Idioms
Idioms are expressions that have a figurative meaning different from their literal meaning.
Why we use them
Idioms are used to express ideas in a more colorful and imaginative way. Sometimes you can sum up a lot of words with a few words by using an idiom.
When to use them
Use idioms in informal conversations, creative writing, and to add emphasis or humor. They can also be used in a business setting to sum up a long thought in a few words.
Casual Idioms
Break a leg - A way to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance.
"Break a leg before your performance!"
A piece of cake - Something very easy to do.
"It’s a piece of cake."
Hit the nail on the head - To be exactly right about something or to describe a situation accurately.
"He hit the nail on the head."
Let the cat out of the bag - To reveal a secret or disclose something that was supposed to be kept hidden.
"She let the cat out of the bag."
In the same boat - To be in the same situation, usually a challenging one, as others.
"They are in the same boat."
A walk in the park - Something that is very easy or straightforward.
"This task is a walk in the park."
Kick the bucket - A euphemism for dying or passing away.
"He kicked the bucket."
Bring the house down - To give a very successful or well-received performance.
"She brought the house down with her performance."
Bite the bullet - To endure a painful or difficult situation that is unavoidable.
"Bite the bullet and face your fears."
Burn the midnight oil - To work late into the night, usually to finish a task or project.
"We burned the midnight oil to finish the project."
Business Idioms
Back to the drawing board - Starting over after a plan or project fails.
"Our marketing strategy didn't work, so it's back to the drawing board."
Ballpark figure - An estimate or rough calculation.
"Can you give me a ballpark figure of how much this project will cost?"
Cutting corners - Doing something in a cheaper or easier way, often at the expense of quality.
“We can't afford to cut corners on this project; quality is important."
Ahead of the curve - Being more advanced or innovative than others.
"Our company is ahead of the curve in renewable energy solutions."
Touch base - To make brief contact or have a quick conversation with someone.
"Let's touch base next week to discuss the progress on the report."
Bite the bullet - To endure a painful or unpleasant situation that is unavoidable.
"We have to bite the bullet and make these budget cuts to stay profitable."
In the loop - Being informed and included in a group’s communications or decisions.
"Please keep me in the loop regarding any updates on the merger."
Raise the bar - To set a higher standard or expectation.
"The success of this product has really raised the bar for our competitors."
Throw in the towel - To give up or admit defeat.
"After months of declining sales, the company decided to throw in the towel and close the store."
Hit the ground running - To begin a project or task with great energy and immediately start producing results.
“We need someone who can hit the ground running and take charge of the project from day one."