Idioms

When we have many things to consider, one factor is often the most important. In English, we use the phrase above all to highlight this top priority. This idiom helps you emphasize what matters most in any situation. What Does “Above All” Mean? “Above all” means most importantly or more than anything else. Think of…

Sometimes we must manage when we don’t have something we need or want. In English, we say we have to do without that thing. This practical idiom describes coping with absence or shortage in daily life. What Does “Do Without” Mean? “Do without” means to manage or survive without having something you usually have or…

Have you ever said, “The weather app says it’ll rain tomorrow,” or “My teacher says the test is on Friday”? In English, you can express that more formally by saying, “According to the weather app…” or “According to my teacher…” This useful phrase is used to show where information comes from—whether it’s a person, a…

Some future events are almost certain to happen based on current situations. In English, we say these things are bound to occur. This useful idiom helps you talk about predictable outcomes and near-certain future events. What Does “Be Bound To” Mean? “Be bound to” means something is very likely or certain to happen. Think of…

Have you ever mistaken a stranger for a friend because of their similar hairstyle? Or assumed someone was unfriendly—only to later discover they were just shy? In English, we say you took them for someone else or something they’re not. This useful phrasal verb means to believe that someone or something is a particular type…

When we want to say something is certain or we strongly agree with someone, we need clear words to express this. In English, we often use the phrase for sure to show complete certainty or strong agreement. This casual idiom is very common in everyday conversations. What Does “For Sure” Mean? “For sure” means definitely,…

Before we buy something new or join a new activity, we often want to test it first. In English, we say we want try out new things. This idiom is perfect for describing experiments and tests in daily life. What Does “Try Out” Mean? “Try out” means to test something to see if you like…

Old buildings get demolished, and sometimes people criticize others harshly. In English, we use the phrase tear down for both these actions. This idiom helps describe physical destruction and verbal criticism in daily life. What Does “Tear Down” Mean? “Tear down” has two main meanings. It can mean to demolish or destroy a building or…

Paper gets ripped, eyes get watery during sad movies, and old buildings get demolished. In English, we use the phrase tear up for all these different situations. This common idiom has several meanings you’ll encounter in daily life. What Does “Tear Up” Mean? “Tear up” has three main meanings. It can mean to rip something…

Have you ever double-checked a list before a trip, rehearsed a presentation with a friend, or accidentally spent more money than you planned? In English, you’d likely say you went over the list, went over your lines, or went over your budget! This versatile phrasal verb has several common meanings: (1) to review or examine…

Have you ever reached for milk only to find the carton empty? Or typed furiously on your laptop—only for the battery to die at 1%? In English, you’d say you ran out of milk or battery! This everyday phrasal verb means to use up all of something so that none is left. What Does “Run…

Have you ever met someone who seems tough on the outside—but you quickly realize they’re deeply kind? Or known a busy city lawyer who dreams of living on a quiet farm? In English, you might say they’re at heart a kind person or a country soul. This warm idiom is used to describe someone’s true,…