English Idioms
Sayings that make English more colorful! Discover fun and useful idioms to boost your English skills!
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.
Thumbs Up
You agree with someone or give something your approval. Example- Critics gave the movie a thumbs up.
Raining Cats and Dogs
A very heavy rainstorm. Example- It’s raining cats and dogs!
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.
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!
Piece of Cake
A very easy task. Example- I was worried about the test today, but it was a piece of cake.
Once in a Blue Moon
Something extremely rare. Example- He comes around once in a blue moon.
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.
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.
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!
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.
When Pigs Fly
Something unlikely to happen. Example- I’m sure you will clean your room when pigs fly!
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.
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!
An Arm and a Leg
A large amount of money. Very expensive. Example- This new car cost me an arm and a leg.
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.
At the Drop of a Hat
To do immediately, without delay. Example- He is ready to go at the drop of a hat.
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.
Hit the Sack
This means to go to bed. Example- I am so tired. I think I’ll hit the sack.
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!
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.
Apple of My Eye
Someone highly cherished by you. Example- You are the apple of my eye.