English Idioms
Sayings that make English more colorful! Discover fun and useful idioms to boost your English skills!
Barking up the Wrong Tree
To make the wrong choice. To make a wrong assumption about someone. Example- If he expects to borrow my bike, he is barking up the wrong tree.
Hang in There
To continue to do something despite difficulties. Example- School can be tough around exam time but hang in there and it will all be fine.
When Pigs Fly
Something unlikely to happen. Example- I’m sure you will clean your room when pigs fly!
Ball Is in Your Court
It is up to you to make the next decision. Example- I’ve done everything I can to help, and now the ball is in your court.
Fly on the Wall
You would like to see or hear something that doesn’t involve you. Example- I’d love to be a fly on the wall to hear their conversation.
Let the Cat Out of the Bag
To reveal a secret. Example- Susan just let the cat out of the bag by discussing the surprise birthday party.
Beat Around the Bush
Saying many important things to avoid talking about what is important. Example- Stop beating around the bush! Just tell me what is on your mind.
A Blessing in Disguise
Something that seems bad at first but turns out to be good. Example- Missing the school trip was a blessing in disguise—I got to go to a theme park with my family!
Raining Cats and Dogs
A very heavy rainstorm. Example- It’s raining cats and dogs!
Thumbs Up
You agree with someone or give something your approval. Example- Critics gave the movie a thumbs up.
Straight from the Horse’s Mouth
To hear something from the person who has direct personal knowledge of it. Example- I heard the news straight from the horse’s mouth.
Piece of Cake
A very easy task. Example- I was worried about the test today, but it was a piece of cake.
Under the Weather
This is used when you are not feeling well. Example- Tanya was feeling under the weather, so she took the day off.
Go Bananas
Go bananas means to become very excited or silly. Example- When it was time for recess, the kids went bananas and started cheering!
Elephant in the Room
An obvious problem everyone is aware of but chooses to ignore.. Example- When Tim forgot his homework, it was the elephant in the room no one wanted to talk about.
In Hot Water
To be in trouble or a difficult situation. Example- When Leo forgot to do his homework, he knew he was in hot water with his teacher!
Hit the Sack
This means to go to bed. Example- I am so tired. I think I’ll hit the sack.
Apple of My Eye
Someone highly cherished by you. Example- You are the apple of my eye.
It’s Not Rocket Science
It’s not rocket science. You do not think something is difficult to do. Example- You can fix your bike. It’s not rocket science!
At the Drop of a Hat
To do immediately, without delay. Example- He is ready to go at the drop of a hat.
Once in a Blue Moon
Something extremely rare. Example- He comes around once in a blue moon.
An Arm and a Leg
A large amount of money. Very expensive. Example- This new car cost me an arm and a leg.
A Penny for Your Thoughts
A phrase used to ask someone what they are thinking about. Example- I’ll give you a penny for your thoughts.