Idioms
What is an Idiom?
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be determined from the individual words alone. The phrase has developed a special meaning through common usage.
It's raining cats and dogs — this doesn't mean pets are falling from the sky. It means it's raining very heavily.
Why Idioms Are Tricky
Idioms are non-literal, which means you must learn them by exposure, not by analysing the words. They can be confusing for learners of English as a second language.
Common English Idioms
| Idiom | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Break a leg | Good luck |
| Hit the nail on the head | Be exactly right |
| Under the weather | Feeling ill |
| Cost an arm and a leg | Very expensive |
| Once in a blue moon | Very rarely |
| Bite the bullet | Endure a difficult situation |
| Spill the beans | Reveal a secret |
| A piece of cake | Something very easy |
| Bite off more than you can chew | Take on more than you can handle |
| Let the cat out of the bag | Accidentally reveal a secret |
Idioms in Writing
Idioms add colour and naturalness to writing, especially in informal contexts. However, avoid them in formal academic writing, where precise language is expected.
How to Learn Idioms
The best way is exposure — reading widely, watching films and TV, and noting idioms you encounter. Keep a notebook of new ones with their meanings and example sentences.