Megan Ambler TEFL Tutor - Idiomatic Expressions

Both idiomatic expressions and idioms involve language constructions whose meanings may
not be deducible from the individual words used. However, there are subtle differences between
the two concepts.

Idiomatic Expressions:

Definition: Idiomatic expressions are phrases or constructions where the meaning of the whole
is different from the meanings of the individual words. They often have a clear and logical
connection to their intended meaning.

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Usage: Idiomatic expressions are typically used in a broader range of contexts and may not
always carry a figurative or metaphorical meaning. They often follow grammatical rules and

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have a specific purpose in conveying information or creating a particular tone.

Examples: "Insofar as," "in the long run," "on the other hand," "by and large."

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Idioms:

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Definition: Idioms are a subset of idiomatic expressions, and they are more likely to be figurative
or metaphorical in nature. Idioms often have a cultural or historical origin and may not make
sense if interpreted literally.
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Usage: Idioms are known for their specific and often fixed meanings. They are used to add
colour, emphasis, or a specific nuance to language. Idioms may not always follow standard
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grammatical rules and are more likely to stand out as unconventional language use.
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Examples: "Kick the bucket," "break a leg," "spill the beans," "cost an arm and a leg."

In summary, idiomatic expressions encompass a broader category of language constructions

where the meaning of the whole is not immediately clear from the individual words. Idioms are a
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specific type of idiomatic expression with figurative or metaphorical meanings that may be
rooted in cultural or historical contexts. Both idiomatic expressions and idioms contribute to the
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richness and nuance of language, but idioms are often more vivid and distinctive in their
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figurative language.

Insofar as
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Explanation: This expression is idiomatic because its meaning is not easily figured out from the
individual words. It indicates the extent or degree to which something is true.
Example Sentence: "Insofar as we understand the situation, we will proceed with caution."

In the long run:

Explanation: It is idiomatic because the combined meaning of the phrase doesn't match the
literal meanings of "in," "the," "long," or "run." It signifies considering the eventual outcome or
consequences over time.
Megan Ambler TEFL Tutor - Idiomatic Expressions
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Example Sentence: "Investing in education pays off in the long run, benefiting both individuals
and society."

On the other hand:

Explanation: This expression is idiomatic because its meaning is not a straightforward
combination of the individual words. It is used to introduce an alternative viewpoint or
contrasting idea.
Example Sentence: "The plan has its advantages. On the other hand, there are potential risks
that need to be considered."

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By and large:
Explanation: This expression is idiomatic as its meaning is not a simple sum of its parts. It is

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used to indicate a general overview or summary.
Example Sentence: "By and large, the team is satisfied with the progress we've made on the
project."

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As a matter of fact:
Explanation: This expression is idiomatic because the meaning is not directly clear from the

situation.
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individual words. It is used to introduce a statement that emphasizes the truth or reality of a

Example Sentence: "As a matter of fact, I have already completed the assignment."
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For the time being:
Explanation: This expression is idiomatic as the combined meaning goes beyond the literal
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meanings of the individual words. It indicates a temporary or provisional state.

Example Sentence: "We'll use this meeting room for the time being until our regular room is
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available."

In light of:
Explanation: This expression is idiomatic because its meaning is not obvious from the individual
words. It is used to introduce information that should be considered in the context of a situation.
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Example Sentence: "In light of recent developments, we need to reconsider our approach to the
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project."
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At the drop of a hat:

Explanation: This expression means to do something immediately or without any hesitation.
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Example Sentence: "She's always ready to help at the drop of a hat."

Under the weather:

Explanation: It refers to feeling unwell or sick.
Example Sentence: "I won't be coming to the office today; I'm feeling a bit under the weather."
Megan Ambler TEFL Tutor - Idiomatic Expressions
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Cut to the chase:

Explanation: This means to get to the main point or the most important part of something
without unnecessary details.
Example Sentence: "Let's cut to the chase and discuss the key issues in the meeting."

Burn the midnight oil:

Explanation: It means to work late into the night or early morning hours.
Example Sentence: "I had to burn the midnight oil to finish the project on time."

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Break the ice:

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Explanation: This expression is used when someone initiates a conversation in a social setting
to alleviate tension or awkwardness.

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Example Sentence: "His joke helped break the ice at the party, and everyone started chatting
more comfortably."

Hit the nail on the head:

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Explanation: This means to describe precisely what is causing a situation or problem.
Example Sentence: "You really hit the nail on the head with your analysis of the market trends."

A piece of cake:
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Explanation: This expression indicates that something is very easy to do.
Example Sentence: "The exam was a piece of cake; I finished it in no time."
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Cost an arm and a leg:

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Explanation: It means something is very expensive.

Example Sentence: "Getting the car repaired is going to cost an arm and a leg."
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Bite the bullet:

Explanation: This expression means to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage.
Example Sentence: "I have to bite the bullet and tell my boss about the mistake I made."
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Kick the bucket:

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Explanation: It is a euphemism for dying or passing away.

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Example Sentence: "He's been sick for a long time, and sadly, he finally kicked the bucket."

Hit the hay:

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Explanation: It means to go to bed or go to sleep.

Example Sentence: "I'm exhausted; it's time to hit the hay."

Burn one's bridges:

Explanation: This expression means to damage relationships or cut off all possibilities of return.
Example Sentence: "Quitting the job without notice could burn bridges with potential employers."

Jump on the bandwagon:

Megan Ambler TEFL Tutor - Idiomatic Expressions
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Explanation: It means to join others in doing something that has become fashionable or popular.
Example Sentence: "Many companies are jumping on the bandwagon of sustainable practices."

Throw in the towel:

Explanation: This means to give up or surrender.
Example Sentence: "After numerous failed attempts, he decided to throw in the towel and try a
different approach."

Spill the beans:

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Explanation: It means to disclose a secret or reveal information that was supposed to be kept

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confidential.
Example Sentence: "I promised not to spill the beans about the surprise party, but it was too

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hard to keep it a secret."

Cost a pretty penny:

Explanation: It means something is expensive or costs a significant amount of money.

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Example Sentence: "Renovating the kitchen is going to cost a pretty penny, but it'll be worth it."

A dime a dozen: TE
Explanation: It means something is very common or easy to find.
Example Sentence: "Those trinkets are a dime a dozen; you can find them in any souvenir
shop."
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Cutting corners:
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Explanation: This expression refers to doing something in the easiest or cheapest way, often
sacrificing quality.
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Example Sentence: "They are cutting corners to meet the deadline, but the final product may
suffer."

Call it a day:
Explanation: It means to decide to stop working on something, usually for the rest of the day.
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Example Sentence: "We've made good progress on the project; let's call it a day and continue
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tomorrow."
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Out of the blue:

Explanation: This expression means something happens unexpectedly or without warning.
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Example Sentence: "She called me out of the blue, and we ended up having a long
conversation."

Bite off more than you can chew:

Explanation: It means to take on a task that is way too big or commit to something that is too
challenging.
Example Sentence: "I think I bit off more than I can chew with this project; it's more complex
than I anticipated."
Megan Ambler TEFL Tutor - Idiomatic Expressions
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Break a leg:
Explanation: This expression is used to wish someone good luck, especially before a
performance or event.
Example Sentence: "Break a leg in your audition tomorrow; I'm sure you'll do great!"

Cry over spilled milk:

Explanation: It means to be upset about something that has already happened and cannot be
changed.

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Example Sentence: "I know you made a mistake, but there's no use crying over spilled milk.

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Let's focus on finding a solution."

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Don't count your chickens before they hatch:
Explanation: It means not to make plans based on something that may not happen.
Example Sentence: "We might get the contract, but let's not count our chickens before they
hatch."

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Hold your horses:
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Explanation: It means to be patient or wait before taking action.
Example Sentence: "Hold your horses! We need more information before making a decision."

These idiomatic expressions add nuance and specificity to language use, and their meanings
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are often learned through exposure and usage rather than through direct analysis of individual
words. They contribute to the richness and nuances of the English language. Understanding
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them can enhance communication and help learners sound more natural in their language use.
They contribute to the diverse and dynamic nature of the English language. They are commonly
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used in both casual and formal contexts, adding flair and clarity to communication.
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