Idioms are like hidden treasures in language, adding flavor and fun to how we speak. In this guide, we’ll explore over 25 common idioms for IELTS speaking with meaning. Understanding these phrases goes beyond words; it’s about expressing yourself creatively and showing your language skills in a whole new light.
Moreover, we will share strategies to help you learn, remember, and use idioms naturally. Whether you aim to impress or simply enjoy playing with words, mastering these idioms will elevate your English skills.
Stay tuned to know the secrets of these expressions and learn how to effortlessly use them into your IELTS speaking practice.
What are Idioms?
Idioms are phrases that don’t mean what their individual words say. Instead, they have a special meaning that’s different from the literal words. For example, “kick the bucket” doesn’t really mean someone is kicking a bucket; it means someone has passed away. These phrases are like secret codes in a language because their real meaning isn’t obvious just by looking at the words.
People use idioms a lot in everyday conversations. They make language more colorful and interesting. Sometimes, idioms can be tricky for new learners because they might not understand the hidden meaning behind the words. But once you learn them, they can add a lot of fun and expression to your conversations!
Importance of Idioms in IELTS Speaking
Here are some importance of idioms in IELTS speaking:
1. Enhancing Language Fluency
Idioms play a big role in IELTS speaking because they show you can use English in a more natural way. When you use idioms, it shows that you understand the language deeply. It’s like adding spices to your language dish—idioms make your speech more flavorful and interesting.
2. Displaying Cultural Understanding
Knowing idioms is like having a secret key to understanding a culture. When you use idioms in the IELTS speaking test, it demonstrates that you know not just the language, but also the customs and traditions associated with it. This can impress the examiners and show your broader grasp of English.
3. Expressing Ideas Creatively
Idioms are like little creative tools in your language toolbox. In the IELTS speaking test, they help you express your thoughts and ideas in a more creative and vivid way. They make your speech stand out and show that you can paint pictures with words.
4. Improving Communication Skills
Using idioms effectively in the IELTS speaking test can make your communication clearer and more effective. Sometimes, an idiom can express a complex idea in just a few words, making it easier for the examiner to understand your point without having to explain a lot.
5. Showing Language Proficiency
When you use idioms correctly, it demonstrates a high level of language proficiency. It’s like showing off your language skills in a sophisticated manner. It helps the examiner see that you are not just memorizing words but truly understanding how to use them in different situations.
Also Read : How To Improve Sentence Formation In IELTS
Most Common Idioms For IELTS Speaking With Meaning
Explore most common idioms for IELTS speaking with meaning. You can use the idioms wisely:
| No. | Idiom | Meaning | Example |
| 1 | A piece of cake | Something very easy | The exam was a piece of cake for her. |
| 2 | Break the ice | To initiate a conversation or friendship | He told a joke to break the ice at the party. |
| 3 | Cost an arm and a leg | Very expensive | That designer bag costs an arm and a leg. |
| 4 | Don’t cry over spilled milk | Don’t worry about things that can’t be changed | I made a mistake, but there’s no use crying over spilled milk. |
| 5 | Easy as pie | Very easy | Cooking this dish is easy as pie. |
| 6 | Face the music | Accepting the consequences | After breaking the window, he had to face the music. |
| 7 | Get cold feet | To feel nervous or scared before doing something | He got cold feet before skydiving. |
| 8 | Hit the nail on the head | To describe something exactly right | His explanation hit the nail on the head. |
| 9 | It’s raining cats and dogs | Raining heavily | We can’t go out; it’s raining cats and dogs. |
| 10 | Jump the gun | To do something too soon | He jumped the gun by announcing the news early. |
| 11 | Keep an eye on | To watch or take care of something | Please keep an eye on the baby for a moment. |
| 12 | Let the cat out of the bag | Reveal a secret | She accidentally let the cat out of the bag. |
| 13 | Miss the boat | To miss an opportunity | I missed the boat by not investing earlier. |
| 14 | Not playing with a full deck | Not intelligent | He seems nice, but he’s not playing with a full deck. |
| 15 | On thin ice | In a risky or uncertain situation | He’s on thin ice with his risky investments. |
| 16 | Piece of mind | Feeling of calm or tranquility | Yoga gives her a piece of mind. |
| 17 | Quick as a wink | Very fast | She finished the race quick as a wink. |
| 18 | Rule of thumb | General guideline or principle | As a rule of thumb, always check the reviews. |
| 19 | Spill the beans | Reveal a secret | He accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party. |
| 20 | Take with a grain of salt | To not completely believe something | I take his stories with a grain of salt. |
| 21 | Under the weather | Feeling unwell or sick | She’s feeling under the weather today. |
| 22 | Vanishing act | Disappearing suddenly | He pulled a vanishing act before the meeting. |
| 23 | Wild goose chase | Futile pursuit or a hopeless search | Searching for his lost keys was a wild goose chase. |
| 24 | X marks the spot | Location of something important or desired | He found the treasure; X marks the spot. |
| 25 | Your guess is as good as mine | I don’t know either | When the results will be out? Your guess is as good as mine. |
| 26 | Zip one’s lips | Keep quiet, not reveal anything | He decided to zip his lips about the surprise party. |
Also Read: How To Prepare For IELTS Speaking Part 2
Strategies to Learn and Practice Idioms
Learning and practicing idioms can be fun and effective with the right strategies. One helpful approach is to integrate idioms into your daily routine, using them in conversations or writing. Additionally, keeping a list and regularly reviewing idioms can aid in better retention and understanding.
- Create Flashcards: Make flashcards with an idiom on one side and its meaning on the other. Quiz yourself regularly to reinforce memory.
- Read Widely: Explore books, articles, or stories that use idioms. Highlight and note down new ones you encounter.
- Practice Contextual Usage: Try using idioms in sentences or stories to grasp their appropriate context and meaning.
- Engage in Conversations: Incorporate idioms when talking to friends or family. Practice using them naturally.
- Watch Movies/TV Shows: Pay attention to idioms used in dialogues. Note them down and understand how they’re employed.
- Online Resources: Use online platforms or apps that focus on teaching idioms. Many provide quizzes and exercises.
- Keep a Journal: Write down your favorite idioms, where you heard them, and their meanings. Review this regularly.
These strategies help reinforce understanding and make learning idioms more engaging and practical in everyday life.
How to Use Idioms into IELTS Speaking
Here are few steps on how to use idioms into IELTS speaking:
Step 1: Understand the Meaning
Before using any idiom in the IELTS speaking test, ensure you truly grasp its meaning. Idioms can be tricky because their literal words might not make sense. Take time to research and understand what the idiom expresses beyond its surface words. For instance, “raining cats and dogs” doesn’t mean actual animals falling from the sky—it means heavy rain. Understanding this ensures you use idioms appropriately and effectively.
Step 2: Practice in Context
It’s not just about knowing the meanings; it’s also about understanding when and how to use idioms. Practice incorporating them into sentences that fit everyday situations. This practice helps in two ways: it familiarizes you with the context in which the idiom is used and helps in recalling them more naturally during the IELTS speaking test. Creating scenarios where you use idioms aids in memorization and application.
Step 3: Don’t Force It
While idioms can enhance your speech, avoid forcing them into your conversation or test answers. Only use idioms when they fit naturally and convey the intended meaning. Forcing idioms where they don’t belong can confuse your message and may give the impression that you’re trying too hard. It’s better to communicate clearly without an idiom than to use one incorrectly.
Step 4: Know Formal vs. Informal
Be mindful of the formality of idioms. Some are more casual or informal, while others are neutral or formal. In the IELTS speaking test, opt for idioms that are more neutral or formal to maintain a professional tone. Understanding the formality level helps you choose the right idioms suitable for the context of the test.
Step 5: Revise Regularly
Consistent revision is key to retaining the idioms you’ve learned. Reviewing idioms regularly ensures they stay fresh in your memory and easily accessible during the IELTS speaking test. Flashcards, practice conversations, or incorporating them into writing exercises are effective ways to keep idioms at the forefront of your mind.
Conclusion
Understanding idioms for IELTS speaking opens a door to richer language expression. They’re not just phrases; they’re keys to cultural understanding and linguistic flair. Practice, integration into daily life, and understanding their context are your tools for success. Embrace idioms as your allies in language enhancement. Remember, it’s not about showing off but about showcasing your depth of understanding.
Be natural, be confident, and let idioms add sparkle to your speech. So, dive into this world of idiomatic expressions, make them your own, and watch how they transform your IELTS speaking journey. Enjoy the journey of learning, speaking, and connecting through language!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to use idioms in IELTS speaking?
Yes, using idioms in IELTS speaking is okay, but it’s crucial to use them appropriately and when you’re confident about their meanings. Correctly used idioms can showcase language fluency, cultural understanding, and creativity, adding depth to your speech.
Is speaking hard in IELTS?
Speaking in IELTS can be challenging due to time pressure and the need for fluency, coherence, and vocabulary range. However, regular practice, familiarity with the test format, and strategies such as paraphrasing and organizing ideas can significantly improve your speaking skills for the test.
