Hey there!
Have you ever felt like your English is missing that extra spark? Idioms could be your secret weapon. These colourful expressions do not just make your English sound more native - they add personality and flair to your conversations.
I actually get asked a lot about idioms in my English classes, which is why we thought this could be the perfect topic for this week's newsletter!
What are idioms?
Why should I learn them?
Idioms are phrases or expressions that do not mean exactly what the words say. For example, if someone tells you to break a leg, they are wishing you good luck and not encouraging injury!
Why is it beneficial to learn idioms?
Cultural Insight: Idioms often reflect a language’s culture and traditions
Fluency Boost: They make your speech sound more natural and engaging
Social Connection: Using idioms correctly shows you understand the nuances of English, helping you connect with native speakers on a deeper level
↓ Let us explore four advanced idioms you can start using today ↓
🫠 to throw in the towel
= give up / admit defeat
e.g. After struggling for hours, she finally threw in the towel and asked for help.
🫂 to be on the same wavelength
= to share similar thoughts / understand someone well
e.g. It’s easy to work with her because we’re always on the same wavelength.
😬 to open a can of worms
= to start a topic / situation that leads to complications / trouble
e.g. Discussing politics at dinner is like opening a can of worms… it always ends in an argument.
🤏🏻 a drop in the ocean
= small / insignificant amount (compared to what is needed)
e.g. Donating £5 felt like a drop in the ocean, but every little bit helps.
At The English Life Academy, we are now offering dedicated classes for idioms and native expressions, designed to help you sound confident, fluent and natural.
Our new Idioms & Native Expressions classes are designed to:
Teach you modern, widely-used idioms (no outdated textbook phrases!)
Show you how to use idioms naturally in conversation
Build your confidence in sounding fluent and authentic
Click the button below to explore our membership options
All the best and we hope to meet you in class!
Benjamin & Cami