Idioms are fixed expressions where the meaning can't always be guessed from the words. This guide covers widely used English idioms that show up in everyday speech and writing.
Idioms about Time
Idioms about time often relate to deadlines, patience, or making the most of moments. They are useful for describing schedules and attitudes toward timing.
Examples
Expressions
| English Idiom | English Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| Behind the eight ball | In a difficult or disadvantageous position | |
| Dragging one's feet | Delaying or procrastinating | |
| The early bird | Someone who gets up early or acts promptly | |
| Burn the midnight oil | Work late into the night |
Idioms about Money
Idioms about money deal with wealth, spending, saving, and value. They are common in conversations about finances and economic decisions.
Examples
Expressions
| English Idiom | English Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| Light in the wallet | Having little money | |
| Watch one’s pennies | Be careful with money | |
| An arm and a leg | Very expensive | |
| Tighten one’s belt | Spend less; be more frugal |
Idioms about People
Idioms about people describe character traits, behaviors, and social roles. They help color descriptions and make language more vivid.
Examples
Expressions
| English Idiom | English Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| Slowpoke | Someone who is slow | |
| Bright spark | A clever or intelligent person | |
| A fox | A sly or cunning person | |
| Busy bee | A hardworking and active person |
Idioms about Success and Failure
Idioms about success and failure relate to achievements, setbacks, effort, and outcomes. They are useful for talking about goals and results.
Examples
Expressions
| English Idiom | English Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| Hit the nail on the head | Do or say exactly the right thing | |
| Come up trumps | Succeed or do very well | |
| Go south | Fail or go badly | |
| Fall flat | Fail or be unsuccessful |
Idioms about Emotions
Idioms about emotions capture feelings like anger, happiness, fear, and surprise. They make descriptions of internal states more relatable and expressive.
Examples
Expressions
| English Idiom | English Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| Under the weather | Feeling sick or unwell | |
| Seeing red | Very angry | |
| Cracking up | Laughing a lot | |
| Butterflies | Nervous feelings |
Idioms about Food
Idioms about food often have figurative meanings related to life, behavior, and value. They are memorable and frequently used in informal speech.
Examples
Expressions
| English Idiom | English Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| Eat a whole buffet | Very hungry | |
| I’m game | Willing or eager to participate | |
| Bland | Lacking flavor or excitement | |
| Classic (snack) | Typical or traditional choice |
Summary
Familiar idioms make language more natural and engaging. Learn them in context and practice using them in sentences so they become second nature.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025