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: the ability to easily turn any venture into a profitable success, as if by magic.
Example: Ever since she started her company, she's had the Midas touch with every product launch. Read more ➺
Meaning: The term "state of the art" refers to the highest level of development achieved in a particular field at a given time, especially regarding technology or scientific advancements.
Example: The new smartphone features a state-of-the-art camera system that captures stunningly detailed images. Read more ➺
Meaning: An individual who reveals confidential information: Someone, often an employee, who exposes illegal or unethical behavior within an organization to the public or authorities.
Example: The whistle blower provided documents proving that the company was dumping toxic waste into the river. Read more ➺
Meaning: pursuing an unrealistic or impossible goal.
Example: Those who only chase rainbows end up disappointed. Read more ➺
Meaning: directly involved in or affected by a highly controversial or difficult situation.
Example: As the debate heated up, he realized he was in the eye of the storm. Read more ➺
Meaning: Impossible or highly unlikely to happen.
Example: She'll agree to go camping when pigs fly; she hates the outdoors. Read more ➺
Meaning: to spend money for something, particularly when the expense is unexpected and unwanted.
Example: They had to shell out $50 for parking at the event. Read more ➺
Meaning: confused or unsure about what to do.
Example: After starting the new job, she felt completely at sea with all the new procedures. Read more ➺
Meaning: a person who is strong and resilient in difficult situations.
Example: Despite the setbacks, Jenna proved she was a tough cookie and finished the project on time. Read more ➺
Meaning: an offer of peace or reconciliation, especially after conflict or disagreement.
Example: After their long argument, he extended an olive branch by inviting her to dinner. Read more ➺
View the complete list of all idioms we have on our website. Read more ➺
