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: A period in fall and winter when people seek short-term relationships for companionship.
Example: As the leaves began to fall, she realized cuffing season was in full swing. Read more ➺
Meaning: To replicate the actions of someone else, typically because they are seen as a model or leader.
Example: After seeing the team's success, many companies decided to follow suit and adopt similar strategies. Read more ➺
Meaning: Have a very beneficial or transformative effect on someone or something.
Example: A short walk in the fresh air works wonders for clearing the mind. Read more ➺
Meaning: Denotes a period of hardship or necessity.
Example: She always keeps a little extra money for a rainy day, just in case something unexpected happens. Read more ➺
Meaning: Describes a group with strong emotional bonds and mutual support.
Example: Our close-knit family always supports each other during tough times. Read more ➺
Meaning: Do everything that can possibly be done.
Example: She was willing to move mountains to get her child the best medical care. Read more ➺
Meaning: Refers to a point or stage during a process, timeline, or sequence of events.
Example: Somewhere along the line, we must have lost the original plan. Read more ➺
Meaning: Double meaning; hidden meaning or double sense.
Example: The comedian's joke was full of double entendre, making the audience laugh for more than one reason. Read more ➺
cut off one’s nose to spite one’s face
Meaning: An excessive or irrational reaction to a problem that makes the situation worse.
Example: Don’t let your anger make you cut off your nose to spite your face. Read more ➺
Meaning: Keep working hard without taking breaks, especially on a task that requires focus and effort over a long time.
Example: You’ll do well here if you keep your nose to the grindstone and stay focused. Read more ➺
View the complete list of all idioms we have on our website. Read more ➺
