Idioms

Discover the most common English idioms and learn how to use them naturally in conversation. Each lesson includes clear meanings, examples, and short dialogues to help you sound fluent and confident.

  • In the Long Run – Meaning and Examples

    Have you ever made a decision that felt hard now—but you knew it would pay off later? Or heard someone say, “It’s worth the effort in the long run”? In English, the phrase in the long run helps you talk about how things turn out after a long period of time—not today, not next week,…

  • In Touch – Meaning and Examples

    Have you ever stayed connected with a friend who moved away? Or felt like you really understand what people are thinking these days? In English, we say you’re in touch. This simple phrase has two main meanings—both about connection: (1) staying in contact with someone, and (2) being aware of current feelings, trends, or reality….

  • On One’s Toes – Meaning and Examples

    In fast-paced environments or unpredictable situations, we need to stay alert and ready to respond. In English, we say we need to stay on one’s toes to describe this state of readiness. This active idiom is perfect for talking about staying prepared in work and daily life. What Does “On One’s Toes” Mean? “On one’s…

  • Out of Touch – Meaning and Examples

    Have you ever met someone who didn’t understand modern technology, gave advice that felt outdated, or seemed unaware of how people really feel today? In English, we might say they’re out of touch. This useful phrase describes someone who’s disconnected from current trends, public opinion, or everyday reality—and it’s often used in conversations about leaders,…

  • Get Along – Meaning and Examples

    Good relationships make life enjoyable, whether with family, friends, or colleagues. In English, we describe these positive connections by saying people get along well. This friendly idiom is essential for talking about harmony in daily relationships. What Does “Get Along” Mean? “Get along” means to have a friendly relationship with someone or to be compatible….

  • Hard of Hearing – Meaning and Examples

    Hearing abilities vary among people, and some individuals experience partial hearing loss. In English, we use the respectful phrase hard of hearing to describe this common condition. This idiom helps discuss hearing differences politely and accurately. What Does “Hard of Hearing” Mean? “Hard of hearing” means having partial hearing loss or difficulty hearing. Think of…

  • Have In Mind – Meaning and Examples

    When we think of specific ideas or make plans, we often have particular details already considered. In English, we say we have in mind certain ideas or options. This useful idiom helps express that you’re thinking of something specific. What Does “Have In Mind” Mean? “Have in mind” means to be thinking of a particular…

  • Keep In Mind – Meaning and Examples

    When we need to remember important information or consider specific factors in our decisions, we use a special phrase in English. We say we need to keep in mind these important points. This practical idiom helps us remember crucial details in daily life. What Does “Keep In Mind” Mean? “Keep in mind” means to remember…

  • Go Off – Meaning and Examples

    Alarms sound, food spoils, and events proceed as planned—all these situations use the same English phrase. We say alarms go off, milk can go off, and plans go off successfully. This common idiom has multiple meanings in daily life. What Does “Go Off” Mean? “Go off” has several different meanings. It can mean to explode…

  • Grow Out Of – Meaning and Examples

    Children change constantly—they get bigger, their interests evolve, and they leave behind childish behaviors. In English, we say they grow out of these things. This practical idiom describes natural development and change throughout life. What Does “Grow Out Of” Mean? “Grow out of” means to become too big or mature for something. Think of it…

  • Make the Best of – Meaning and Examples

    Have you ever been stuck in a long flight delay, dealt with a rainy wedding day, or started a new job during a chaotic time—and still tried to stay positive? In English, we say you’re making the best of it! This encouraging idiom means to handle a difficult or imperfect situation as positively and effectively…

  • Cut Off – Meaning and Examples

    Have you ever lost phone service in a tunnel, been interrupted mid-sentence, or had your electricity shut off for nonpayment? In English, you’d say you were cut off! This versatile phrasal verb means to disconnect, interrupt, or stop the supply of something—whether it’s communication, utilities, conversation, or even access. What Does “Cut Off” Mean? “Cut…