Idioms
An idiom is a group of words, a saying, or a phrase with a symbolic rather than literal meaning that is accepted in common usage. It is a form of artistic expression characteristic of a movement, period, individual, medium, or instrument.
An idiom’s figurative meaning is different from the literal definition of its individual words. Idioms convey concepts that are difficult to grasp solely through word reading. For example, the phrase “when pigs fly” means something will never happen, a meaning that isn’t obvious without context or explanation.
Many different idioms exist, and people use them commonly in all languages. Translating them into other languages can be challenging because some meanings may be lost. Still, equivalents that fill in the gaps between languages exist. The English language has an unlimited number of idiomatic expressions.
Idiomatic expressions are the building blocks of civilization and language. They make the language evolve. The great intensity of idioms makes a language dynamic and interesting. Phrases bring a remarkable illustration to daily speech and offer compelling insights into the use of languages, words, and the speaker’s thought process. There is a sense of fun and mystery about idioms.
Why are idiomatic expressions challenging?
They can be difficult because their meanings aren’t always clear at first glance. This is especially true for non-native speakers, as idioms often carry symbolic or figurative meanings. As a result, English learners often find them unusual and tricky to grasp.
Top 10 Common Idioms
This is a list of the top ten most common English phrases and idioms used globally. We have provided their meaning and examples for teachers and students. Students also explain the meaning of idiomatic expressions in competitive exams. The popularity of an idiom can vary from region to region. However, this list is generally popular worldwide.
Meaning: a controversial issue or situation that is awkward to deal with.
Example: Addressing the issue of bullying in our school has become a hot potato. Read more ➺
Meaning: something that is easy to do
Example: Learning English is a piece of cake as long as you do it with our website. Read more ➺
Meaning: very rarely
Example: I go to visit my grandfather only once in a blue moon; he lives in a remote farm house. Read more ➺
Meaning: easy option
Example: Taking care of my younger sister is no bed of roses; she is very silly. Read more ➺
Meaning: raining very heavily
Example: I wanted to go to play outside, but it was raining cats and dogs yesterday. Read more ➺
Meaning: something that will never happen or is impossible.
Example: William will keep quiet only when pigs fly. Read more ➺
Meaning: one who presents a counter argument
Example: Hey Jack! You're always playing devil's advocate! Give it a rest and mind your own business. Read more ➺
Meaning: miss the chance.
Example: Peter wanted to enter the drawing competition, but he was too late to enter, and he missed the boat. Read more ➺
Meaning: someone very precious or dear
Example: Every kid in the world is the apple of their parents' eye(s). Read more ➺
Meaning: to stop talking
Example: I don't want to hear another sound out of you. Now do as you're told and zip your lip. Read more ➺
Download as PDF fileLatest Idioms
Meaning: Kind and considerate people often lose out in competitive situations to those who are more aggressive.
Example: He treated her with respect, but nice guys finish last when charm wins over honesty. Read more ➺
Meaning: To deny access, help, or participation to someone.
Example: The security guard turned away the visitors who arrived after closing time. Read more ➺
Meaning: Indicates becoming excessively ambitious or greedy, leading to one's downfall.
Example: Despite repeated warnings, Alex flew too close to the sun by investing all his savings in risky stocks. Read more ➺
Meaning: A public clamor or outburst of protest against an issue or action.
Example: The government's new policy sparked a hue and cry from the public, demanding its immediate withdrawal. Read more ➺
Meaning: Describes a task that is exceedingly simple to accomplish, often implying an unfair advantage due to the lack of challenge.
Example: Winning the debate against an unprepared opponent was like shooting fish in a barrel. Read more ➺
Meaning: Refers to something outstandingly good or excellent.
Example: Emma’s homemade cookies are the bee's knees; I could eat them all day! Read more ➺
Meaning: Experience a complete and utter failure.
Example: Despite months of preparation, their business went down in flames after a major financial setback. Read more ➺
Meaning: Additionally, used to indicate that something extra is included beyond what has already been mentioned.
Example: She got a promotion, and to boot, she received a bonus. Read more ➺
Meaning: To engage in a period of youthful indiscretion, often involving promiscuous or reckless behavior before settling down.
Example: In your youth, people often say you should sow your wild oats before settling down. Read more ➺
Meaning: To take the time to enjoy or appreciate things that are often overlooked in daily life.
Example: After months of stress, Sarah decided to stop and smell the roses by taking a weekend off. Read more ➺
View the complete list of all idioms we have on our website. Read more ➺
