Common Idioms in Everyday English
Idioms are phrases that don’t mean exactly what the words say. They add colour and personality to English, but they can be confusing for learners. The good news? Many idioms are used so often in everyday conversation that you can easily learn them—and sound more natural when you speak.
In this post, we’ll look at some of the most common idioms used in modern English. These are phrases you’re likely to hear in everyday conversations, movies, and TV shows. Plus, we’ll include examples that reflect how people really use them.
1. Break the ice
Meaning:
To do or say something to make people feel more comfortable in a social situation.
Example:
• “He told a funny story at the start of the meeting to break the ice.”
Note:
This is often used when meeting new people or starting a conversation in an uncomfortable or formal setting.
2. Hit the nail on the head
Meaning:
To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem; to say something that is exactly right.
Example:
• “When you said we need more staff, you really hit the nail on the head.”
Note:
This idiom is often used in meetings or discussions when someone gives a perfect summary or answer.
3. Under the weather
Meaning:
To feel slightly ill or unwell.
Example:
• “I’m feeling a bit under the weather today, so I think I’ll stay home.”
Note:
This is a gentle way to say you’re not feeling well. In British English, people often avoid saying they are sick unless it’s serious.
4. Piece of cake
Meaning:
Something that is very easy to do.
Example:
• “The exam was a piece of cake. I finished it in half the time.”
Note:
This is commonly used to describe tasks that turned out to be easier than expected.
5. Cost an arm and a leg
Meaning:
Something that is very expensive.
Example:
• “That new car cost me an arm and a leg, but it was worth it.”
Note:
British speakers often use humour when talking about expensive things, and this idiom is a common way to exaggerate the price.
6. Let the cat out of the bag
Meaning:
To reveal a secret by mistake.
Example:
• “He let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.”
Note:
This idiom often comes up when someone accidentally gives away a piece of information they were supposed to keep quiet.
7. The ball is in your court
Meaning:
It’s your turn to take action or make a decision.
Example:
• “I’ve done all I can, so the ball is in your court now.”
Cultural note:
This comes from tennis, and it’s often used in business or decision-making situations to indicate that responsibility has moved to the other person/team.
8. Burn the midnight oil
Meaning:
To work late into the night.
Example:
• “She burned the midnight oil to finish her presentation before the deadline.”
Note:
This idiom is often used in work or study contexts, especially when someone makes an extra effort.
9. On the same page
Meaning:
To agree or have the same understanding about something.
Example:
• “Let’s have a quick meeting to make sure we’re all on the same page.”
Note:
This idiom is commonly used in British workplaces to check that everyone understands a plan or situation.
10. Spill the beans
Meaning:
To tell a secret or reveal hidden information.
Example:
• “Come on, spill the beans! What did he say about me?”
Note:
Often used informally between friends when asking someone to share information or gossip.
Practice
Which idiom would be appropriate for these situations?
1. You stayed at your office until 11pm, working on a report.
2. You bought a new phone and it was much more expensive than you thought it would be.
3. You meet a new group of people at a party and tell a joke to make everyone feel comfortable.
4. You accidentally tell your friend about a surprise party they weren’t supposed to know about.
5. You and your coworker have the same understanding of how to finish a project.
Quick Summary
• Break the ice – Make people feel comfortable
• Hit the nail on the head – Say something exactly right
• Under the weather – Feel slightly ill
• Piece of cake – Very easy
• Cost an arm and a leg – Very expensive
• Let the cat out of the bag – Reveal a secret
• The ball is in your court – It’s your turn to act
• Burn the midnight oil – Work late
• On the same page – Agree or have the same understanding
• Spill the beans – Tell a secret