English Idioms
Search this index of English idioms. Each idiom has its own page with meaning, examples, and related expressions.
- Curiosity killed the cat
Being too curious can cause trouble.
General - Fish out of water
Feeling uncomfortable in an unfamiliar situation.
General - You can’t have your cake and eat it too
You can’t have two incompatible advantages at the same time.
General - Time flies
Time passes very quickly.
General - The last straw
The final problem that causes someone to lose patience.
General - Speak your mind
To say what you really think.
General - Back against the wall
In a very difficult situation with no easy options.
General - Beggars can’t be choosers
People with no options must accept what they get.
General - The early bird catches the worm
People who act early have an advantage.
General - Pull someone’s leg
To joke or trick someone playfully.
General - Every cloud has a silver lining
There is something good in every bad situation.
General - Throw someone under the bus
To sacrifice someone else to protect yourself.
General - Get cold feet
To become nervous and change your mind.
General - Hit the road
To leave; start a journey.
General - All ears
Ready to listen carefully.
General - Hold your horses
To wait or be patient.
General - Up in the air
Not decided yet; uncertain.
General - Costs an arm and a leg
Very expensive.
General - Jump on the bandwagon
To follow a trend because it is popular.
General - Don’t put all your eggs in one basket
Don’t risk everything on one plan.
General - Raining cats and dogs
Raining very heavily.
General - Bite the bullet
To face a difficult or unpleasant situation bravely.
General - Beat around the bush
To avoid saying something directly.
General - Face the music
Accept the consequences of your actions.
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.