Do you know! It is very important to learn idioms in English. But before that if you are wondering about what an Idiom? Well, an idiom is a phrase or expression that cannot be understood from the literal meaning of the words, but instead has a figurative meaning that is usually culturally specific.
It is important to learn idioms in English because they are a part of the language used by native speakers and are often used in everyday conversation. Understanding idioms helps with communication and comprehension, and can also give insight into cultural values and beliefs. Additionally, using idioms can help with improving one’s fluency in a language.
20 Idioms in English with Meaning- Everyone Should Know
Here are 20 common Idioms in English that are worth knowing:
- Break a leg – to wish someone good luck
- Cost an arm and a leg – to be very expensive
- Bite the bullet – to face a difficult situation bravely
- Beat around the bush – to avoid getting to the point in a conversation
- Barking up the wrong tree – making a mistake in blaming or accusing someone
- A blessing in disguise – a good thing that seems bad at first
- Burn the midnight oil – to work hard or study late into the night
- Cry over spilt milk – to be upset over something that cannot be changed
- A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush – it’s better to have something for sure than to take a risk for more
- Cat got your tongue– to be speechless
- Close but no cigar – almost a success but not quite
- Cut to the chase – to get to the most important point
- Don’t judge a book by its cover – not to judge someone or something by appearance only
- Easy as pie – very easy
- Eat humble pie – to apologize or admit fault
- Get cold feet – to lose one’s nerve or become too afraid to do something
- Get the ball rolling – to start or initiate an action
- Give someone the benefit of the doubt – to assume the best of someone
- Go against the grain – to do something differently or against the norm
- Hit the nail on the head – to get something exactly right.
Some More Idiom Examples with Their Usage
- Rain cats and dogs – heavy rain
Example: It’s raining cats and dogs out there, better stay inside. - Bite off more than you can chew – to take on too much
Example: I wouldn’t take on that project if I were you, you’re biting off more than you can chew. - A picture is worth a thousand words – a visual representation is more effective than words
Example: The graph clearly shows the data, it’s a picture worth a thousand words. - Add fuel to the fire – to make a situation worse
Example: Don’t make that comment, it will only add fuel to the fire. - Throw in the towel – to give up
Example: He was exhausted and decided to throw in the towel. - Throw caution to the wind – to act without regard to consequences
Example: She decided to take a risk and throw caution to the wind. - A bird of a different feather – someone who is different from others
Example: She’s always been a bird of a different feather, never following the crowd. - A taste of your own medicine – to experience the same thing one has done to others
Example: He got a taste of his own medicine when his prank backfired on him. - An apple a day keeps the doctor away – a healthy lifestyle can prevent illness
Example: Eating a healthy diet with an apple a day can help keep the doctor away.
Also Read: Rules for Tenses in English Grammar: Let’s Build the Foundation of English Through Knowledge!
How Do Idioms Help in Fluent English Speaking?
Idioms are an important part of the English language and can help in fluent English speaking in several ways:
- Improving Vocabulary: By learning idioms, you can expand your English vocabulary and improve your language skills.
- Enhancing Fluency: By incorporating idioms in your speech, you can sound more fluent and confident while speaking English.
- Adding Color to Language: Idioms can add a unique touch to your speech, making it more colorful and interesting.
- Improving Comprehension: Understanding idioms can also help in comprehending English speech and text, especially in more informal settings.
- Understanding Cultural References: Idioms often reflect cultural attitudes, values and beliefs, and understanding them can provide insight into the culture.
- Improving Writing Skills: Using idioms in writing can make your writing more interesting, engaging, and expressive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, incorporating idioms in your English speaking and writing can greatly enhance your language skills and make your speech more engaging and memorable. To know more about the ways to enhance your speaking skills, visit us.
Also Read: Learn to Speak Like a Pro with English Speaking Practice Exercises: Speak English Fluently
FAQ’s
1. What are idioms and why are they important in English?
A: Idioms are expressions or phrases that carry figurative meanings different from their literal interpretations. They are crucial in English as they add color, depth, and vividness to language. They help convey messages more effectively and make speech or writing more engaging and expressive.
2. Where can I find a list of commonly used idioms with examples?
A: Lists of commonly used idioms along with examples are available in various resources such as dictionaries, dedicated idiom books, language learning websites, and online platforms specializing in English education. These resources provide a wide range of idiomatic expressions with their meanings and usage examples.
3. How can I incorporate idioms into my everyday speech?
A: Incorporating idioms into everyday speech can be achieved by regular exposure and practice. One method is to start using idioms in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues. Listening to native speakers, reading books, and watching movies or TV shows rich in idiomatic language can also help in naturalizing their use.
4. Are there idioms specific to certain English-speaking regions or cultures?
A: Yes, idioms can be region-specific or culturally bound. Some idiomatic expressions are more commonly used in certain regions or cultural contexts. For instance, American English may have idioms different from British English. Exposure to various cultures and their idiomatic expressions helps in understanding regional differences.
5. What are some practical exercises or activities to learn and remember idioms effectively?
A: Engaging in exercises like matching games, quizzes, or fill-in-the-blank activities focused on idioms can aid in their memorization and understanding. Incorporating idioms into daily journaling or creating stories using idioms also helps reinforce their meanings and usage. Additionally, practicing conversations using idioms with others can further solidify understanding and usage.
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