In the first article of our new series “English Idioms for Newcomers”, let’s take a look at this expression: “more than meets the eye”. What does it mean? How to use it?
Cutting corners
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “cutting corners”. What does “cutting corners” mean? “Cutting corners” means: Doing something poorly in order to save time or money Examples: It is not a good idea to cut corners when making products that other people will use. His boss reminded him that cutting corners when completing this …
Hit the nail on the head
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “hit the nail on the head.” What does “hit the nail on the head” mean? “Hit the nail on the head” means: Do or say something exactly right Examples: I think Maria hit the nail on the head with her comment about the impact of vacation on workers’ …
Sit on the fence
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “sit on the fence.” What does “sit on the fence” mean? “Sit on the fence” means: To avoid making a choice or decision between two or more possibilities Not to take sides in a dispute Examples: You can’t sit on the fence any longer—you need to choose whether you are staying in Nova Scotia …
Hit the Ground Running
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “Hit the ground running”, which means: To immediately work hard and successfully at a new activity. If you hit the ground running, you start a new activity with a lot of enthusiasm and energy and do not waste any time. This expression can often be used in a …
The Ball is in Your Court
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “the ball is in your court.” What does “the ball is in your court” mean? “The ball is in your court” means: You have the responsibility of taking the next action or a making decision Examples: She apologized for betraying him and asked if they could continue their …
Once in a Blue Moon
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “once in a blue moon.” What does “once in a blue moon” mean? “Once in a blue moon” means: Rarely Examples: He only buys me flowers once in a blue moon. She doesn’t get angry often; it only happens once in a blue moon. Before you go, check …
Hang in there
In today’s English Idioms for Newcomers, let’s take a look at this expression: “hang in there.” What does “hang in there” mean? “Hang in there” means: Don’t give up Examples: Hang in there! Even though you did not succeed at this job interview, I am confident you will find the right job if you keep applying. Before you go, check …
Beat around the bush
In today’s “English Idioms for Newcomers,” let’s take a look at this expression: “Beat around the bush.” What does “Beat around the bush” mean? “Beat around the bush” means: To avoid the point To talk about unimportant things because you want to avoid talking about what is really important Examples: Why are you beating around the bush instead of telling me what …
Take it with a pinch of salt
In today’s “English Idioms for Newcomers”, let’s take a look at this expression: “Take it with a pinch of salt.” What does “Take it with a pinch of salt” mean? “Take it with a pinch of salt” means: Do not take it too seriously. Examples: Martha often exaggerates the achievements she’s had in her painting career, so I take everything she …
