Common english idioms

15 Common English Idioms for Language Learners

Table Of Contents
  1. 15 Common English Idioms You Should Know 🗣️
  2. What are Idioms? 🤔
  3. 15 Must-Know English Idioms
  4. Additional Helpful Content for Intermediate Learners
  5. Practice Makes Perfect! 💪
  6. Additional Links

15 Common English Idioms You Should Know 🗣️

Learning English involves more than just grammar and vocabulary; understanding idioms is crucial for sounding natural and comprehending native speakers. Idioms are phrases whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meanings of the words in them. This article will introduce you to 15 common English idioms that intermediate learners should know, complete with examples and a handy chart!

What are Idioms? 🤔

Idioms add color and nuance to the English language. They often stem from historical events, literature, or everyday life. While they can seem confusing at first, mastering common idioms will significantly boost your comprehension and fluency.

Tip: Don’t try to memorize too many idioms at once. Focus on understanding the meaning and context of each one. Practice using them in your own sentences.

15 Must-Know English Idioms

Here are 15 common English idioms, categorized for easier understanding:

1. Related to Time:

IdiomMeaningExample
Once in a blue moonVery rarely“I only go to the cinema once in a blue moon.”
Beat the clockFinish something before the deadline“We need to beat the clock to get this project done by Friday.”
Around the clockAll day and all night; continuously“The doctors worked around the clock to save the patient’s life.”

2. Related to Difficulty:

IdiomMeaningExample
A piece of cakeVery easy“The exam was a piece of cake.”
Break a legGood luck (often said before a performance)“You have your presentation tomorrow? Break a leg!”
Hit the booksStudy hard“I have a big test next week, so I need to hit the books.”

3. Related to Feelings & Reactions:

IdiomMeaningExample
Bite the bulletEndure a difficult or unpleasant situation“I didn’t want to pay so much for the repair, but I had to bite the bullet.”
Get something off your chestConfess something that has been bothering you“I need to get something off my chest – I’ve been feeling guilty.”
In the same boatIn the same difficult situation as others“We’re all in the same boat with this new company policy.”

4. Related to Everyday Life:

IdiomMeaningExample
See eye to eyeAgree with someone“My sister and I don’t always see eye to eye on everything.”
Cost an arm and a legVery expensive“That new car cost an arm and a leg.”
Let the cat out of the bagReveal a secret“Please don’t let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.”

5. Related to Effort & Success:

IdiomMeaningExample
Go the extra mileDo more than what is expected“She always goes the extra mile for her clients.”
Hit the nail on the headSay exactly the right thing“You’ve hit the nail on the head – that’s exactly the problem!”
Pull someone’s legTo joke with someone, often by teasing“Don’t worry, I was just pulling your leg.”

Tip: Pay attention to how native speakers use idioms in movies, TV shows, and conversations. This will help you understand their nuances and use them correctly.

Additional Helpful Content for Intermediate Learners

  • Understand the Context: The meaning of an idiom can sometimes change slightly depending on the situation. Pay attention to the context in which the idiom is used.
  • Don’t Use Too Many: While idioms can make your English sound more natural, using too many at once can sound unnatural or even confusing. Use them sparingly and appropriately.
  • Focus on Common Idioms: Start by learning the most frequently used idioms. The 15 listed above are a great starting point.
  • Be Aware of Regional Differences: Some idioms might be more common in certain English-speaking countries than others.

Practice Makes Perfect! 💪

Try using these idioms in your own sentences. You can also:

  • Create flashcards: Write the idiom on one side and the meaning and an example on the other.
  • Keep a notebook: Jot down new idioms you encounter and their context.
  • Practice with a language partner: Try to incorporate idioms into your conversations.

Here is a PDF worksheet you can download to practice using English idioms. The answers are on a separate page.

Common English IdiomsDownload

Additional Links

External Links for Further Learning 🔗

Encouragement: Learning idioms takes time and effort, but it’s a rewarding part of mastering the English language. Keep practicing, and soon these phrases will become second nature! You’ve got this! 👍

Author: Teacher Kay

Teacher Kay: Experienced English Educator Teacher Kay is a highly experienced English teacher with over 15 years dedicated to guiding foreign students. Holding two college degrees and TEFL certified, he brings a strong academic background and specialized training to his role. Known for his engaging and inclusive teaching style, Teacher Kay excels at helping students build fluency and confidence. His extensive experience allows him to tailor strategies to diverse learners, simplifying complex concepts and fostering natural communication skills. He is a patient and caring mentor, committed to his students' success in mastering English and adapting to new linguistic environments.
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