Natural English
Idioms & Phrases
The expressions native speakers actually use in conversation, at work, and in school — explained with meaning, tone, and real examples.
Idioms are one of the fastest ways to sound natural in English. Each note here explains what the idiom means, how formal or casual it is, and gives an example you could use today — organised by setting (work, school, conversation) and by theme (animals, the body), plus a guide to the proverbs that every learner hears.
Notes in this section
25 Business Idioms You'll Actually Hear
From 'touch base' to 'move the needle' — what they mean and how to use them.
A2–B130 Everyday Idioms With Meaning & Examples
Common idioms for daily conversation, grouped by the feeling they express.
B1–B225 Idioms for Daily Conversation
Grouped by function — agreeing, disagreeing, giving advice, and more.
B1–B220 English Idioms for Students
Idioms about studying, exams, and school life.
B1–C129 Animal Idioms With Meanings
Cats, dogs, horses, birds and elephants — from "let the cat out of the bag" to "a white elephant".
B1–C128 Body Idioms in English
Head to toe: see eye to eye, get cold feet, bite your tongue, break a leg.
A2–B230 English Proverbs With Meaning
Traditional sayings with advice — and how proverbs differ from idioms.
Keep exploring
Related on English Notes
Frequently asked
Questions about idioms & phrases
How many idioms should I try to learn at once?
Aim for 5–10 per week, ideally grouped by theme as in these notes. Trying to memorise large, disconnected lists tends to result in poor retention — using a handful actively in conversation works far better than passively reading many.
Are idioms used the same way in formal writing as in speech?
No — most idioms, including the ones in this section, are conversational and too casual for formal essays or reports. Business idioms sit closer to semi-formal, but even those are best kept out of strictly formal written documents.
More idioms & phrases notes are added every week.
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