Example: Susan is on cloud nine since she got married.

34. Once in a blue moon

Explanation: something happens very rarely, once after a very long time.

Example: I don’t know why she bought that music system. She uses it once in a blue moon.

35. Out of the woods

Explanation: the hardest part of something is over, but the situation isn’t still good.

Example: The surgery went well, but he’s not out of the woods yet.

36. Penny for your thoughts

Explanation: a way of asking someone else’s thoughts.

Example: You seem so serious. A penny for your thoughts.

Don't forget to work on learning new English words every day, not just idioms. 

37. Pull someone’s leg

Explanation: To joke with someone, to trick someone in a humorous way

Example: I think he was just pulling your leg when he said you’ve fallen in the exam.

38. Rain cats and dogs

Explanation: rain heavily, tremendously.

Example: It’s raining cats and dogs when the Monsoon comes.

39. Speak of the devil

Explanation: The person we were talking about showed up.

Example: Did you hear what happened to Anne yesterday? Oh, speak of the devil, there she is.

40. Square peg in a round hole

Explanation: When a person doesn’t fit into society when you find in a surrounding that doesn’t suit you.

Example: That lifestyle really doesn't suit Sally at all; she's like a square peg in a round hole. 

41. Takes two to tango.

Explanation: Specific actions can’t be performed alone; it takes two persons to participate; both persons are responsible for an action.

Example: If you want to play that game, you need a partner who plays with you. It takes two to tango. 

42. That’s the last straw

Explanation: Someone’s patience has run out, to be the latest in a sequence of unpleasant things that can’t be accepted.

Example: I’m not going to wait for the last straw. I’ll do something about the problem much sooner than you.

43. To cut corners

Explanation: to do something in an easy and very cheap way; to reduce time, money, expenses.

Example: My mom often had to cut corners when we were kids to feed all of us.

44. To go Dutch

Explanation: When everyone pays his bill.

Example: Last night we had a date, but we went Dutch because I’ve paid for my coffee and he paid his.

45. To have sticky fingers

Explanation: to be a thief.

Example: The manager fired his employee because he had sticky fingers. He stole 100$.

46. To sit tight

Explanation: wait patiently and take no action; stay where you are.

Example: Just relax and sit tight; we'll solve the problem for you.

47. Up in the air

Explanation: unresolved, undecided about something; full of doubt.

Example: I am not sure what the plans are. Everything was up in the air when I last spoke to him about it. 

48. What goes around, comes around.

Explanation: how you treat and behave to others will eventually come to you, too.

Example: All of his life, he treated his family with no respect, and now his son is doing the same to him. What goes around, comes around.

49. When pigs fly

Explanation: something that will never happen or highly unlikely to happen.

Example: He plans to clean his house every week, but he will probably do it only when pigs fly. 

50. Zip your lip

Explanation: To remain a secret or silent.

Example: I’ll tell you a secret about Marry, but zip your lip about it!

Practice makes perfect

To learn English idioms better, we’ve prepared some exercises that will help you test your knowledge.

Don’t be shy. Try and find out.

Please note that you will not need all listed idioms in the following exercises, so focus and pay attention.

I can’t wait to see you on premiere tomorrow night! __________________ !

I can’t believe that was our test. I think it was easier than some of our homework! It was a ______.

They were discussing the girl who was his new crush when she walked in. ____________________. 

The earthquakes hits _________________ in this part of the earth, we never felt it. 

He showed up for the wedding when they were already cutting the cake. __________________, I suppose. 

To_______________________________, he still stays in the apartment but now it is owned by someone else. 

You can't be serious about that! Stop ___________________. 

Such a beautiful portrait of a little girl - represents how ________________________. 

I am really tired after all that exercise. I am going to_______________. 

John asked Sarah whether she would go to the movies with him. Sarah replied that would happen __________________. 

It is sad to see that people always wait until ________________before they start to take any action in this country. 

It’s not right to blame only the other woman for his adulterous affair -__________________. 

I have never eaten Mexican food, but I will ______________ .

She has just returned from her vacation, but is feeling _______________and has a sore throat and running nose.

I have to go to the bank, and on the way back, I'll pick up the groceries also, ____________________. 

He really wants to go to that event. He's willing to pay __________________ for it. 

When drug addicts go ___________________ they experience a period of extreme suffering.

He has never worked hard for anything because he was________________________. His parents brought everything to him instead. 

Shall we _____________? No, not this time I’m paying the bill.

Peter is still new in his job; give him some time to ______________.

9, B. 4, C. 39, D. 34, E. 5, F. 31. G. 37, H. 3, I. 49, J. 42, K. 41, L. 22, M. 18, N. 28, O. 13, P. 23, Q. 6, R. 6, S. 44, T. 19.

Is it necessary to use idioms while speaking English?

Idioms make your vocabulary wider and show that you have a deep knowledge of the language.

Is it possible to understand the meaning of the idiom without a dictionary?

If you have a context, you may grasp the meaning, but most of the idioms should be checked in the dictionary.

Do native speakers frequently use idioms?

There are many idioms that are well known and frequently used among the native speakers, but some of them become old and rarely used.

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40 Common English Idioms

ThoughtCo / Hilary Allison

• Pronunciation & Conversation
• Writing Skills
• Reading Comprehension
• Business English
• Resources for Teachers

• B.A., English, University of Michigan

Learning English isn’t as easy as some might think. First, grammar muddies the waters (makes things unclear), and idiomatic expressions only add fuel to the fire (make things worse).

If you’re taking the TOEFL or the TOEIC , or just want to know more common idioms , study this list of 40 common idiomatic expressions before you take the test. They may just help your English language acquisition soar (get much better).

Common English Idioms

• 24/7: Twenty-four hours a day; seven days a week; all the time; constantly. My little sister irritates me 24/7!
• A short fuse: A quick temper. Jamie is known for his short fuse; just a few days ago he screamed at his coach for not letting him play.
• A taste of your own medicine: Bad treatment deservedly received for treating other people badly.  After constantly being prank-called, Julian decided to give Juan a taste of his own medicine and ordered twenty-seven pizzas to be delivered to Juan’s house.
• Butterflies in my stomach: To be nervous.  Liam had butterflies in his stomach before he went on stage to play the violin.
• By the skin of your teeth:  To just barely get by or make it.  Lester made the dance team by the skin of his teeth; you can tell he hasn't been dancing jazz for very long. 
• Cat got your tongue?: Can’t you speak? (Usually said to embarrass the other person).  I just saw you kissing my boyfriend. What’s the matter? Cat got your tongue?
• Crying wolf:  To ask for help when you don't need it.  You have cried wolf so many times that no one believes you when you're really hurt. 
• Cut someone some slack:  To not judge someone too harshly.  Hey. Cut me some slack. I was really busy with my frog hunting business last week and forgot to call. I'm sorry!
• Down for the count: Tired; giving up; unable or unwilling to participate any longer.  No, you can’t take my dog for a walk—she’s down for the count after chasing cats all day.
• Draw the line: To stop; to know the point where something goes from okay to not okay.  Now I draw the line at speaking in front of 34,000 people.
• Easier said than done: Not as easy as it appears to be.  You want me to come to work at 6:00 AM? Easier said than done!
• Every cloud has a silver lining: You can find good in every bad situation. E ven though you just got fired, remember that every cloud has a silver lining—at least you don’t have to work for that grouchy boss anymore!
• Finding a needle in a haystack: Virtually impossible to find.  Trying to get a new job these days is like trying to find a needle in a haystack.
• Fish out of water: To be out of place.  Tom felt like a fish out of water at the Star Trek convention his new girlfriend begged him to attend.
• Get something off your chest: To talk about something that has been bothering you for a long time; to admit something you have done wrong.  I have to get this off my chest—I copied your answers on the SAT . Thanks for the 15th percentile score , by the way. 
• Give it a whirl: To try something.  I’ve never gone kite-boarding, but I’m prepared to give it a whirl!
• Go down in flames:  To fail suddenly and spectacularly.  The football player's career went down in flames after the media learned he'd been losing on purpose to settle gambling debts. 
• Go the extra mile:  To make an extra effort.  My dentist always goes the extra mile, offering free back massages at the end of a stressful tooth extraction. 
• Hang in there:  Be patient. Wait it out.  I know you're struggling right now in school but just hang in there. It'll get easier. I promise. 
• In the fast lane: A life filled with excitement.  When Curtis turned forty, he decided he needed to live life in the fast lane, so he quit his job as a dentist and decided to tour Europe by motorcycle.
• In the nick of time: Almost too late.  You gave me that main idea help in the nick of time—my teacher just gave us a quiz on that reading skill and I passed it!
• Let the cat out of the bag: Tell a secret.  Brady’s surprise party is going to be great if you don’t let the cat out of the bag.
• Let the chips fall where they may:  To let something happen, no matter if it's good or bad.  Look. I'm going to just try out for the cheerleading squad and let the chips fall where they may. 
• Lose your marbles: To go crazy; insane.  Mom has really lost her marbles; she's making me practice writing the ACT Essay seven times this week!
• Once in a blue moon: Rarely.  In Florida, the temperature drops below freezing only once in a blue moon.
• Plain as day: Obvious; clear.  It’s plain as day that you’re in love with her, so just admit it.
• Play second fiddle: To be less important.  I hate playing second fiddle to my sister; she always does things better than I do!
• Put your foot in your mouth: Saying something you shouldn’t have.  Jessica really put her foot in her mouth when she asked about John’s job right after he lost it.
• Pull yourself together:  Calm down and behave normally.  Pull yourself together, man! Sure, your girlfriend just dumped you and then you got hit by a car, but you can't let those things get you down. 
• Sick and tired: To be bothered or annoyed by.  She is sick and tired of her dog chewing up her shoes every day.
• Sleep on it: To think about something for a while before making a decision.  Don’t tell me whether you’ll move to Texas with me or not today. Sleep on it, and get back to me tomorrow.
• Snug as a bug in a rug: Warm and cozy; content.  That baby looks as snug as a bug in a rug cuddled up next to his mother.
• Step up your game:  To start performing better.  Listen, Jen. You'd better step up your game if you want to get all A's in Miss Finch's Physics class. She isn't easy!
• Stick your nose into something: To interfere.  Sharon always sticks her nose into everyone else’s business.
• Straight from the horse’s mouth: Directly from the person involved.  Listen to the news straight from the horse’s mouth; we’re all getting bonuses this week!
• Take it easy: Relax.  I know you’re not feeling well, so try to take it easy today.
• Tip of the iceberg: The small easily visible part of a larger problem.  The fact that Carrie is dating a member of the mafia is just the tip of the iceberg; she’s also smuggling contraband into the country.
• To not see the wood for the trees: To be so involved with the details that you don’t get the most important facts.  She always argues about the silliest things; it’s like she can’t see the wood for the trees.
• Up a creek without a paddle: In an unlucky/bad situation.  If you don’t have any money to pay for the repairs we just made to your car, I guess you’re up a creek without a paddle because you can’t have your car back.
• You rock! : You are great.  Dude. You rock. Thanks for offering to watch my pet iguana all week. 

These are just a few of the thousands of idioms in the English language . Get your feet wet (start) with these, and then move on to the idioms that will knock your socks off (astound you).

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• Academic vocab

Academic Idioms In the long run bear in mind a fair share

Although it is often assumed that idioms are too informal for use in academic English, two studies have identified idioms which occur fairly frequently in spoken and written academic English.

This page describes idioms in academic English, giving information on what an idiom is , why academic idioms should be studied , as well as a list of academic idioms for spoken and written English from a recent study of idioms (Miller, 2019), giving first background to the creation of the list and finally the list itself .

There are also some exercises to help you practise using academic idioms.

What is an idiom?

For another look at the same content, check out the video on YouTube (also available on Youku ). There is a worksheet (with answers and teacher's notes) for this video.

An idiom is a fixed, well-established, multi-word expression, the meaning of which is not deducible from the individual words. The following are some examples of idioms in everyday (not academic) English.

• Raining cats and dogs - raining very hard
• Break a leg - said before a performance, meaning 'good luck'
• Behind one's back - secretly

The following are some examples of idioms for academic English use (a complete list is given below).

• On the other hand - from another point of view (showing contrast)
• Bear in mind - think of something, especially as a warning
• The bottom line - the main or essential point
• Take on board - accept or deal with (a problem or idea)

Why study academic idioms?

Idioms are common in everyday spoken and written English. Although it is often assumed that idioms are too informal for use in academic English, two studies ( Simpson and Mendis, 2003 , and Miller, 2019 ) have identified idioms which are used in academic contexts, more commonly in spoken academic contexts though also in academic writing. In Miller's study, idioms in spoken academic texts, including repetitions, occurred with a frequency of 835 per million words, or close to 0.1%. While this figure is not as high as, say, words in the Academic Word List (10%) or the Academic Collocation List (1.4%), productive knowledge of idioms will assist students in becoming part of the academic discourse community, while receptive knowledge will aid them in understanding spoken or written texts.

Miller reports that idioms may sometimes be signposted by lecturers (e.g. via the phrase as it were ) or writers (e.g. via the phrase as they say or by use of quotation marks). However, these methods do not always signal idiom use, do not help students to understand the meaning of idioms, and in fact add a layer of complexity to academic English study (in terms of what as it were and as they say mean and why quotation marks are used in that way).

Academic Idioms List: background to the list

The list of academic idioms (below) comes from the study by Julia Miller (2019), which used two academic English corpuses: the British Academic Spoken English (BASE) corpus for spoken texts (lectures and seminars), and the Oxford Corpus of Academic English (OCAE) for written texts. Only idioms with a frequency of more than 1.2 per million words (pmw) in the BASE were included.

The range of idiom use is shown by the number of texts in which each idiom occurs, as well as the number of faculties (i.e. disciplinary groups) it occurs in. Miller's study used four such faculties, namely Social Sciences (which had the highest idiom use with 234 pmw), Arts and Humanities (which had 191 idioms pmw), Life and Medical Sciences (183 pmw), and Physical Sciences (which had the least frequent use, 76 pmw).

Most idioms in the list occur in more than one faculty, meaning they are suitable for study by all students of academic English. The most frequent idiom used in only one faculty, gold standard (24th most frequent idiom in spoken academic English and 10th most frequent in written academic English), was used only in the Life Sciences (medical articles).

Miller, J. (2019) 'The bottom line: Are idioms used in English academic speech and writing?', Journal of English for Academic Purposes , 43 (2020) 100810. Available online at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jeap.2019.100810 .

Simpson, R., and Mendis, D. (2003) 'A corpus-based study of idioms in academic speech', Tesol Quarterly , 37(3), 419e441. Available online at: https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/90255/3588398.pdf?sequence=1 .

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Academic Idioms List: Spoken

The list below gives spoken academic idioms from the BASE (British Academic Spoken English) corpus, listed in order of frequency. There are 170 idioms in total. There is a separate version of 38 idioms for written academic English (use the button below to switch lists). Definitions are included for all idioms. [Note: Sp freq pmw means spoken frequency per million words while Wr freq pmw refers to written frequency per million words .]

Some definitions take from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved. THIS SOFTWARE AND DATABASE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND PRINCETON UNIVERSITY MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. BY WAY OF EXAMPLE, BUT NOT LIMITATION, PRINCETON UNIVERSITY MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT- ABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR THAT THE USE OF THE LICENSED SOFTWARE, DATABASE OR DOCUMENTATION WILL NOT INFRINGE ANY THIRD PARTY PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS, TRADEMARKS OR OTHER RIGHTS.

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Author: Sheldon Smith    ‖    Last modified: 16 November 2022.

Sheldon Smith is the founder and editor of EAPFoundation.com. He has been teaching English for Academic Purposes since 2004. Find out more about him in the about section and connect with him on Twitter , Facebook and LinkedIn .

The AWL highlighter allows you to highlight words from the AWL (Academic Word List) in any text you choose.

The Academic Word List (AWL) contains 570 word families which frequently appear in academic texts.

The Academic Collocation List (ACL) is a list containing 2,469 of the most frequent and useful collocations which occur in written academic English.

Academic vocabulary consists of general words, non-general academic words, and technical words.

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Learning vocabulary depends on knowing how much to learn, the type of vocabulary to study, and how to study it properly.

100+ Interesting Idioms for Essays writing – Pro Idioms

Interesting Idioms for Essays writing!

Here is the list of useful idioms related to essays writing in English and paragraphs writing, must go through all of these idioms and memorize these useful idioms list, you can also save this idiom list for your later use.

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9 Everyday Idioms For Argumentative Essay

English Idioms for Argumentative Essay, expressions and proverbs are an essential part of the English language, both spoken and written English are saturated with them.

For ESL Students, idioms for Argumentative Essay are frustrating to grasp, the reason being Idioms don’t make literal sense.

To learn the meanings and usage of idioms, ESL students must practice and familiarize themselves with their everyday usage.

The team at Lillypad understands the pain and difficulties English Learners come across in comprehending the true meaning and acceptable usage. This list of idioms for Argumentative Essay makes learning effortless, with common Argumentative Essay idioms, definitions, and example sentences which make the meaning clear.

Learning to use common idioms and expressions will make your English sound more native, so it’s a good idea to master some of these expressions with daily practice, so bookmark this page or share it with your friends; now let us learn about idioms for Argumentative Essay together.

Idioms for Argumentative Essay with Meanings, Definitions & Example Sentences

1. there are many ways to do something, definition and meaning: there are many ways to do something.

The expression means that there are often multiple ways to accomplish a task or goal.

There Are Many Ways To Do Something Example Sentences:

• There are many ways to make a delicious meal – you can try different recipes, experiment with different ingredients, or even take a cooking class.
• There are many ways to save money – you can cut back on unnecessary expenses, look for discounts, or invest in a high-interest savings account.
• There are many ways to stay healthy – you can exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep.
• There are many ways to learn a new language – you can take classes, use online resources, or practice with a native speaker.
• There are many ways to solve a problem – you can brainstorm ideas, research potential solutions, or consult an expert.

2. You Can’t Judge A Book By Its Cover

Definition and meaning: you can’t judge a book by its cover.

The expression means that you can’t judge something by its appearance.

You Can’t Judge A Book By Its Cover Example Sentences:

• Just because my friend looks like a slob doesn’t mean he’s not a genius You can’t judge a book by its cover.
• Don’t be fooled by the exterior of the restaurant You can’t judge a book by its cover.
• Don’t be so quick to judge my brother You can’t judge a book by its cover.
• Don’t be so quick to judge the new girl in school You can’t judge a book by its cover.
• Don’t be so quick to judge the homeless man on the street You can’t judge a book by its cover.

3. Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Basket

Definition and meaning: don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

This expression is often used to caution against putting all of one’s resources into a single venture.

Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Basket Example Sentences:

• When investing, it’s important to diversify your portfolio so you don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
• When it comes to job hunting, don’t put all your eggs in one basket Apply to multiple companies to increase your chances of getting hired.
• Don’t put all your eggs in one basket when it comes to finding a new place to live Look at multiple options before making a decision.
• Don’t put all your eggs in one basket when it comes to finding a new car Shop around and compare prices to get the best deal.
• Don’t put all your eggs in one basket when it comes to finding a new business partner Meet with multiple potential partners before making a decision.

4. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

Definition and meaning: let sleeping dogs lie.

The expression “let sleeping dogs lie” means to leave something alone that is better left alone.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie Example Sentences:

• I know you want to confront your ex about what happened, but I think it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie.
• I heard about the old feud between the two families, but I think it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie and not get involved.
• I know you want to bring up the past, but I think it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie and move on.
• I know you want to ask your boss about the raise, but I think it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie and wait for the right time.
• I know you want to talk to your friend about the argument, but I think it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie and give them some space.

5. There’s No Time Like The Present

Definition and meaning: there’s no time like the present.

The expression “there’s no time like the present” means that now is the best time to do something.

There’s No Time Like The Present Example Sentences:

• If you want to start a new business, there’s no time like the present!
• If you want to learn a new language, there’s no time like the present!
• If you want to take a vacation, there’s no time like the present!
• If you want to start a new hobby, there’s no time like the present!
• If you want to make a change in your life, there’s no time like the present!

6. A Stitch In Time Saves Nine

Definition and meaning: a stitch in time saves nine.

The expression “A stitch in time saves nine” is an idiom that means that it is better to fix a problem when it is small because it will take less time and effort than if it is allowed to become bigger.

A Stitch In Time Saves Nine Example Sentences:

• If you notice a small crack in your car’s windshield, get it fixed right away – a stitch in time saves nine.
• If you’re having trouble with a project at work, ask for help early on – a stitch in time saves nine.
• If you’re having trouble with a class, talk to your professor as soon as possible – a stitch in time saves nine.
• If you notice a leak in your roof, call a repairman right away – a stitch in time saves nine.
• If you’re having trouble with a relationship, talk to the other person before it gets worse – a stitch in time saves nine.

7. An Ounce Of Prevention Is Worth A Pound Of Cure

Definition and meaning: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

The expression means that it is better to take steps to prevent something from happening than to wait until it happens and then try to fix it.

An Ounce Of Prevention Is Worth A Pound Of Cure Example Sentences:

• It’s important to get regular check-ups from your doctor – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
• Make sure to wear sunscreen when you go outside – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
• Take the time to properly maintain your car – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
• Invest in a good security system for your home – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
• Make sure to get enough sleep each night – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

8. Better Safe Than Sorry

Definition and meaning: better safe than sorry.

The expression “better safe than sorry” means that it is better to be safe than to be sorry.

Better Safe Than Sorry Example Sentences:

• I always wear a helmet when I ride my bike, better safe than sorry.
• I always double-check my work before submitting it, better safe than sorry.
• I always back up my computer files, better safe than sorry.
• I always lock my car doors when I’m not in it, better safe than sorry.
• I always wear sunscreen when I’m outside, better safe than sorry.

9. Look Before You Leap

Definition and meaning: look before you leap.

The expression “look before you leap” means to think carefully about something before you do it, especially something that is risky.

Look Before You Leap Example Sentences:

• Before you decide to invest in a new business venture, make sure you look before you leap.
• Before you commit to a long-term relationship, take the time to look before you leap.
• Before you sign a contract, read the fine print and look before you leap.
• Before you make a major purchase, do your research and look before you leap.
• Before you take a new job, make sure you look before you leap and understand the job requirements.

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501+ Best Idioms with Examples and Meanings for Everyday Usage [Download PDF]

• Updated on  
• Feb 13, 2024

Idioms with Examples: An idiom is an expression or phrase whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words “ Idioms mean something different than the individual words .” However, students often confuse proverbs with idioms.

But, one should know that proverbs are well-known for stating a piece of advice or general fact. For example, a picture worth a thousand words is a proverb – a general truth . Now, let us consider the idiom ‘ bite off more than you can chew ‘. What you meant is that you are trying to do something too hard for you.

For students looking to explore more about idioms in their essays,  Essaypay.com  can be a great resource. You can even order essays online for in-depth insights into various idioms. In the meantime, read this blog to learn more than 501 useful and common idioms with examples and meanings.

This Blog Includes:

What is an idiom – meaning and definition, why use idioms in sentences, download 100+ idioms with examples & meanings pdf, 79+ idioms & phrases with meaning for advance vocabulary, 20 more idioms with examples to improve vocabulary, 35 more idioms for competitive exams – ssc cgl preparation, 30 most popular idioms with examples for students, 5 best idioms with examples for happiness, 10 best idioms for money you should know, 7+ idioms for great things or ideas, most popular idioms for kids with example.

Also Read: Essay on Peer Pressure

A set of words, or, to put it another way, a phrase, that has a meaning beyond the words’ literal meanings are known as idioms . The Cambridge Dictionary defines an idiom as “a group of words in a fixed order that has a particular meaning that is different from the meanings of each word on its own,” while the Merriam-Webster dictionary defines an idiom as “ a statement in the usage of a language that is distinctive to itself either in having a meaning that cannot be deduced from the conjoined meanings of its constituents ” (e.g., up in the air for “undecided”) or in its grammatically unconventional word usage (e.g., give way).

Idioms and their Meanings Quiz

Your answer:

Correct answer:

Your Answers

The fact that one cannot just rely on the meaning of individual words to grasp what the full phrase means is the sole thing that makes studying idioms a time-consuming process.

Idioms should not be utilised in writing for academic or professional purposes. In a more lighthearted setting, idioms may add personality to your work or speaking. Idioms can also be used to convey sarcasm or puns.

The only issue is that it would be meaningless or have no impact on a group of individuals who are unfamiliar with the idiom you are employing. Therefore, you should always make sure that the audience you are utilising idioms with can understand their meaning.

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

List of 20 Common Idioms with Examples for Everyday Usage

Have to come across commonly used idioms in English while watching TV shows or movies? As idioms do not always make literal sense, students should be familiar with their meanings and how to use them. This may appear to be a lot of work, but idioms are fun!

So, here’s a list of the top 100 common idioms with their meanings and sentence examples:

Important Tip to Learn Idioms with Examples and their meanings: It is comparatively easier to remember words unlike idioms because idioms (phrases) contain 3 or more words. And, remembering a chain of words and then speaking them in the correct sequence is not easy. But, one thing you can do is to repeat the idiom and its meaning a few times loudly and then use it in 2 to 3 different sentences.

Idioms are used as figurative language, i.e. the use of words imaginatively and unusually. Take a look at more idioms with examples.

1. In for a penny, in for a pound

Meaning: That someone is intentionally investing his time or money for a particular project or task. Example: When Athlead was booming, Jim was in for a penny and in for a pound, that’s how dedicated he was. 

2. A bird in the hand is better than two in the bush

Meaning: An opportunity in hand, currently, is better than a prospect in the future, because time never repeats itself. Example: The detective apprehended 3 criminals and saw another one running but didn’t chase him, because she knew a bird in one hand was better than two in the bush.

3. Chip off the old block

Meaning: A person is similar in behaviour or actions to his parents. Example: When grandmother saw her grandson collecting coins like her son used to do, she knew he was a Chip off the old block .

4. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you

Meaning: Treat people the same way you want to be treated. Example: I felt Peter was a little cold today towards that homeless man, he should do unto others as he would have them do unto him , because who knows about time.

5. Don’t cry over spilt milk

Meaning: Don’t cry over what has happened as it can not be fixed. Example: Walter failed his examination but his dad came and said just one thing, “Son, Don’t cry over spilt milk . ”

6. Every cloud has a silver lining

Meaning: Bad things one day eventually lead to good things. Example: See, yesterday you were so morose as your phone was stolen but look at you today, you got a promotion. Is it rightly said that every cloud has a silver lining ?

7. Beside yourself with joy

Meaning: To be extremely happy. Example: I can see that you are beside yourself with joy on being selected for the job, congratulations. 

8. Fair and square

Meaning: Being direct or fair. Example: To tell you fair and square , I did everything that I was meant to do, but I still feel unfulfilled. 

9. Having an Ace up the sleeve

Meaning: Have an advantage that is currently being withheld for future purposes.  Example: Brian kept quiet at the board meeting, who knew he had an Ace hidden up his sleeve the whole time?

10. A black sheep

Meaning: Being a disgrace to the family. Example: They don’t talk about Olive anymore, turns out he was the Black sheep for the family, and he married someone else while he was still married to his fiancé. 

11. Hook, line and sinker

Meaning: Doing something or trying to achieve something with thoroughness and passion. Example: I have set my mind to go through the spreadsheets by Monday and I am working for it Hook, line and sinker .

12. Looking to your laurels

Meaning: Do not be lost in your achievements and lose sight of what is supposed to happen. Example: Look on your laurels but do not rest on them. 

13. Bear a grudge

Meaning: To continue to feel angry or unfriendly toward someone or something because of a particular past incident. Example: I Bear a grudge against him for not taking me into confidence.

14. By the skin of your teeth

Meaning: To just barely get by or make it. Example: Lester made the dance team By the skin of his teeth , you see the audition gates were about to get closed.

15. Down for the count

Meaning: Tired; giving up. Example: My pet dog is down for the count after playing the whole day with the frisbee.

16. Draw the line

Meaning: To stop before a point where something okay gets not okay. Example: Hey buddy, that’s enough, Draw the line before someone comes and beats you to a pulp.

17. Easier said than done

Meaning: Not as easy as it appears to be. Example: Listen, losing weight is easier said than done , many people lack commitment. 

18. Break a leg

Meaning: Saying good luck to someone. Example: Hey Barry, it’s time for you to get on the stage and present your monologue, break a leg .

19. Up a creek without a paddle

Meaning: In an unlucky situation. Example: Dan tried to dine and dash yesterday at a Chinese place but he was stopped by the waiters, guess he was up a creek without a paddle yesterday.

20. Give it a whirl

Meaning: To give something a try. Example: I am terrified of skydiving, but I think once in my life, I will give it a whirl.

21. Fish out of water

Meaning: To be out of your comfort zone. Example: Tom felt like a fish out of water when his girlfriend took him to a Star Wars convention in LA.

22. In the fast lane

Meaning: A life filled with excitement. Example: When Chris turned forty, he decided to live his life in the fast lane and quit his job for his hobbies.

23. Go the extra mile

Meaning: To make an extra effort. Example: He was willing to go the extra mile for the love of his life, Mia.

24. Snug as a bug in a rug

Meaning: Warm and cosy. Meaning: The baby looks as snug as a bug in a rug next to her mother.

25. Step up your game

Meaning: To start performing better Example: Jennifer better step up her game if she wants to make big in Basketball.

Besides, knowing about various idioms with examples, a good vocabulary can take you to places in competitive exams as well as in life.  Here’s our blog on 50 difficult words with meanings for you to master your speaking skills now!

26. To not see the wood for the trees

Meaning: To be so involved in trivial matters that you don’t get the important facts. Example: He always argues on the silliest topics, it’s like he can’t see wood for the trees .

27. Lose your marbles

Meaning: To go insane. Example: Our mailman has lost his marbles , every day he drops Mr. Smith’s mail on our door. 

28. Straight from the Horse’s mouth

Meaning: Directly from the person involved. Example: Listen to the news straight from the horse’s mouth , his factory burned down right in front of his eyes. 

29. Crying Wolf

Meaning: To ask for help when you don’t need it. Example: You have been a crying Wolf so many times that no one believes you now.

30. Palm off

Meaning: Pass off something as genuine when it is spurious. Example: This shopkeeper always palms off old stock to the customers.

31. Has bigger fish to fry

Meaning: Has more important work to do. Example: Please don’t bother me today with any calls, I have bigger fish to fry .

32. Look before you leap

Meaning: Calculate the risks before advancing towards a possibility. Example: You can’t just sell all of your shares when the market is low, look before you leap , Trump is coming tomorrow, and the shares may grow.

33. On thin ice

Meaning: In a precarious or risky situation. Example: Andy played hooky from work for a week saying he was sick, and now his boss said that he is on thin ice .

34. Play devil’s advocate

Meaning: To argue, just for the sake of it. Example: He was not agreeing to back off as if he was playing devil’s advocate.

35. Rain on someone’s parade

Meaning: To spoil a moment. Example: He told his wife that he didn’t want to rain on her parade , but they had to shift their vacation dates.

36. Take a rain check

Meaning: Postpone a plan. Example: He asked me whether I would like to have dinner with his family, but I had a thing so I said, rain check .

37. Take it with a grain of salt

Meaning: Don’t take it too seriously. Example: She tells great tales but we take whatever she says with a grain of salt . 

38. Like a cakewalk

Meaning: So easy task. Example: Everyone took hours to write the code but Adam did it like a cakewalk.

39. Throw caution to the wind

Meaning: Take a risk. Example: The caretaker threw caution to the wind by taking a sick baby outside. 

40. Penny-wise and Pound foolish

Meaning: Careful in trivial matters but wasteful or extravagant in large matters. Example: That man eats Ramen noodles daily for dinner but for his dog, he throws a big party. He is indeed penny-wise and pound-foolish.

41. The whole nine yards

Meaning: Everything, all the way. Example: I want to know everything there is to know about this merger, the whole nine yards of the deal.

42. The best thing since sliced bread

Meaning: A really good invention. Example: Bluetooth is officially the best thing since sliced bread . 

43. Bite off more than you can chew

Meaning: Take on difficult work that is beyond your capabilities.  Example: Andrew told his boss that he would triple the sales but in reality, he bit off more than he can chew and now all of us are in trouble.

44. Play by the ear

Meaning: To improvise. Example: I just went to Canada and did everything playing by the ear , no itinerary, no schedules.

45. Ignorance is bliss

Meaning: You are better off not knowing some things. Example: His wife always asked him what it was he did late at night, turned out, he was insider trading. But she knew nothing about this so she won’t be convicted, sometimes ignorance is bliss. 

46. Put something on ice

Meaning: To put something on hold. Example: As per the boss’ order, Michael has put his personal matters on ice.

47. You can say that again

Meaning: That’s absolutely true. Example: “The Earth is bleeding”, you can say that again, pal .

48. Bite the bullet

Meaning: To get something over with because it is inevitable. Example: Vik was diagnosed with second-stage cancer but he didn’t want to get chemotherapy. By the will of his wife, he bit the bullet .

49. Go back to the drawing board

Meaning: Start over. Example: It is not too late to go back to the drawing board and assess your mistakes.

50. Call it a day

Meaning: Stop working on something. Example: Ah! So if we didn’t complete the puzzle today, let’s call it a day and come back again tomorrow.

It is important to note that idioms themselves do not create complete sentences and they require additional context to give them a sense. Take a look at some more idioms with examples and their meanings:

51. Beating Around the Bush

Meaning: To talk about unnecessary things. Example: When I asked my secretary about the missing file and documents, she was beating around the bush .

52. Be in a Tight Corner

Meaning: Being in a difficult situation. Example: Radha’s low grades despite her constant efforts have put her in a very tight corner .

53. At the 11th Hour

Meaning: At the last moment. Example: While leaving for Shimla, Harshit kept his mobile phone charger in the bag at the 11th hour .

54. Swan Song

Meaning: The last piece of work of an artist before his/her death. Example: This painting was M.F Hussain’s swan song.

55. Wild Goose Chase

Meaning: Futile Chase Example: Catching the two thieves together on a jam-packed road was no less than a wild goose chase for the policeman.

56. Bury the Hatchet

Meaning: Ending a quarrel to make peace. Example: My father buried the hatchet by equally dividing the pasta between me and my sister.

57. To Bell the Cat

Meaning: To face a risk. Example: He belled the cat when he was trying to escape the prison.

58. Turn a deaf ear

Meaning: To ignore what someone is saying. Example: Whenever her mother complained of her excessive use of her mobile phone, Anu turned a deaf ear.

Meaning: Confused Example: I was at sea while choosing a lehenga for my sister’s wedding at Manish Malhotra’s store.

60. To be in the doldrums

Meaning: To be in a low spirit Example: When I got to know about the increasing cases of COVID-19 in my area, I was in the doldrums .

61. Hit the books

Meaning: Going to study Example: I won’t be able to come for dinner as I have to hit the books for my half-yearly examinations. 

62. Twist someone’s arm

Meaning: To convince someone Example: I was not planning to come to the party but by reminding me of all the good food you twisted my arm !

63. Stab someone in the back

Meaning: To betray a close person Example: My uncle trusted his driver so much but he stabbed him in the back when he saw all the money bags.

64. Go cold turkey

Meaning: To quit or stop addictive or dangerous behaviour Example: No one could believe that my father left eating sweets! He went cold turkey when the doctors told him that he had diabetes. 

65. Ring a bell

Meaning: Sounds familiar Example: Why does this name ring a bell in my head? Was this girl in my school?

66. Cut to the chase

Meaning: Getting to the important point Example: As the submissions were to be made tonight, the boss cut to the chase and asked us to start working. 

67. Blow off steam

Meaning: Experiencing strong feelings like anger or stress Example: Shina went running to blow off steam as she had a huge fight with her mother. 

68. Face the music

Meaning: Face the reality Example: Shikha asked her husband to not run away from the problem and just face the music once!

69. To have sticky fingers

Meaning: Thief Example: The cashier had a sticky finger , he stole around $2000 and ran away from the bank. 

70. Break the bank

Meaning: To be very expensive Example: I had to break the bank to buy these shoes!

71. Face the music

Meaning : Confront the unpleasant consequences of one’s actions. Example : We have done it and now it’s time to face the music !

72. It is always darkest before the dawn

Meaning : Things will get better Example : I know you have gone through the worst, but remember it is always darkest before the dawn .

73. Jump the gun

Meaning : To act on something promptly before the right time Example : I think I jumped the gun by sending the e-mail before they told me the time.

74. Wear your heart on your sleeve

Meaning : Expressing yourself too openly Example : She wears her heart on her sleeve and often gets hurt.

75. Cut no ice

Meaning : Fail to make an impact Example : Your poetry cuts no ice with me

76. Light at the end of the tunnel

Meaning : Seeing signs of improvement in the future Example : I see the light at the end of the tunnel for my relationship with her

77. Through thick and thin

Meaning : Through good and bad times Example : Books and music stay by your side through thick and thin .

78. Cry for the moon

Meaning : To ask for something that is rather difficult Example : You are crying for the moon for this concert’s tickets!

79. Read between the lines

Meaning : Understanding the real message behind something Example : If you try to read between the lines , her song is actually about Nizagara

80. Don’t give up a day’s job

Meaning: You are not very good at something or you could not do it professionally Example : I love painting, but I shouldn’t give up a day’s job just yet.

Here are the most common 20 idioms with their meanings and sentences:

81 . A left-handed compliment Meaning: Saying something insulting in the form of appreciative words. Example: Her words on my blog seem like a left-handed compliment.

82 . Once in a blue moon Meaning: Not very often Example : I visit her place once in a blue moon

83 . Call a spade a spade Meaning: Talking frankly Example: I will not lie about it and call a spade a spade.

84 . Flesh and blood Meaning: Referring to someone in the family or human nature Example: It’s flesh and blood to feel such strong emotions at this time.

85 . Jam on the brakes Meaning : Press brakes of a vehicle suddenly Example: I had to jam on the brakes when I saw the deer.

86 . Notch up Meaning : To win or create a record Example: One Direction notched up the finale with their amazing voice!

87 . A slap on the wrist Meaning : Just a small punishment Example: You will get a slap on the wrist for painting this wall but don’t dare to do it again.

88 . Knee Jerk Reaction Meaning : A quick response Example : The statement was just a knee-jerk reaction.

89 . Once bitten, twice shy Meaning : Afraid of doing something again Example : Once bitten twice shy, he can’t ski.

90 . Forty winks Meaning: A short nap Example: I will be just in for forty winks, I promise.

91 . Up for grabs Meaning : Available for everyone Example : This pizza slice is up for grabs!

92 . Old as the hills Meaning : Someone very old Example : The man looks as old as the hills.

93 . Back to square one Meaning: Start all over again Example: Your mistake brought us back to square one.

94 . Round the bend Meaning : Crazy Example: My neighbour is around the bend, don’t try to mess with her.

95 . Against the clock Meaning : Rushed Example : I have to hurry for the meeting, I am against the clock.

96 . Black and blue Meaning : Something bruised Example : What happened? Your eyes look black and blue .

97 . Have the blues Meaning : Sad Example : After meeting her, I am feeling the blues.

98 . Be glad to see the back of Meaning : Happy when someone leaves Example : Tomorrow, I will be glad to see the back of her.

99 . Blackout Meaning : Faint Example : I blacked out after two drinks.

100 . Get in Shape Meaning : To become strong or fit Example : I need to make a proper schedule to get in shape before the graduation ceremony.

55 Best Idioms & Phrases for Competitive Exams

1 . At First Blush – First sight Example: At first blush, the proposal seems promising, but upon closer examination, its flaws become apparent.

2 . A wet blanket – A person who discourages enjoyment or enthusiasm Example: Sarah’s constant pessimism and negative comments about potential challenges threw a wet blanket on their celebration.

3 . Your Guess is as Good as Mine – To have no idea about anything Example: “Will this flight reach on time?” “Your guess is as good as mine.”

4. Tuck in – To put something in a secure place, to start eating, or to encourage someone to start eating something. Example: Mother cooked some delicious food and asked us to tuck in.

5 . Speak of the Devil – The person you’re talking about shows up at the exact time Example : I hope he doesn’t show up to the office today – oh, speak of the devil, here he comes.

6 . Not a spark of decency – No manners Example: The class showed not a spark of decency by refusing to stand up when their principal entered the classroom.

7. In the heat of the Moment – Overwhelmed by what is happening at the moment Example: I’m afraid I was very arrogant; I was caught up in the heat of the moment.

8 . Hear it on the grapevine – To hear rumours Example: I heard on the grapevine that my brother-in-law got the promotion, but I really don’t know much about it.”

9. To cook the books – To alter facts and figures Example: Their accountant was charged with cooking the books, and now he’s in jail.

10 . Devil’s Advocate – A person who advocates an unpopular cause for the sake of an argument. Example: I don’t really believe all that – I was just playing devil’s advocate.

11. A cash cow – A product or service that generates a lot of revenue for a company. Example: A singer deemed a  cash cow  for the record label.

12. Burn the midnight oil – Work or study hard Example: I have a big exam tomorrow, so I’ll be burning the midnight oil to review all the material.”

13. By fits and starts – In short periods, not regularly Example: The project progressed in fits and starts, with periods of intense productivity followed by long periods of inactivity.

14 . Under his thumb – Under his control Example: I feel like I’m always under his thumb.

15 . Out of the way – Strange Example: Alex realized they were in a tight corner when the client demanded a lower price.

16 . Be in a tight corner – In a very difficult situation

17 . Keep one’s fingers crossed – The anxiety in which you hope that nothing will upset your plans Example: I have a job interview tomorrow, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it goes well and I get the position.

18 . The gift of the gab – Talent for speaking Example: With his natural charisma and the gift of the gab, he could effortlessly captivate any audience with his storytelling.

19 . Cost an Arm and a Leg – Be very expensive Example: The vintage car restoration ended up costing me an arm and a leg, but it was worth it to see it gleaming again.

20 . Smell a rat – Suspect something foul Example: After seeing how eager he was to sell his car for such a low price, I began to smell a rat and suspected that there might be something wrong.

21 . By hook or by crook – By fair or foul means Example: She was willing to do whatever it took—by hook or by crook—to meet the deadline.

22 . Spread like a wildfire – Spread quickly Example: The news of the new product launch spread like wildfire through social media, garnering attention and excitement from users around the world.

23 . Out of gear – Disturb the work Example: The sudden power outage threw the entire production process out of gear, causing delays and disruptions.

24 . Die in harness – Die while in service Example: Even in his old age, he continued to teach and inspire his students until he eventually died in harness, doing what he loved most.

25 . To be snowed under – To be very busy Example: I can’t go out tonight, I’m snowed under with work and deadlines

26 . To get the sack – To be dismissed from your job Example: After consistently showing up late for work, he eventually got sacked from his job

27 . To cook the books – To modify financial statements

28 . To balance the books – To make certain that the amount of money spent is not more than the amount of money received Example: The company was accused of balancing the books to inflate its profits and deceive investors.

29 . A ballpark figure – A general financial figure Example: The project manager gave us a ballpark figure for the budget, estimating it to be around $50,000, but the actual costs could vary.

30 . Yellow press – Newspapers that publish sensational and unscrupulous stories and exaggerate the news to attract readers. Example: Don’t believe everything you read in the yellow press. They often exaggerate stories for sensationalism

31 . A nine day’s Wonder – An event which relates a sensation for a time but is soon forgotten Example: The new gadget was a nine-day wonder, capturing everyone’s attention for a short time before they moved on to the next big thing.

32 . One swallow does not make a summer – It is unreliable to base one’s conclusions on only a single test or incident Example: Just because John aced one test doesn’t mean he’ll excel in the whole course. Remember, one swallow does not make a summer.

33 . To move heaven and earth – To exert all efforts Example: Sarah was determined to move heaven and earth to ensure her project’s success.

34 . A miss is as good as a mile – Comes nowhere near the target Example: She didn’t win the race, but her coach reminded her that in the end, a miss is as good as a mile.

35 . Lock, stock and barrel – The whole of everything Example: After years of negotiations, they finally decided to buy the company lock, stock, and barrel.

36 . Make hay while the sun shines – Take advantage of all opportunities Example: You should go and make hay while the sun shines, as this could be your chance to secure a great job.

37 . All that glitters is not gold – Things that appear attractive or valuable on the surface may not always be as good as they seem. Example: She realized that all that glitters is not gold and that a high-paying job isn’t always worth sacrificing her happiness and health.

38 . To jump from a frying pan into the fire – To come out of one trouble and get into a worse Example: He ended up jumping from the frying pan into the fire when he started his new job at a company.

39 . Foul play – Cheating Example: The police suspected foul play in the sudden disappearance of the valuable painting from the museum.

40 . A fish out of water – Anyone in an awkward Example: Sarah felt like a fish out of water at the fancy gala, surrounded by wealthy socialites and unfamiliar customs.

41 . A burnt child dreads the fire – One who has had a previous unpleasant experience is always scared of situations where such experiences are likely to be repeated Example: After getting food poisoning from a street vendor, she never ate street food again; a burnt child dreads the fire.

42 . To set the Thames on fire – To do something sensational or remarkable Example: It’s clear that he thinks he’s going to set the Thames on fire with his revolutionary ideas.

43 . A white elephant – A useless possession which is extremely expensive to keep Example: He was getting a great deal when he bought that antique vase, but it turned out to be a real white elephant.

44 . To throw dust in one’s eyes – To try to deceive someone or mislead someone Example: The company’s CEO tried to throw dust in everyone’s eyes by giving a carefully crafted speech.

45 . Every dog has his day – Sooner or later, everyone has his share of good fortune Example: When he unexpectedly won the Employee of the Month award, he proved that every dog has his day.

46 . Give a dog a bad name and hang him – Once a person loses his reputation Example: They’re just trying to give a dog a bad name and hang him, without any concrete evidence to support their claims.

47 . Go to the devil – Be off Example: After enduring his rude comments for far too long, Jane finally had enough and told him to go to the devil.

48 . To step into a dead man’s shoes – To come into an inheritance Example: Jane found herself having to step into the dead man’s shoes and lead the company through these challenging times.

49 . Halcyon Days – Refers to a period of peace, tranquillity, and happiness Example: She would often talk about the halcyon days she spent at her grandparents’ farm.

50 . Evil days – A period of misfortune Example: Many families struggled to make ends meet and faced evil days as they navigated through job losses and financial instability.

51 . Cut and dried – Readymade Example: Sarah was cut and dried, as she had consistently outperformed her colleagues and had the most experience in the department.

52 . Too many cooks spoil the broth – There are more workers than necessary leading to disappointment Example: Everyone had their own ideas for the project, but too many cooks spoiled the broth, and the final result ended up being confusing and ineffective.

53 . To commit to memory – To learn by heart Example: I spent hours studying the poem so that I could learn it by heart and recite it perfectly during the poetry recitation competition.

54 . To throw cold water upon anything – To discourage efforts Example: The manager threw cold water on their ambitious ideas by pointing out the potential budget constraints.

55 . A cock and bull story – A foolishly incredible story His explanation for why he was late to the meeting was a foolishly incredible story about being abducted by aliens.

56 . Close-fisted – To be mean Example: As known for being close-fisted when it came to lending money to his friends.

57 . To square the circle – To attempt something impossible Example: Trying to convince her strict parents to let her go on a solo backpacking trip was like trying to square the circle.

58 . The ball is in your court – Refers to the fact that it’s time for action now Example: She did her best and the ball is now in your court.

59 . To pick and choose – To make a careful selection Example: She can’t just pick and choose which tasks she wants to do.

60 . Clean Bill of Health – A person or a system or organisation has been examined and found in good condition, without facing any significant problems or issues. Example: The company’s financial statements and issued a clean bill of health.

61 . Stress out – Means to become extremely anxious, overwhelmed, or mentally strained Example: She’s been really stressed out lately because of her heavy workload.

62 . She is no chicken – She is older than she says Example: Despite her age, she is no chicken when it comes to taking on challenging tasks and responsibilities.

63 . Clean Swipe – Winning without facing any defeat. Example: The ruling party made a clean sweep in the election, winning all the seats in the parliament.

64 . To Catch One’s Eye – To attract attention Example: Her vibrant red dress and confident demeanour were enough to catch anyone’s eye as she walked into the room.

65 . Care killed the cat – Don’t fret and worry yourself to death Example: She couldn’t resist opening the mysterious package despite the warning label and care killed the cat.

66 . To burn the candle at both ends – Expend energy in two directions at the same time Example: Seems like he’s been burning the candle at both ends, trying to balance his responsibilities.

67 . Good wine needs no bush – no need to advertise something good Example: Handcrafted wines spread far and wide, proving that good wine needs no bush.

68 . To kick the bucket – To die Example: He was truly prepared to kick the bucket on his feet rather than live on his knees.

69 . If the cap fits, wear it – If the remarks refer to you, then accept the criticism Example: Well, if the cap fits, wear it. You’ve been known to misplace things too.

70 . To make bricks without straw – To do something without proper materials Example: Trying to complete this project with such limited resources feels like trying to make bricks without straw.

71 . A Bolt from the Blue – Something completely unexpected that surprises you Example: Getting a job offer from that prestigious company was like a bolt from the blue.

72 . In Cold Blood – Deliberately Example: In cold blood, she betrayed her closest friend, revealing all of their secrets to the world without a hint of remorse.

73 . To bite the dust – To be defeated in battle Example: The ambitious project eventually bit the dust due to a lack of funding and support.

74 . Behind the scenes – In private Example: Behind the scenes, the dedicated team of engineers worked tirelessly to ensure the flawless execution of the event.

75 . To cause bad blood – To create feelings of resentment, hostility, or animosity Example: Spreading rumours about others eventually caused bad blood between her and the rest of the office.

76 . To backbite a person – To speak negatively about someone in their absence Example: Sarah often backbites her colleagues, spreading rumours about them when they are not around.

77 . Bag and baggage – The idiom is used to indicate the entirety of someone’s belongings Example: They left nothing behind, departing with their bag and baggage.

78 . To have no backbone – Used to describe someone who lacks courage Example: He never takes any action to improve his situation; it’s clear that he has no backbone.

79 . To take up arms – To prepare for battle or engage in a conflict Example: The labor union decided to take up arms against unfair working conditions.

80 . On pins and needles – To be anxious or agitated She was on pins and needles when I went on for the first time.

81 . Below the belt – To pass a disrespectful, insulting or unethical comment Example: One candidate resorted to personal attacks and hit below the belt by bringing up his opponent’s family issues.

82 . Roll up your sleeves – To prepare for hard work, mainly physical task Example: She rolled up her sleeves and helped the team instantly.

83 . The other side of the coin – To look at different aspects of a situation Example: Teams might elevate the sales rate but the other side of the coin is overburdening the employees.

84 . Rock the boat – Doing something that causes problems Example: We already have too much homework; let’s not rock the boat and get more!

85 . Take with a pinch of salt – When someone tells you something based on their opinion, rather than facts or evidence. Take his advice with a pinch of salt, he is not very experienced in this field.

86 . Call it a night – Halt your evening or nighttime activities. Probably best to call it a night for today!

87 . Clean as a whistle – Meaning is free from dirt Example: Like a fresh start, everything was clean as a whistle.

88 . Two heads are better than one – Refers to the idea that having more than one person participate in an activity improves the quality. Example: Since two heads are better than one when it comes to solving problems.

89 . A Rising tide lifts all boats – It is associated with economic growth, wealth, and prosperity. Example: How a rising tide lifts all boats, as it helps the major corporate sector employees save money.

90 . Like a cat on hot tin roof – In an uneasy or nervous state Example : She’s waiting for the doctor to call with her test results, so she’s been like a cat on a hot tin roof all day.

Also Read:  Idioms for Beginners

Here are the most common 30 idioms with their meanings and sentences:

1 . Shoot from the hip Meaning: To speak bluntly or rashly without thinking carefully Example : Don’t feel bad about what he said. He has a habit of shooting from the hip, but he means no harm

2. Shoot oneself in the foot Meaning: To harm one’s own cause inadvertently Example : Foolishly harm one’s own cause, as in He really shot himself in the foot, telling the interviewer all about the others who were applying for the job he wanted.

3. In cold blood Meaning : If you do something violent and cruel in cold blood, you do it deliberately and in an unemotional way. Example : In a purposely ruthless and unfeeling manner, as in The whole family was murdered in cold blood. 

4 . Draw first blood Meaning: If you draw first blood, you cause the first damage to an opponent in a conflict or contest. Example : To be the first to gain an advantage or score against an opponent. I drew first blood in the tournament and quickly dispatched my opponent.

5. Ace up one’s sleeve Meaning: A secret or hidden advantage that you can use when you need it Example: Cheating at a card game by hiding a favourable card up one’s sleeve. I have an ace up my sleeve for this race—my stamina.

6. Play your cards right Meaning: To behave or work in a way that gives you an advantage or improves your odds of success. Example:  Play your cards right in college and you’ll get a great job after you graduate

7. Egg on your face Meaning: If you’ve egg on your face, you look stupid and face embarrassment because of something you’ve done. Example: Terry had an egg on his face after boasting that the examinations were really easy, but ended up failing most of his papers.

8. Kill the goose that lays the golden eggs Meaning: To destroy something that gives you a lot of money to get immediate returns Example:  Tearing down the top attraction in the theme park, “The Haunted House”, would be akin to killing the goose that lays the golden egg.

9. An arm and a leg Meaning: If something costs an arm and a leg, it costs a lot. Example :  I want to buy a house by the beach, but it may cost me an arm and a leg.

10. Behind one’s back Meaning : If you do something behind someone’s back, you do it secretly without their knowledge (used negatively). Example: My colleague is nice to me but I don’t trust him because I know he talks negatively about me behind my back

11. Stab someone in the back Meaning: Harm someone who trusts you. Example : Don’t trust George; he’s been known to stab his friends in the back

12. Take a back seat Meaning: If you take a back seat, you choose not to be in a position of responsibility or power. Example : The founder of the company decided to take a back seat and let the board members run the business.

13. Back to the drawing board Meaning : If you go back to the drawing board, you make a fresh start or try another idea because the earlier one didn’t succeed. Example : It looks like my plans to kill the weeds in the garden failed. Back to the drawing board

14. Right off the bat Meaning : If you do something right off the bat, you do it immediately. Example: Nathan was in the mood for a cheeseburger, so he hopped into his car and bought some fast food. After unwrapping the burger, he took a bite and right off the bat he knew that something was wrong; it didn’t taste right.

15. Heart misses (skips) a beat Meaning: If your heart misses a beat, you feel excited or nervous. Example : Her heart missed a beat when she heard her name called out in the list of finalists, or When the bear appeared in front of us, my heart skipped a beat, or My heart stands still at the very thought of flying through a thunderstorm

16. Have your heart in your mouth Meaning: If you’ve your heart in your mouth, you’re feeling extremely nervous. Example :  You sure don’t seem relaxed—in fact, it seems like your heart is in your mouth.

17. Not the only fish in the sea Meaning: Not the only suitable thing or person one can find Example: When Bob walked out on Sally, all we could tell her was that he was not the only fish in the sea, or Bill knew she wasn’t the only pebble on the beach but he was determined to win her over.

18. Not your cup of tea Meaning: If you say that someone or something is not your cup of tea, you mean that they’re not the kind of person or thing you like. Example : We couldn’t decide which movie to watch, so we ended up settling on a comedy. Halfway through the movie, I concluded that its humour was not my cup of tea.

19 . A piece of cake Meaning : If something is a piece of cake, it’s easy to do. Example: The boy found the project to be a piece of cake because it was incredibly easy.

20 . Call it a day Meaning : If you call it a day, you stop what you’re doing because you’re tired of it or you’ve not been successful. Example : I think we have done enough work today, I am feeling tired now, let’s call it a day.

21. The pot calling the kettle black Meaning: Accusing someone of faults that you have Example: I can’t believe that you are upset because I was late. That is the pot calling the kettle black. Peter called me a liar! That is the pot calling the kettle black.

22. Call a spade a spade Meaning: To speak the truth even if it’s unpleasant Example : That dress made her look fat, let’s call a spade a spade before she goes out wearing it and embarrasses herself . 

23. A bolt from the blue Meaning : A sudden, unexpected event Example : Let us hope the pandemic disappears. It came as a bolt from the blue in 2020.

24 . In the same boat Meaning: If two or more persons are in the same boat, they’re in the same difficult situation. Example : If you lose your job, I’ll lose mine. We are both in the same boat.

25. Miss the boat/ bus Meaning: To miss an opportunity Example: He missed the boat when he did not apply for the job in time. 

26 . Over my dead body Meaning : If you say something will happen to your dead body, you mean you dislike it and will do everything you can to prevent it. Example : I told John that he could shave his head, over my dead body. 

27 . Make one’s blood boil Meaning : To make someone extremely angry Example : When I hear stories of cruelty to animals, it makes my blood boil.

28. Bounce something off someone Meaning: If you bounce something off someone, you discuss ideas or plan with someone to get their view on it. Example: I caught the rubber ball when it bounced off the wall. The light bouncing off of that mirror is blinding me—can we close the curtains?

29. Bell the cat Meaning : To undertake a risky or dangerous task. Example : Someone has to bell the cat and tell the commissioner that his own started the violence.

30. Pour out one’s heart

Meaning: To express openly

Example: I can’t pour my heart out to you if you are too distracted by everything around you.

Sometimes it’s difficult to express yourself, so idioms help you to express your feelings in a better and more sophisticated way. There are a lot of idioms you can use to express happiness, some of them are mentioned below.

• On Top of The World : She was on top of the world after he agreed to marry him.
• In Seventh Heaven : I was in seventh heaven when I saw my appraisal letter.
• Over The Moon : When she sent me chocolates and a note, I was over the moon.
• Walking on Air : He’s been walking on air ever since he got the job.
• On Cloud Nine: She was on cloud nine when she saw her result.

Also Read:   Top 10 Idioms For Excitement That You Should Know!

Here are the top 10 idioms related to money, along with their meanings and examples:

• Break the Bank : To spend a lot of money or exceed one’s budget.
• Rolling in Dough: To be very wealthy or have a lot of money.
• Penny-Pincher ; Someone who is extremely frugal and careful with their money.
• Cash Cow : A consistent and reliable source of income or profits.
• Broke the Bank : To deplete all available funds; to spend more than expected or affordable.
• Cost an Arm and a Leg : Something that is very expensive.
• In the Black : To be financially successful
• On a Shoestring Budget : Operating with very limited funds or resources.
• Money Talks : The power and influence that come with having a lot of money.
• Rob Peter to Pay Paul : To take from one source to pay off another, often resulting in a cycle of debt or financial instability.

Also Read: 9+ Best Idioms for Angry You Should Know

Here are 10 idioms that convey the idea of greatness, along with their meanings and examples:

• The Bee’s Knees : Her performance in the play was simply the bee’s knees
• The Cream of the Crop : Only the cream of the crop made it to the final round of the quiz.
• A Cut Above the Rest : His culinary skills were a cut above the rest, making him the top chef in town.
• Have the World at One’s Feet : After winning the championship, he seemed to have the world at his feet.
• In a League of One’s Own : Her dedication to her craft put her in a league of her own among her peers.
• Rise Above the Crowd : Her ability to stay focused helped her rise above the crowd and achieve her goals.
• Second to None : The quality of their customer service is second to none in the industry.
• Stand Head and Shoulders Above : Her innovative approach to problem-solving allowed her to stand head and shoulders above her colleagues

Also Read: Top 9 Idioms for Expensive You Should Know!

Here are some of the best idioms that every kid should know:

• A Piece of Cake : The math test was a piece of cake for me.
• Break a Leg : Break a leg on your performance tonight.
• Cat Got Your Tongue : Why aren’t you answering my call? Cat got your tongue?
• Cry over Spilled Milk : Don’t cry over spilt milk, let’s just clean it up.

Explore more exciting reads on idioms here!

It’s raining cats and dogs is an idiom, that means it is raining very hard.

Idioms are expressions that are difficult to understand by examining the meanings of their constituent words alone. We frequently utilize colloquial language. Your friend is avoiding having a frank conversation with you if they are “beating around the bush.”

It’s a doddle, it means there’s nothing to it.

Get your act together, it means you need to improve your behaviour/work Pull yourself together, it means calm down I’m feeling under the weather, it means I’m sick It’s a piece of cake, it means it’s easy Break a leg, it means good luck

A set of words, or, to put it another way, a phrase, that has a meaning beyond the words’ literal meanings is known as an idiom.

Idioms should not be utilised in writing for academic or professional purposes.

Learning idioms with examples and their meaning is the best way to master them and make your writing more engaging. Try to practice idioms with examples of your own. If you wish to seek further guidance on your English-language proficiency test preparation like TOEFL or IELTS and your career, you can check out  Leverage Edu  today and schedule a free consultation session now.

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22 comments

Good collection of idioms

Thank you, Ashok!

Very impressive I like to read this such a very nice

Thank you, Vaishnavi!

It should be exam oriented

To learn idioms and their meanings

awesomely explained idioms with examples and meanings. Really HELPFUL !!!!!

Thank you for the comment!

Very useful

very super idioms but it is average next time do it well

Thankyou for the suggestion.

I would really like to use idioms more often when communicating in English please send more with examples

We’ll surely add more of these in this blog as per your suggestion. Thank you for reading!

I am very impressed with your website. I get such invaluable material form it. Thank you so much

Hi Ruth, We are delighted that you found our blog interesting to read and helpful. Here are some more interesting and useful reads for you to have a look upon: 1. https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-vocabulary/ 2. https://leverageedu.com/blog/50-difficult-words-with-meanings/ 3. https://leverageedu.com/blog/daily-used-english-words/ 4. https://leverageedu.com/blog/idioms-with-examples/

This website is the best to learn idioms through examples & meaning.I extremely love this website .

Hey! Thank you for your feedback.

You can also read our grammar blogs on- https://leverageedu.com/blog/adjectives/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/grammar-for-class-10/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/metaphors/

I love this article it is well detailed.

Thankyou for such a positive feedback 🙂

So Interesting

Hi, Thanks for your valuable feedback!

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