Idioms and phrases are an important part of the English language. In this section you will find many online resources, documents and e-books about English idioms. They add colour, depth and nuance to our everyday conversations. They can also be a source of confusion for ESL students. You don’t have to learn all English idioms (in fact, you can’t!). You should choose the ones you need for conversation, writing and reading. You can also download a number of free online e-books from the archive to help you learn English idioms and phrases.
Idioms are expressions or phrases that have a figurative meaning that is different from their literal interpretation. They often convey a concept, idea or feeling in a concise and vivid way, making language more dynamic and expressive.
Understanding idioms involves more than just knowing words; it’s about grasping their cultural and linguistic nuances. Take “kick the bucket” for example—it doesn’t literally mean kicking a bucket, but rather dying.
To master idiomatic expressions, immerse yourself in English through books, movies, music, and conversations with native speakers.
While idioms enhance your language, avoid excessive use as it can sound forced. Use them naturally into your daily speech and writing to enrich your language skills.
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Break the ice | To initiate a conversation or interaction | She told a joke to break the ice at the meeting. |
| Cost an arm and a leg | To be very expensive | That designer purse costs an arm and a leg. |
| Hit the nail on the head | To describe exactly what is needed or wanted | His explanation hit the nail on the head. |
| Bite the bullet | To face a difficult situation with courage | I had to bite the bullet and tell him the truth. |
| Piece of cake | Something very easy to do | Passing this test was a piece of cake for her. |
| Spill the beans | To reveal a secret or confidential information | Don’t spill the beans about the surprise party! |
| Under the weather | Feeling unwell or sick | She’s staying home today because she’s under the weather. |
| A dime a dozen | Something common and easy to acquire | Those souvenirs are a dime a dozen at the tourist shops. |
| Beat around the bush | Avoiding the main topic; not getting to the point | Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think. |
| Take it with a grain of salt | To not take something too seriously or literally | He tends to exaggerate, so take his stories with a grain of salt. |
