100+ Commonly Used English Idioms (PDF)
English idioms are key to sounding natural in English. They add color and depth to your speech. By learning these idioms, you’ll speak more like a native.
What Are Idioms?
Idioms are phrases with meanings different from their literal definitions. Getting familiar with them will help you understand English better.
Why Learn Idioms?
You’ll encounter idioms in movies, TV shows, newspapers, and more. Knowing them helps you understand and communicate with native speakers effectively.
→ Listen 100 Commonly Used English Idioms (22 min) – download
List of Commonly Used English Idioms
Here are some idioms you’ll find useful:
1. A Piece of Cake
Meaning: Something very easy.
Example: “The test was a piece of cake for her.”
2. When Pigs Fly
Meaning: Something that will never happen.
Example: “He’ll apologize when pigs fly.”
3. See Eye to Eye
Meaning: To agree with someone.
Example: “They see eye to eye on their business plans.”
4. Break a Leg
Meaning: Good luck.
Example: “Break a leg on your presentation!”
5. Can’t Stand (Something)
Meaning: To dislike something.
Example: “She can’t stand noisy places.”
6. Don’t Sweat It
Meaning: Don’t worry about it.
Example: “Don’t sweat it. You’ll do great on the exam.”
7. Driving One Bananas
Meaning: To make someone feel stressed or crazy.
Example: “The constant questions are driving me bananas.”
8. Get Out of Town
Meaning: An expression of surprise.
Example: “Get out of town! You’re coming to the party?”
9. Hold Your Horses
Meaning: Wait a moment or be patient.
Example: “Hold your horses! We need to plan first.”
10. A Penny for Your Thoughts
Meaning: Asking what someone is thinking.
Example: “A penny for your thoughts, John.”
11. Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Meaning: What you do is more important than what you say.
Example: “Show me, don’t tell me. Actions speak louder than words.”
12. An Arm and a Leg
Meaning: A lot of money.
Example: “That new car costs an arm and a leg.”
13. At the Drop of a Hat
Meaning: Immediately; without hesitation.
Example: “She’ll help you at the drop of a hat.”
14. The Ball Is in Your Court
Meaning: It’s up to you to take the next step.
Example: “I’ve made my offer. The ball is in your court now.”
15. The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread
Meaning: An excellent new idea or invention.
Example: “Your suggestion is the best thing since sliced bread.”
FAQ
Q: What are idioms? A: Idioms are phrases with meanings different from their literal words.
Q: Why are idioms important? A: Idioms make your speech sound natural and help you understand native speakers better.
Q: How can I learn more idioms? A: Check out our free PDF eBooks for a comprehensive list of idioms and their meanings.
Q: Where can I download your free eBooks? A: Visit our website to download our free PDF eBooks on English idioms.
Download Our Free PDF eBooks
Get more idioms and examples in our free PDF eBooks. Visit our website to download them now!
