English Idioms
Search this index of English idioms. Each idiom has its own page with meaning, examples, and related expressions.
- The ball is rolling
Something has started and is now progressing.
General - Hands are tied
Unable to act because of rules or restrictions.
General - Go in circles
To make no progress while repeating the same ideas or actions.
General - Go down in flames
To fail completely and dramatically.
General - When it rains, it pours
Problems often happen all at once.
General - Feel your way
To proceed carefully without full knowledge.
General - Not my cup of tea
Not something one likes or enjoys.
General - Catch your breath
To rest until you can breathe normally again.
General - Blood is thicker than water
Family relationships are more important than other relationships.
General - Follow in someone’s footsteps
To do the same thing as someone did before you.
General - Be in over your head
To be involved in something too difficult for you.
General - Against all odds
Despite very low chances of success.
General - Keep tabs on
To watch or monitor carefully.
General - Great minds think alike
Said when two people have the same idea.
General - Cook the books
To dishonestly change financial records.
General - Call someone’s bluff
To challenge someone to prove that what they say is true.
General - Hang in there
To keep trying and not give up.
General - Drop a hint
To suggest something indirectly.
General - Every dog has its day
Everyone gets a chance to succeed at some point.
General - Go the whole hog
To do something completely, not partly.
General - Drive someone up the wall
To make someone very annoyed or angry.
General - On cloud nine
Extremely happy.
General - Can’t make head or tail of
To be unable to understand something.
General - Have a field day
To enjoy an opportunity to criticize or take advantage.
General
Idiom of the Day
“Wear your heart on your sleeve”
To show your feelings openly.
A highlighted idiom from our collection. Browse the full index above for more.
Open idiom pagePractice idioms with games
Reinforce idiom meaning with context-based quiz practice and short daily game sessions.
FAQ
What are English idioms?
Idioms are fixed expressions where the meaning is different from the literal words.
Why are idioms important in conversation?
They make speech sound natural and help you understand native-level communication.
How can I learn idioms faster?
Study idioms in context, repeat example sentences aloud, and review them regularly.
What are common idioms for beginners?
Start with high-frequency idioms from daily conversation and workplace English.