English Idioms
Search this index of English idioms. Each idiom has its own page with meaning, examples, and related expressions.
- Have a field day
To enjoy an opportunity to criticize or take advantage.
General - All over the place
Disorganized or scattered.
General - A mixed bag
A combination of good and bad things.
General - Hold the fort
To take care of things while someone is away.
General - Have a lot on your plate
To have many responsibilities or tasks.
General - Back to square one
To start again from the beginning after failing.
General - A hard nut to crack
A difficult person, problem, or situation to understand or solve.
General - Go belly up
To fail completely, especially a business.
General - Go out on a limb
To take a risk by saying or doing something.
General - Drive home
To emphasize a point clearly.
General - All things considered
After considering everything.
General - Fall flat
To fail to have the intended effect.
General - Down the road
In the future.
General - Fair and square
Honestly and according to the rules.
General - Come out on top
To win or succeed after difficulty.
General - Breathe easy
To relax after worry or danger has passed.
General - A rough patch
A difficult period of time.
General - A golden opportunity
A very good chance to do something valuable.
General - Iron out
To solve small problems or disagreements.
General - Head in the clouds
Not paying attention to reality.
General - Dead in the water
Unable to continue or succeed.
General - Bide your time
To wait patiently for the right moment.
General - Live and learn
Used after learning from a mistake or experience.
General - Dirt cheap
Very cheap.
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.
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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.