English-language idioms

An idiom is a common word or phrase with a figurative, non-literal meaning that is understood culturally and differs from what its composite words' denotations would suggest; i.e. the words together have a meaning that is different from the dictionary definitions of the individual words (although some idioms do retain their literal meanings – see the example "kick the bucket" below). By another definition, an idiom is a speech form or an expression of a given language that is peculiar to itself grammatically or cannot be understood from the individual meanings of its elements. For example, an English speaker would understand the phrase "kick the bucket" to mean "to die" – and also to actually kick a bucket. Furthermore, they would understand when each meaning is being used in context. To evoke the desired effect in the listener, idioms require a precise replication of the phrase: not even articles can be used interchangeably (e.g. "kick a bucket" only retains the literal meaning of the phrase but not the idiomatic meaning). Idioms should not be confused with other figures of speech such as metaphors, which evoke an image by use of implicit comparisons (e.g., "the man of steel"); similes, which evoke an image by use of explicit comparisons (e.g., "faster than a speeding bullet"); or hyperbole, which exaggerates an image beyond truthfulness (e.g., "more powerful than a locomotive"). Idioms are also not to be confused with proverbs, which are simple sayings that express a truth based on common sense or practical experience.

Notable idioms in English

This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.

See also

• List of 19th-century English-language idioms
• List of proverbial phrases
• List of business terms
• Siamese twins (linguistics)
• wikt:Category:English idioms
• Cliché

References

Idiom	Definition/Translation	Notes	Ref.
a bitter pill to swallow	A situation or information that is unpleasant but must be accepted
a dime a dozen	(US) Anything that is common, inexpensive, and easy to get or available anywhere
a hot potato	A controversial issue or situation that is awkward or unpleasant to deal with
a sandwich short of a picnic	Lacking intelligence
ace in the hole	A hidden or secret strength; an unrevealed advantage
Achilles' heel	A small but fatal weakness in spite of overall strength
all ears	Listening intently; fully focused or awaiting an explanation
all thumbs	Clumsy, awkward
an arm and a leg	Very expensive or costly; a large amount of money
apple of discord	Anything causing trouble, discord, or jealousy
around the clock	When something is done all day and all night without stopping