English Idioms

“The ball is rolling”

Something has started and is now progressing.

“Hands are tied”

Unable to act because of rules or restrictions.

“Go in circles”

To make no progress while repeating the same ideas or actions.

“Go down in flames”

To fail completely and dramatically.

“When it rains, it pours”

Problems often happen all at once.

“Feel your way”

To proceed carefully without full knowledge.

“Not my cup of tea”

Not something one likes or enjoys.

“Catch your breath”

To rest until you can breathe normally again.

“Blood is thicker than water”

Family relationships are more important than other relationships.

“Follow in someone’s footsteps”

To do the same thing as someone did before you.

“Be in over your head”

To be involved in something too difficult for you.

“Against all odds”

Despite very low chances of success.

“Keep tabs on”

To watch or monitor carefully.

“Great minds think alike”

Said when two people have the same idea.

“Cook the books”

To dishonestly change financial records.

“Call someone’s bluff”

To challenge someone to prove that what they say is true.

“Hang in there”

To keep trying and not give up.

“Drop a hint”

To suggest something indirectly.

“Every dog has its day”

Everyone gets a chance to succeed at some point.

“Go the whole hog”

To do something completely, not partly.

“Drive someone up the wall”

To make someone very annoyed or angry.

“On cloud nine”

Extremely happy.

“Can’t make head or tail of”

To be unable to understand something.

“Have a field day”

To enjoy an opportunity to criticize or take advantage.