Idioms can be tricky because if you haven't heard them before you can't always guess what they mean. Although certain expressions you would only hear once in a blue moon (=almost never) , some idioms are extremely common and, if you're serious about your English, you absolutely have to learn them. Here are some of them:
1. NOT BE ALL IT'S CRACKED UP TO BE
Meaning: To be not as good as people say.
Example: I went to see the new Tarantino movie on Friday. I enjoyed it, but it's certainly not all it's cracked up to be.
2. BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY
Meaning: This would be the equivalent of the spanish saying "mejor prevenir que curar". It's better to be cautios to avoid trouble (even if you're being extra cautios)
Example: - Why do you want to go to the aiport so early ? - Well, you never know if there could be a traffic jam or something, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
3. ONCE A CHEAT, ALWAYS A CHEAT
Meaning: A person who cheats once will most likely cheat again.
Example: Maybe I should give John another chance, but I can't trust him anymore. You know, once a cheat, always a cheat!
4. TO MAKE ENDS MEET
Meaning: To be able to cope financially.
Example: I need to ask for a pay rise because I'm struggling to make ends meet.
5. TO PULL SOMEONE'S LEG / TO HAVE SOMEONE ON
Meaning: To tell someone something that's not true, just for a laugh! (as a joke)
Example: Don't take him seriously. I'm sure he was just pulling your leg when he told you he fancies your sister.
6. TO BE OVER THE MOON
Meaning: To be delighted, extremely happy.
Example: I'm over the moon about my trip to Asia next month.
7. TO MIND ONE'S OWN BUSINESS
Meaning: To refrain from interfering with other people's affairs.
Example: Don't look at my phone. Mind your own business!
8. COST AN ARM AND A LEG
Meaning: Very expensive or overpriced.
Example: I want the new Ipad but it costs an arm and a leg!
9. I/YOU/WE WILL CROSS THAT BRIDGE WHEN I/YOU/WE COME TO IT
Meaning: To deal with a situation when and if it arises as opposed to trying to anticipate it.
Example: - I don't like travelling with so much cash. What if our hotel room doesn't have a safe? - Don't worry darling, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
10. TO HIT THE NAIL ON THE HEAD
Meaning: To say something that's exactly right or completely true.
Example: I agree with Mike. I think he hit the nail on the head when he said the coach should have rested his best players today so they are are on top form for Sunday's final.
That's it for now! I would suggest you try and write your own sentences using these idioms to memorise them and ensure you use them in the right context.
Happy learning!
Nic
