Everyday English Expressions
Common Idioms
Lesson Goal
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand and use several common English expressions that people use in everyday conversation.
Understand the meaning of common expressions
Recognize when people use them in conversation
Use them naturally in your own sentences
1️⃣ What Are Expressions?
Expressions (also called idioms) are groups of words that have a special meaning. The meaning is often different from the literal words.
Expression = a phrase that means something different from the exact words.
Example:
"Piece of cake" does not mean cake. It means something is very easy.
2️⃣ Don’t Poke the Bear
Meaning:
Do not make an angry person more angry.
Example:
He is already upset about the game. Don’t poke the bear.
3️⃣ I Can’t Put My Finger On It
Meaning:
You feel something is wrong or strange, but you cannot explain exactly what it is.
Example:
Something about this story seems strange, but I can’t put my finger on it.
4️⃣ Piece of Cake
Meaning:
Something that is very easy.
Example:
The test was a piece of cake.
5️⃣ Under the Weather
Meaning:
Feeling sick or not feeling well.
Example:
I stayed home today because I was feeling under the weather.
6️⃣ Call It a Day
Meaning:
To stop working for the day.
Example:
We finished the project, so let’s call it a day.
7️⃣ Hang in There
Meaning:
Stay strong and continue even when something is difficult.
Example:
The exam week is stressful, but hang in there.
8️⃣ On the Ball
Meaning:
Someone who is alert, prepared, and doing things well.
Example:
The new assistant is really on the ball.
9️⃣ Break the Ice
Meaning:
To do something that helps people feel comfortable when they first meet.
Example:
The teacher told a joke to break the ice.
🔟 Pulling Your Leg
Meaning:
To joke with someone or trick them in a playful way.
Example:
I’m just pulling your leg!