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.
Its symbolic sense differs from the definition or literal meaning of the words that make it. Idioms convey a figurative meaning that is difficult to understand solely by interpreting the words literally. For instance, “beyond the pale” means something is “over the line” or improper. You can only know that by being able to infer the phrase’s meaning based on context or if someone explains it to you.
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.
So why are idiomatic expressions difficult?
They are difficult because their meanings are not always easy to understand. This is particularly the case for non-native speakers of the language in question, since their intentions are typically symbolic. Due to this characteristic, English learners find them strange and hard to understand.
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: A deceptive tactic where a low-priced item is advertised but replaced with a costlier product.
Example: The store’s bait and switch left many customers frustrated when the advertised deal was no longer available. Read more ➺
Meaning: Indicates that trouble, conflict, or a difficult situation is about to arise.
Example: The dark clouds gathered, and we knew a storm is brewing before the big game. Read more ➺
Meaning: Refers to eating very little or consuming small amounts of food.
Example: She always eats like a bird, barely finishing half of her salad. Read more ➺
Meaning: To engage in actions that are risky or verge on being illegal or improper.
Example: The journalist sailed close to the wind by publishing classified information but avoided legal action. Read more ➺
Meaning: Describes a situation where individuals are positioned extremely close together, leaving little to no space for movement.
Example: During rush hour, commuters were packed like sardines on the subway. Read more ➺
Meaning: Describes a person who is completely devoid of emotion, empathy, or warmth.
Example: After hearing the tragic news, she remained as cold as stone, showing no visible reaction. Read more ➺
Meaning: It indicates that overall economic growth benefits everyone.
Example: The government's infrastructure investments boosted the economy, demonstrating that a rising tide lifts all boats. Read more ➺
Meaning: Begin to work or study hard, especially after a period of not doing much.
Example: With exams approaching, it's time to knuckle down and study. Read more ➺
Meaning: To estimate or judge something by visual assessment without precise measurement.
Example: The doctor examined the patient's eyeball for any signs of infection. Read more ➺
Meaning: Completely controlled by someone; at someone's command.
Example: Despite his public bravado, he was under his manager's thumb when it came to career decisions. Read more ➺
View the complete list of all idioms we have on our website. Read more ➺
