Monthly Archives: April 2024

YouTube Videos

Two colleagues talking and using idioms in their conversation.

Leave a comment

Ever wonder how native speakers use idioms in everyday conversation? This video dives into the world of colorful expressions with two colleagues chatting.

Watch as they navigate figuring out a plan, from throwing in at the deep end with a crazy idea to making sure they’re not on a wild goose chase. Will their teamwork be a well-oiled machine or will a sneaky idiom throw them off the scent? Learn these idioms and more to understand and use them in your own conversations! But remember, let’s not reinvent the wheel – there are plenty of great idioms out there waiting to be discovered!

Idiom of the day

Off-color

Leave a comment

The phrase “off color” has two main meanings:

  • Slightly unwell: This is a common way to say that you’re not feeling your best, but you’re not sick enough to stay home from work or school. For example, you might say “I’m feeling a bit off-color today, so I think I’ll skip the gym.”
  • In poor taste or offensive:

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe something that is inappropriate, offensive, or in poor taste, especially regarding humor, language, or behavior. It implies that the subject matter is unsuitable or unacceptable, often due to its sensitive or controversial nature.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “His off-color jokes made many people uncomfortable at the party.”
  2. “The comedian’s off-color remarks offended several members of the audience.”
  3. “The company decided to remove the off-color content from their advertising campaign after receiving complaints.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “off-color” is related to the concept of color as a metaphor for propriety or acceptability. “Off-color” originally referred to something that was off or outside the normal or acceptable range, particularly in terms of language or behavior. Over time, the phrase evolved into a common idiom used to describe inappropriate or offensive content, particularly in humor or conversation.

Idiom of the day

Have an ear for something

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who possesses a natural talent or ability to recognize, understand, or appreciate a particular type of sound, music, language, or skill. It implies having a keen sense of perception or sensitivity towards auditory stimuli, allowing one to discern nuances or subtleties effectively.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “She has an ear for languages and can pick up new accents and dialects quickly.”
  2. “He has a great ear for music and can identify different instruments just by listening to them.”
  3. “The director has an ear for dialogue and can immediately tell when a line delivery doesn’t ring true.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “have an ear for something” lies in the literal sense of having a physical organ capable of hearing. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe a person’s innate ability or talent related to sound perception. It emphasizes the idea of having a natural affinity or sensitivity towards a particular auditory skill or domain.

Idiom of the day

To catch one’s breath

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of pausing momentarily to rest, recover, or regain composure after exertion, physical activity, or excitement. It implies taking a brief break to breathe deeply and restore normal breathing, especially when one is out of breath or exhausted.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After running up the stairs, she had to stop and catch her breath before continuing.”
  2. “He paused to catch his breath and calm his nerves before giving his speech.”
  3. “The hiker took a moment to catch his breath and enjoy the breathtaking view from the mountaintop.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “catch one’s breath” is literal, referring to the physical act of pausing to regain normal breathing after exertion. The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century and has been in common usage ever since. It is a straightforward expression that emphasizes the importance of taking a moment to rest and recover, especially after strenuous activity.

To catch one’s breath
Idiom of the day

Kick the habit

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of successfully overcoming an addiction or breaking a longstanding habit, especially one that is detrimental to one’s health or well-being. It implies ceasing or abandoning a behavior or practice that has become ingrained or habitual.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “He finally kicked the habit and quit smoking after years of trying.”
  2. “She’s determined to kick the habit of procrastination and become more productive.”
  3. “With the support of his friends and family, he was able to kick the habit of excessive drinking.”

Origin: The origin of the phrase “kick the habit” can be traced back to the late 19th or early 20th century and is related to the concept of addiction to substances such as tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. “Habit” refers to a recurrent behavior or practice that is difficult to break. The term “kick” in this context suggests forcefully overcoming or eliminating the habit. Over time, the phrase evolved into a common idiom used to describe the process of overcoming addiction or breaking a longstanding habit.

Kick the habit
Idiom of the day

Get into shape

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of improving one’s physical fitness or overall health by engaging in exercise, adopting a healthier lifestyle, or achieving a desired level of physical condition. It implies making efforts to become stronger, healthier, or more physically fit.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “I’ve decided to get into shape by joining a gym and starting a regular exercise routine.”
  2. “She’s been working hard to get into shape for her wedding by eating healthier and exercising regularly.”
  3. “He realized he needed to get into shape after struggling to climb a flight of stairs; he started jogging and lifting weights.”

Origin: The origin of the phrase “get into shape” is straightforward, with “shape” referring to one’s physical condition or fitness level. The expression likely originated from the fitness and exercise community and has been in common usage since the mid-20th century. It emphasizes the idea of actively working towards improving one’s physical health and fitness, often through exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Get into shape
Idiom of the day

An apple a day keeps the doctor away

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to convey the idea that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including consuming nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables, can prevent illness and promote good health. It implies that regularly eating apples can contribute to overall well-being and reduce the likelihood of needing medical attention.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “She believes in the saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ so she eats an apple every morning.”
  2. “My grandmother always swore by the principle of ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ and she lived a long, healthy life.”
  3. “Instead of relying on medication, he tries to follow the advice of ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ by eating healthily and staying active.”

Origin: The origin of the phrase “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” can be traced back to 19th-century Wales. The saying was first recorded in the form of a proverb in the publication “Notes and Queries” in 1866. It reflects the belief in the health benefits of consuming fruits, particularly apples, as part of a balanced diet. While the exact scientific validity of the saying is debated, it remains a popular adage promoting the importance of healthy eating habits for maintaining good health.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away
YouTube Videos

Explore English idioms and have fun with language.

Leave a comment

“Join us for a whirlwind tour of fascinating English idioms! In under 50 seconds, we’ll unravel the mysteries behind common expressions like “Finding a needle in a haystack.’,

Having a frog in your throat,’ ‘Raining cats and dogs,’ and ‘A bull in a china shop.’ With vibrant visuals and snappy explanations, this video is your passport to understanding these quirky phrases and injecting some fun into your language learning journey. Dive in and explore the colorful world of English idioms with us!”

Idiom of the day

In the pink

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe someone who is in good health, excellent condition, or high spirits. It implies a state of physical or mental well-being, vitality, or robustness.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “After recovering from the flu, she’s finally back in the pink and ready to return to work.”
  2. “Despite his age, he’s still in the pink of health and enjoys an active lifestyle.”
  3. “Winning the championship put the whole team in the pink; they’re full of confidence and enthusiasm.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “in the pink” is uncertain, but it likely stems from the association of the color pink with health and vitality. In the late 16th century, “in the pink” was used to describe a healthy plant or flower in full bloom, which eventually evolved into a metaphor for human health. Over time, the phrase became a common idiom used to describe someone who is in good health or high spirits.

In the pink
Idiom of the day

Keep your head above water

Leave a comment

Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of managing to survive or cope with a difficult or challenging situation, especially when facing financial, emotional, or other hardships. It implies staying afloat or maintaining one’s stability and resilience despite adversity or difficulties.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Despite the financial struggles, they managed to keep their heads above water by cutting expenses and finding additional sources of income.”
  2. “She’s been working two jobs to keep her head above water and support her family.”
  3. “The company is struggling, but they’re doing their best to keep their heads above water and avoid bankruptcy.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “keep your head above water” is literal, referring to the act of staying afloat while swimming to prevent drowning. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the ability to survive or cope with challenging circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of resilience, determination, and perseverance in overcoming difficulties and maintaining stability.