10 English language idioms that you might not know

Idioms are the whimsical threads woven into the fabric of languages, and English is particularly rich in them. These expressions, often puzzling to non-native speakers, offer a unique window into the cultural and historical intricacies of the language. At Melissa Your Tutor, we specialize in English conversation practice for non-native speakers. Our goal is not just to teach English but to delve deep into its nuances, making learning a journey of cultural exploration and discovery.

Here are 10 English idioms that might be new to you, each a little piece of linguistic artistry.

1. To Have a Skeleton in the Closet

Originating from a time when anatomy was a taboo subject, this idiom signifies having a dark, hidden secret or shame. It's a vivid metaphor suggesting that just as skeletons are kept out of sight, so are certain personal matters. In our lessons, we explore the contexts in which this idiom can be effectively used, such as discussing personal histories or secrets in a literary work.

2. More Holes than Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is famous for its holes, and this idiom humorously compares a problematic or flawed situation to this characteristic. It's a light-hearted way of critiquing something without being overly harsh. In our sessions, we encourage students to use such expressions in role-play scenarios, enhancing their conversational skills and understanding of context.

3. Like Herding Cats

An idiom perfect for describing any attempt to control the uncontrollable. In a business context, where teamwork and management are key, this expression often surfaces. We introduce learners to such business-related idioms, preparing them for real-world English usage in professional environments.

4. To Buy a Lemon

This term has its roots in the early 20th century, when buying a car was often a gamble. A 'lemon' is something that turns out to be defective or disappointing. This idiom extends beyond just cars—it's useful in any context involving purchasing decisions and consumer rights, topics we cover in our advanced conversation classes.

5. To Have Bigger Fish to Fry

With origins possibly tracing back to the 17th century, this idiom conveys prioritizing larger or more important tasks over smaller ones. It's a great example of how idioms can make language more colorful and effective, especially in a business or planning context.

6. To Steal Someone’s Thunder

This idiom has a fascinating origin, reportedly from the 18th century involving a literal theatrical thunder machine. It means to take the credit or attention rightfully owed to someone else. In our lessons, we explore the subtle nuances of using such idioms in both professional and personal settings.

7. To Go Down a Rabbit Hole

Inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland," this idiom represents becoming deeply engrossed in an expansive or intricate subject. It perfectly describes the experience of getting lost in a topic, a common occurrence in the vast world of English learning, which we tackle in our courses. 

8. To Let the Cat out of the Bag

This idiom has a cloudy origin, possibly dating back to medieval markets where dishonest sellers would replace valuable pigs with cats in bags. It means to reveal a secret, often inadvertently. Our learners explore historical contexts like these to understand the idiomatic expressions better.

9. To Burn the Midnight Oil

This phrase dates back to a time when oil lamps were the primary source of light. It metaphorically means to work late into the night or during the early morning hours, a concept familiar in today's fast-paced world and a frequent topic in our business English modules.

10. Not Playing with a Full Deck

Originally from the world of card games, this slightly impolite idiom suggests someone isn’t very smart or lacks common sense. Understanding the tone and appropriateness of using such expressions is a crucial part of our teaching strategy.

FAQs

What is unique about Melissa Your Tutor’s approach to teaching English to non-native speakers?

At Melissa Your Tutor, we believe in a holistic and immersive approach to language learning. Our teaching method is unique because it combines traditional grammatical instruction with real-life conversational practice. We focus on the cultural nuances of the English language, incorporating idioms, slang, and real-world scenarios that prepare our students for genuine, everyday interactions. Our small class sizes and personalized attention ensure that each student's specific needs and learning styles are addressed.

Can beginners benefit from your English conversation practice sessions?

Absolutely! Our programs are tailored to suit learners at all levels, including beginners. For beginners, we start with the fundamentals of conversational English, gradually introducing them to more complex structures and concepts, including idioms and cultural nuances. Our aim is to build a strong foundation that enables beginners to progress confidently and comfortably at their own pace.

Is there a specific age group or demographic that Melissa Your Tutor caters to for English conversation practice?

Melissa Your Tutor welcomes students of all ages and backgrounds. Our programs are designed to cater to a diverse range of learners, from school-aged children to adults and professionals. We tailor our teaching methods and materials to suit the specific learning needs and goals of different age groups, ensuring an effective and enjoyable learning experience for everyone.

How does Melissa Your Tutor track and assess the progress of students in English conversation practice?

We use a combination of continuous assessment and regular feedback to track our students' progress. This includes periodic proficiency tests, speaking and listening exercises, and interactive activities during the sessions. Additionally, progress is monitored through homework assignments and participation in class discussions. Regular feedback is provided to students to highlight their strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring that they have a clear understanding of their progress and what steps are needed to further enhance their language skills.

Mastering Idioms with Melissa Your Tutor

Idioms are more than just phrases; they encapsulate the humor, history, and collective experience of a language community. At Melissa Your Tutor, we ensure that learning these expressions is a key part of English conversation practice for non-native speakers. Through a blend of personalized lessons, practical exercises, and engaging discussions, we aim to make mastering English a fulfilling and enjoyable goal.