12 COMMON MUST-TO-KNOW ENGLISH IDIOMS PART II

Hello, English learners! Today, I have a real treat for you: a deep dive into the fascinating world of idioms part two. Idioms are expressions that add color and character to the English language. Learning these will not only make you sound more fluent but also give you insights into the culture. So, let's get started with my list of 12 must-know idioms

First things first, what are idioms?

Idioms are phrases or expressions that have a figurative, non-literal meaning. They often originate from culture, history, or common human experiences, and they can be a lot of fun to use once you get the hang of them.

Examples include: 'Break a leg', 'The ball is in your court', 'Piece of cake and etcetera'.

Though, idioms add color and flair to the English language, but their meanings might not be immediately obvious.

1 . Once in a Blue Moon

Have you ever done something 'once in a blue moon'?

It means very rarely or infrequently, like when we have two full moons in a calendar month.

For example: I only visit my hometown once in a blue moon.

2. The Ball is in Your Court

When someone says 'the ball is in your court,' it means it's your turn to make a decision or take action.

For example: I've given you all the information you need; now the ball is in your court.

3. Let the Cat Out of the Bag

If you 'let the cat out of the bag,' you've revealed a secret or spoiled a surprise.

For example: Oops, I let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party!

4. The Best of Both Worlds

Having 'the best of both worlds' means enjoying the benefits of two different situations.

For example: Working part-time allows me to have the best of both worlds—job security and free time.

5. Drop in the Bucket

A 'drop in the bucket' is a small, insignificant amount compared to what's needed.

For example: Donating a dollar is just a drop in the bucket for this charity.

6. Get Cold Feet

If you 'get cold feet,' you become nervous or anxious about something you planned.

For example: I was going to propose, but I got cold feet at the last moment.

7. Read Between the Lines

To 'read between the lines' means to understand something that's not directly stated.

For example: Her smile was forced; I could read between the lines and tell she was upset.

8. Beat Around the Bush

If someone 'beats around the bush,' they're avoiding talking directly about a sensitive topic.

For example: Stop beating around the bush and tell me what's bothering you.

9. Break the Ice

To 'break the ice' is to start a conversation in a social setting.

For example: His funny joke helped break the ice at the party.

10. In Hot Water

Being 'in hot water' means being in trouble or facing a difficult situation.

For example: After missing the deadline, I found myself in hot water with my boss.

11. A Piece of the Pie

Getting 'a piece of the pie' means getting a share of something, usually a reward or profit.

For example: Every employee should get a fair piece of the pie.

12. Hit the Hay

When it's time to 'hit the hay,' it means it's time to go to bed and get some sleep. No need to find a haystack; a comfy bed will do!

For example: "I'm so tired after work; I can't wait to hit the hay”.

Idioms Challenge: Test Your Language Skills

Congratulations! You've made it to Idioms Challenge! In this fun and interactive segment, I'll put your knowledge of English idioms to the test. Idioms are colorful expressions and mastering them can be a real feather in your cap.

Question one:

Idiom: "Bite the bullet" means

Options:

A) Chew on something tasty

B) Confront a difficult situation bravely

C) Complain about a problem

Question two:

Idiom: "Hit the hay" means

Options:

A) Start a fight

B) Go to bed

C) Exercise vigorously

Question three:

Idiom: "Break a leg" means

Options:

A) Take a rest

B) Good luck!

C) Get injured

Question four:

Idiom: "Cry over spilled milk" means

Options:

A) Grieve over a loss

B) Regret past mistakes needlessly

C) Celebrate small victories

Question five:

Idiom: "Read between the lines" means

Options:

A) Take things literally

B) Look for hidden meanings

C) Analyze a book thoroughly

Question six:

Idiom: "The ball is in your court" means

Options:

A) It's time to play a game

B) The responsibility is yours

C) Pass the ball to someone else

Question seven:

Idiom: "Jump on the bandwagon" means

Options:

A) Criticize popular trends

B) Join a popular trend or activity

C) Avoid public transportation

Question 8:

Idiom: "Piece of cake" means

Options:

A) A simple task

B) A delicious dessert

C) A challenging problem

Great job, everyone! I hope you enjoyed the Idioms Challenge and that you learned something new about these fascinating expressions.

For answers, please visit, https://youtu.be/5wYlw01ihIo

Until next time, this is your English dose, Happy idiom hunting!