Learning to use idioms in English
What are Idioms?
Have you ever had a conversation with an English speaker in which they’ve described themselves as being over the moon about something? Or maybe they’ve complained about something costing them an arm and a leg. If so, you’ll probably know that they didn’t mean the expression literally. These are called idioms.
Idioms are common phrases or expressions that have non-literal meanings attached to them. Normally, these meanings are difficult to guess from the individual words.
Let’s look at the idioms used in the first paragraph:
If someone is over the moon about something, it means they are very happy or pleased about it.
I was over the moon about having passed my exam.
If something costs an arm and a leg, it's very expensive.
My new car cost me an arm and a leg!
Guessing the Meaning of Idioms
If you see or hear the idiom used in context, you can sometimes work out the meaning. For the idioms below, see if you can work out the meaning from the example before looking at the definition:
Example: I know you're upset about losing the first match, but you have to pull yourself together. You've got another match in an hour!
Meaning: To calm yourself and control your emotions
Example: I've been putting off cleaning the garage, but it's about time I bite the bullet.
Meaning: To do something difficult or painful you cannot avoid
Example: Can you please stop making that noise? It's getting on my nerves.
Meaning: To find something annoying or irritating
Example: Sorry, but I won't make it to work today. I'm feeling under the weather.
Meaning: To feel ill or unwell
Example: Is that you Pedro? I haven't seen you in donkey's years!
Meaning: A very long time
Example: It's my first day working here, cut me some slack!
Meaning: Stop being so critical
Example: I was blown away by her performance. She's a great musician.
Meaning: To be impressed by something
Example: We've had another complaint? This is getting out of hand.
Meaning: To become difficult to control
Example: I was excited about my new job at first, but I think I've bitten off more than I can chew.
Meaning: To take on a task that is too difficult.
Example: I just finished my exam. It was a piece of cake!
Meaning: Something that is easily accomplished
Why are Idioms important?
Idioms might be confusing and frustrating at first, but they are an important part of communicating fluently and creatively. They can boost your confidence and conversational English skills, if you use them correctly!
To learn more about idioms and to practise using them, try out one of our online English courses. Just click here to get started with a free trial.
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