Idioms beginning with I
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idle hands are the devil’s tools
Meaning: if you have nothing to do, you are likely to do some mischief
Example: All the kids should be kept busy while you are away; idle hands are the devil's tools. Read more ➺
Meaning: when something good is added to another good thing that you already have
Example: Everyone expected him to do well in the exams. Getting first rank was the icing on the cake. Read more ➺
Meaning: This is an expression of not believing something very strongly.
Example: If you are really able to climb that 8 feet wall by yourself then I'll eat my hat. Read more ➺
if wishes were horses, beggars would ride
Meaning: To wish for things does not yield to anything.
Example: She told me she wanted to become Miss Universe and I said, "If wishes were horses, beggars would ride". How else was I to react to such an absurd thing? Read more ➺
Meaning: In the moment, instantly.
Example: I will be there in a trice, stop calling me so often. Read more ➺
if it’s not one thing, it’s the other
Meaning: Expresses frustration when multiple problems occur one after another.
Example: If it's not one thing, it's the other—first the car broke down, now the power’s out. Read more ➺
Meaning: Used when surprised by an unexpected encounter or connection.
Example: I ran into my childhood friend in Paris—it's a small world! Read more ➺
Meaning: certain actions or activities cannot be performed alone - they need two people to participate
Example: Don't blame me for the argument. It takes two to tango! You are equally responsible. Read more ➺
Meaning: one after another
Example: He often works in tandem with an engineer, one coding for the website and the other taking care of website design. Read more ➺
Meaning: In a state of strong anger or resentment.
Example: Sarah left the meeting in high dudgeon after her proposal was ignored. Read more ➺
