Idioms

Have you ever felt rushed or overwhelmed in a conversation? Maybe someone told you, “Hey, slow down!” This common English phrase isn’t just about speed—it’s about taking your time, whether in speech, work, or life. Learning how to use “to slow down” will help you sound natural and confident in everyday situations. What Does “To…

Have you ever been in the middle of a great conversation, a movie, or a vacation—and suddenly had to stop because of an emergency, bad weather, or an unexpected change? In English, we say it was cut short! This useful phrase means something ended earlier than expected or planned—often suddenly or abruptly. What Does “Cut…

Have you ever heard that a CEO, politician, or team leader is leaving their role—not because they were fired, but by choice? In English, we say they stepped down. This respectful phrase means to voluntarily resign from an important or official position, often to make way for someone else or due to personal reasons. What…

Have you ever tried to stop biting your nails, drinking too much coffee, or scrolling social media for hours? Maybe you’ve even worked to quit smoking, gambling, or overspending. In English, we say you’re trying to kick the habit! This practical idiom means to stop a repeated behavior—especially a bad or addictive one—that’s hard to…

Have you ever talked to someone who refuses to listen to other viewpoints, judges people quickly, or insists their way is the only right way? In English, we might describe them as narrow-minded. This straightforward term refers to someone who is closed off to new ideas, cultures, beliefs, or ways of thinking. What Does “Narrow-Minded”…

Have you ever had an important conversation that just wouldn’t work over text or email? Maybe you needed to apologize, discuss a sensitive issue, or build trust with a new client. In English, we say you need to talk face-to-face! This practical phrase describes any interaction that happens in person, with people physically present in…

Have you ever seen someone celebrating like there’s no tomorrow—dining at fancy restaurants, dancing all night, or splurging on a dream vacation? In English, we say they’re living it up! This lively idiom describes someone who’s enjoying life to the fullest, often with excitement, luxury, or a carefree attitude. What Does “Live It Up” Mean?…

Have you ever heard about a great deal, event, or chance—but only after it was already over? Maybe tickets sold out before you could buy them, or a job posting closed the day you decided to apply. In English, we say you missed the boat! This idiom means you were too late to take part…

Have you ever given an estimate, described a situation that’s almost—but not exactly—true, or said you’re finished with a task except for small details? In English, you can say it’s more or less! This practical phrase means “approximately,” “almost,” or “nearly”—with just a little room for error or exception. What Does “More or Less” Mean?…

Have you ever waited for important news—like test results, a job offer, or a flight update—and felt so tense that you couldn’t relax? Maybe your heart raced, your mind raced, and you jumped at every sound. In English, we say you’re on edge! This common idiom describes a state of nervousness, anxiety, or high tension—like…

Have you ever heard a judge give the harshest sentence possible for a crime? Or a teacher give every possible consequence for a serious rule violation? In English, we say they threw the book at them! This powerful idiom means to punish someone as severely as the rules or laws allow—using every penalty available. What…

Have you ever needed to say something truthful—even if it might sound harsh or unexpected? Maybe a friend asked if their outfit looked good, or a coworker wanted your real opinion on their idea. In English, you can start your sentence with in all honesty! This sincere phrase signals that you’re about to speak openly…