Idioms

Have you ever seen two people argue repeatedly about the same issue—like splitting chores, choosing a vacation spot, or deciding who gets the last slice of pizza? In English, we call that a bone of contention! This classic idiom describes a subject or object that causes ongoing disagreement, tension, or conflict between people. What Does…

Have you ever seen someone enter a new, complex, or tough situation—like moving to a big city for the first time, starting a high-pressure job, or navigating a tricky social scene—and seem completely lost or overwhelmed? In English, we might call them a babe in the woods! This evocative idiom describes someone who is innocent,…

Unexpected events happen to everyone. Sometimes news shocks you, or an event happens when you least expect it. In English, we say these things take by surprise. This idiom is perfect for describing moments of unexpected shock or discovery. What Does “Take By Surprise” Mean? “Take by surprise” means to shock or surprise someone unexpectedly….

Have you ever set your coffee cup on the table, made a rude comment about someone’s idea, or paid a deposit on a new apartment? In English, all of these actions can be described with the phrase put down! This versatile phrasal verb has three common meanings: (1) to place something on a surface, (2)…

Have you ever heard someone say, “I won’t stand for rude behavior,” or seen a company slogan like “We stand for sustainability”? In English, stand for is a powerful phrase used to express what you believe in, represent, or refuse to tolerate. It’s about your values, your voice, and your boundaries. What Does “Stand For”…

Have you ever met someone named after a grandparent, a famous scientist, or a beloved family friend? In English, we say a person (or even a place or pet) is named after someone when their name is chosen to honor or remember that person. It’s a warm, meaningful phrase used across cultures—and it comes up…

Have you ever said goodbye to a friend who’s moving away, finishing school, or changing jobs—and promised to stay connected? In English, you can say, “Let’s keep in touch with each other!” This warm, common phrase is all about maintaining contact with people over time, even when life gets busy or you’re far apart. What…

Sometimes you find something unexpectedly, or someone makes a particular impression on you. In English, we use the phrase to come across for both these situations. This common idiom helps describe discoveries and perceptions in daily life. What Does “To Come Across” Mean? “To come across” has two main meanings. It can mean to find…

When you try to achieve something difficult, you might wonder about your possibility of success. In English, we talk about whether you stand a chance of winning, succeeding, or achieving your goal. This idiom is very common in competitive situations and daily challenges. What Does “To Stand a Chance” Mean? “To stand a chance” means…

Have you ever wanted someone to send you a quick text, email, or note—just to say hello or share a short update? In English, you can say, “Drop me a line!” This warm, old-fashioned phrase is still widely used today to ask for a brief message in a friendly, relaxed way. What Does “Drop a…

Have you ever seen someone double-check every detail of a document, rehearse a speech dozens of times, or go out of their way to make guests feel welcome? In English, we say they take pains to do something. This formal but elegant phrase means to make a careful, deliberate effort to ensure something is done…

Have you ever admired a teacher, a family member, a leader, or even a celebrity because of their kindness, courage, or success? In English, we say you look up to them. This heartfelt phrasal verb means to admire and respect someone—usually because of their qualities, achievements, or how they treat others. What Does “Look Up…