An idiom is an expression or a phrase whose meaning cannot be easily understood from the individual meanings of the words it contains. Idioms play an important part in the language as they make language richer and more colourful and convey their point subtly. The aspirants can use idioms to enrich their language skills, make an impact and say more in few words. Find a list of few idioms given below:
|
IDIOMS |
MEANING |
|
Actions speak louder than words |
People's intentions can be judged better by what they do than what they say |
|
At the drop of a hat |
Instantly |
|
Have an ace up your sleeve |
Have a secret advantage |
|
Up in arms |
Protesting angrily about something |
|
Back to square one |
Back to the starting point, with no progress made |
|
A bed of roses |
A situation or activity that is comfortable or easy |
|
A bird's eye view |
A general view from above |
|
Can't judge a book by its cover |
Cannot judge something primarily on appearance |
|
Bury the hatchet |
End a quarrel or conflict and become friendly |
|
Count your blessings |
Be grateful for what you have |
|
Off the cuff |
Without preparation |
|
Get on like a house of fire |
Have a good and friendly relationship |
|
Let bygones be bygones |
Forgive and forget past offences or causes of conflict |
|
The cat has got someone's tongue |
Someone is remaining silent |
|
Let the cat out of the bag |
Revel a secret, especially carelessly or by mistake |
|
Under fire |
Being severely criticized |
|
Breathe fire |
Be fiercely angry |
|
The bottom line |
The important conclusion |
|
Live out of a suitcase |
A great deal of travelling |
|
For good measure |
In addition to what has already been said, done |
|
Send in your papers |
Resign |
|
Paddle your own canoe |
Be independent and self sufficient |
|
Roll up your sleeves |
Prepare to fight or work |
|
Make a rod for your own back |
Do something likely to cause difficulties for yourself later |
Test Yourself
Q1. Complete the table:
|
Idiom |
Meaning |
Example |
|
Spill the beans |
Don't spill the beans yet. |
|
|
Keep an eye out for that |
Maintain awareness of it |
|
|
Beating around the bush |
Avoiding the main topic |
|
|
Adjusting quickly to changes and making fast decisions |
He had to think on his feat to close the deal. |
|
|
Tricks of the trade |
Clever or expert way of doing something |
Answer Key
a. let out a secret
b. Keep an eye out on that job.
c. Stop beating around the bush and come to the point.
d. think on your feet
e. Doing the job over several years, I know all tricks of the trade.
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