What are some common idioms in English and what do they mean?

Idioms are phrases where the meaning isn't literal—you have to learn them as a whole concept. Here are some of the most common ones you'll hear in English:

1. "Piece of cake"

• Meaning: Something that is very easy to do.
• Example: "The exam was a piece of cake."

2. "Break a leg"

• Meaning: A way to say "good luck," usually to someone about to perform or give a presentation.
• Example: "I know you’ll do great on stage tonight, break a leg!"

3. "Under the weather"

• Meaning: Feeling sick or not well.
• Example: "I can't go to the party tonight; I’m feeling a bit under the weather."

4. "Cost an arm and a leg"

• Meaning: Something that is very expensive.
• Example: "That new car cost an arm and a leg."

5. "Hit the nail on the head"

• Meaning: To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem; to be exactly right about something.
• Example: "You hit the nail on the head when you said the team needs better communication."

6. "Let the cat out of the bag"

• Meaning: To accidentally reveal a secret.
• Example: "We were planning a surprise party, but my brother let the cat out of the bag."

7. "Better late than never"

• Meaning: It is better to arrive or do something late than not to do it at all.
• Example: "I’m sorry I’m late! Well, better late than never."

8. "Call it a day"

• Meaning: To decide to stop working on something.
• Example: "We've been working for ten hours; let's call it a day."

Would you like to try using one of these in a sentence, or would you like to hear a few more?