Tag: Idioms

Idioms and Their Origin

B1 – Lower Intermediate

Image result for cat got your tongue idiom

 

An idiom is a word or phrase which means something different from its literal meaning. When used correctly, it can amplify messages in a way that draws readers and listeners in and helps awaken their senses.

Let us get to find out some of the most used idioms and their crazy origins.

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/popular-idioms-with-crazy-origins

Discussion questions:

1. Tell some real-life situations when you have used or experienced these idioms.

2. Are you good at using idioms when speaking? How do you feel about people who are good at using idioms in a conversation?

3. Give an example of a Spanish idiom and explain its meaning and origin.

4. When is it necessary to use idioms? When is it not?

 

English Idioms

B2 – Upper intermediate

The use of expressions, phrasal verbs and idioms are one of many ways to increase vocabulary.

The module below will serve as your study guide for expanding your vocabulary through idioms. Feel free to go through the module in sections or chapters and be ready to use them in sentences.

English Idioms

Discuss:
1. When was the last time you were under the weather and had to stay home?
2. Describe a time you were over the moon? What happened?
3. Do you sometimes get butterflies in your stomach?
4. Talk about a time you bought something that cost you an arm and a leg.

Increase your Vocabulary Through Idioms 2

B2 – Upper intermediate

Idioms are a very fun way to express certain situations. They put more color to your sentences and are a great way to increase your vocabulary.

Read the short articles and answer the questions that follow.

Idiom 1:The Economy is Tough

Idiom 2: Good Working Habits

Hats Off to You!

B2 – Upper Intermediate

This article will help increase your vocabulary. It contains different idiomatic expressions which you can use on a daily basis.

Read the article and listen to the audio clip then be ready to use the expressions in sentences.

https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/words-and-their-stories-clothing-expressions/3538378.html

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does it mean when something is tailor-made just for you?
  2. Have you ever given the shirt off your back for a friend? Share your story.
  3. Talk about the time that you had to roll up your sleeves at work.
  4. Explain what it means to ride someone’s coattails.

Vocabulary: Animal Idioms

B2 – Upper intermediate

You can hold horses and flies can drop. Read and familiarize yourself with the different idioms with animals and be ready to use them in sentences.

Animal Idioms

Discuss:

1. Talk about a time when you sensed something fishy.
2. Describe a situation when you were able to kill two birds with one stone.
3. What’s the advantage of taking the bull by the horns? What’s the disadvantage?
4. Is it difficult for you to hold your horses?

Vocabulary: Colour Idioms

B2 – Upper intermediate

Opportunities have colors and so do lies. Read and familiarize yourself with the different idioms with colors and be ready to use them in sentences.

Colour Idioms

Discuss:

1. Talk about a time you passed an exam or a course with flying colors.
2. Was there a time you had to roll the red carpet for someone?
3. At work, who gives the green light?
4. Would you say that you were born with a silver spoon in your mouth?