English Phrases, Idioms, and Proverbs
1. A blessing in disguise
Meaning: Something that seems bad at first but turns out to be good
Example 1: Losing that job was a blessing in disguise because I found a better one.
Example 2: The rain was a blessing in disguise; it cooled the hot city.
Example 3: Missing the bus became a blessing in disguise when we met an old friend.
2. A dime a dozen
Meaning: Very common and easy to find
Example 1: Cheap plastic pens are a dime a dozen in this market.
Example 2: Good ideas are a dime a dozen; hard work is rare.
Example 3: Mobile phone shops are a dime a dozen in our town.
3. A hot potato
Meaning: A topic that is difficult or risky to discuss
Example 1: Politics is a hot potato at family dinners.
Example 2: The school fee issue became a hot potato for the principal.
Example 3: Nobody wanted to touch that hot potato of a problem.
4. A piece of cake
Meaning: Something very easy to do
Example 1: The maths test was a piece of cake.
Example 2: Making tea is a piece of cake for me.
Example 3: Don't worry, fixing this tap is a piece of cake.
5. A red herring
Meaning: Something that takes attention away from the real issue
Example 1: The missing key turned out to be a red herring in the story.
Example 2: His long speech was just a red herring to avoid the question.
Example 3: Do not follow that clue; it is a red herring.
6. A storm in a teacup
Meaning: A big fuss about something small
Example 1: The argument over the seat was a storm in a teacup.
Example 2: Their quarrel was just a storm in a teacup and ended in minutes.
Example 3: Don't worry about the rumour; it's a storm in a teacup.
7. Add fuel to the fire
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse
Example 1: Shouting at him will only add fuel to the fire.
Example 2: Her rude reply added fuel to the fire.
Example 3: Don't add fuel to the fire by sharing that gossip.
8. Apple of my eye
Meaning: A person who is loved very much
Example 1: Her youngest son is the apple of her eye.
Example 2: The little girl is the apple of her grandfather's eye.
Example 3: He is the apple of his teacher's eye.
9. At the drop of a hat
Meaning: Immediately, without any delay
Example 1: She will help you at the drop of a hat.
Example 2: He is ready to travel at the drop of a hat.
Example 3: Some people get angry at the drop of a hat.
10. Back to square one
Meaning: Back at the beginning after a failure
Example 1: The plan failed, so we are back to square one.
Example 2: My computer crashed and I was back to square one.
Example 3: After the new rule, the team went back to square one.
11. Barking up the wrong tree
Meaning: Making a wrong guess or blaming the wrong person
Example 1: If you think I broke the window, you are barking up the wrong tree.
Example 2: The police were barking up the wrong tree for weeks.
Example 3: You're barking up the wrong tree if you want money from me.
12. Beat around the bush
Meaning: To avoid saying the main point directly
Example 1: Stop beating around the bush and tell me the truth.
Example 2: He beat around the bush before asking for a loan.
Example 3: Please don't beat around the bush; just answer yes or no.
13. Bite off more than you can chew
Meaning: To take on more work than you can handle
Example 1: I bit off more than I could chew by joining three clubs.
Example 2: Don't bite off more than you can chew this week.
Example 3: She realised she had bitten off more than she could chew.
14. Bite the bullet
Meaning: To do something difficult or unpleasant bravely
Example 1: I had to bite the bullet and visit the dentist.
Example 2: He bit the bullet and told his boss the bad news.
Example 3: Just bite the bullet and finish the project tonight.
15. Break a leg
Meaning: Good luck (said before a performance)
Example 1: Break a leg in your school play tonight!
Example 2: She told me to break a leg before my song.
Example 3: Everyone shouted 'Break a leg!' to the dancers.
16. Break the ice
Meaning: To start a friendly talk with new people
Example 1: A joke helped him break the ice at the party.
Example 2: The teacher played a game to break the ice on the first day.
Example 3: She smiled to break the ice with her new neighbour.
17. Bring home the bacon
Meaning: To earn money for the family
Example 1: My father brings home the bacon for our family.
Example 2: She works two jobs to bring home the bacon.
Example 3: Who brings home the bacon in your house?
18. Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To work or study very late at night
Example 1: I burned the midnight oil before my exams.
Example 2: The team burned the midnight oil to finish the project.
Example 3: She is burning the midnight oil to write her book.
19. Butterflies in my stomach
Meaning: A nervous feeling before something important
Example 1: I had butterflies in my stomach before the speech.
Example 2: He gets butterflies in his stomach on the first day of school.
Example 3: She felt butterflies in her stomach at the interview.
20. By the skin of your teeth
Meaning: Only just; by a very small margin
Example 1: We caught the train by the skin of our teeth.
Example 2: He passed the exam by the skin of his teeth.
Example 3: The goalkeeper saved the ball by the skin of his teeth.
21. Call it a day
Meaning: To stop working for now
Example 1: We are tired, so let's call it a day.
Example 2: After ten hours of work, they called it a day.
Example 3: It's getting dark, so we should call it a day.
22. Cold feet
Meaning: Sudden fear before doing something important
Example 1: He got cold feet just before the wedding.
Example 2: Don't get cold feet now; you have practised enough.
Example 3: She had cold feet about jumping into the pool.
23. Cost an arm and a leg
Meaning: To be very expensive
Example 1: That new phone costs an arm and a leg.
Example 2: Doctors' bills can cost an arm and a leg.
Example 3: A big house in the city costs an arm and a leg.
24. Cross that bridge when you come to it
Meaning: Deal with a problem only when it actually happens
Example 1: We don't know if it will rain; we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Example 2: Don't worry about the results yet; cross that bridge when you come to it.
Example 3: If the bus is late, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
25. Cry over spilled milk
Meaning: To be upset about something that cannot be changed
Example 1: It's done, so there's no use crying over spilled milk.
Example 2: Don't cry over spilled milk; just study harder next time.
Example 3: He kept crying over spilled milk after losing the match.
26. Cut corners
Meaning: To do something in a cheap or careless way to save time or money
Example 1: The builder cut corners and the wall cracked.
Example 2: Never cut corners when you cook for guests.
Example 3: The company cut corners on safety.
27. Cut to the chase
Meaning: To get to the main point quickly
Example 1: Let's cut to the chase: can you help me or not?
Example 2: She cut to the chase and asked for the price.
Example 3: I'm busy, so please cut to the chase.
28. Face the music
Meaning: To accept the punishment or result of your actions
Example 1: He broke the window and had to face the music.
Example 2: It's time to face the music and tell Dad about the marks.
Example 3: She faced the music and apologised.
29. Fall on deaf ears
Meaning: To be ignored
Example 1: My advice fell on deaf ears.
Example 2: The villagers' request fell on deaf ears.
Example 3: His warnings fell on deaf ears.
30. Get out of hand
Meaning: To become difficult to control
Example 1: The party got out of hand after midnight.
Example 2: The class got out of hand when the teacher left.
Example 3: Spending can easily get out of hand.
31. Give someone the cold shoulder
Meaning: To ignore someone on purpose
Example 1: She gave me the cold shoulder after our fight.
Example 2: Why is he giving you the cold shoulder?
Example 3: The new student was given the cold shoulder at first.
32. Go back to the drawing board
Meaning: To start planning again after a failure
Example 1: The design failed, so we went back to the drawing board.
Example 2: If this idea doesn't work, it's back to the drawing board.
Example 3: The engineers had to go back to the drawing board.
33. Go the extra mile
Meaning: To make more effort than expected
Example 1: She always goes the extra mile for her students.
Example 2: The waiter went the extra mile to make us happy.
Example 3: If you go the extra mile, you will succeed.
34. Green with envy
Meaning: Very jealous
Example 1: I was green with envy when I saw her new bicycle.
Example 2: He was green with envy at his friend's trophy.
Example 3: She turned green with envy over their big house.
35. Head over heels
Meaning: Completely in love
Example 1: He fell head over heels for her.
Example 2: They are head over heels in love.
Example 3: I'm head over heels about this new puppy.
36. Hit the books
Meaning: To study hard
Example 1: I need to hit the books for the science test.
Example 2: Hit the books tonight; the exam is tomorrow.
Example 3: She hit the books after dinner.
37. Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: To say or do exactly the right thing
Example 1: You hit the nail on the head with that answer.
Example 2: His comment hit the nail on the head.
Example 3: She hit the nail on the head about our problem.
38. Hit the sack
Meaning: To go to bed
Example 1: I'm tired, so I'm going to hit the sack.
Example 2: He hit the sack right after dinner.
Example 3: Let's hit the sack early tonight.
39. Hold your horses
Meaning: Wait; be patient
Example 1: Hold your horses! The food isn't ready yet.
Example 2: Hold your horses, we'll leave in five minutes.
Example 3: She told the kids to hold their horses.
40. In a nutshell
Meaning: In a few words; briefly
Example 1: In a nutshell, we lost the game.
Example 2: Tell me the story in a nutshell.
Example 3: In a nutshell, the plan is to leave at six.
41. In hot water
Meaning: In trouble
Example 1: He was in hot water for coming late.
Example 2: She got into hot water for lying.
Example 3: You'll be in hot water if you forget your homework.
42. In the same boat
Meaning: In the same difficult situation as others
Example 1: We are all in the same boat; nobody finished the work.
Example 2: Don't worry, I'm in the same boat as you.
Example 3: Many farmers are in the same boat this year.
43. Jump the gun
Meaning: To start something too early
Example 1: Don't jump the gun; the results are not out yet.
Example 2: He jumped the gun and shared the news too soon.
Example 3: The runner jumped the gun at the start.
44. Keep your chin up
Meaning: Stay cheerful in a hard time
Example 1: Keep your chin up; things will get better.
Example 2: She kept her chin up after losing the race.
Example 3: Just keep your chin up and try again.
45. Kill two birds with one stone
Meaning: To solve two problems with one action
Example 1: I killed two birds with one stone by shopping on my way home.
Example 2: Walking to school kills two birds with one stone: it saves money and keeps me fit.
Example 3: Let's kill two birds with one stone and visit both uncles today.
46. Leave no stone unturned
Meaning: To try every possible way
Example 1: The police left no stone unturned in the search.
Example 2: She left no stone unturned to find her lost ring.
Example 3: We will leave no stone unturned to win.
47. Lend a hand
Meaning: To help
Example 1: Can you lend a hand with these bags?
Example 2: He always lends a hand in the kitchen.
Example 3: The villagers lent a hand to build the bridge.
48. Let sleeping dogs lie
Meaning: Don't disturb a situation that is calm
Example 1: The fight is over, so let sleeping dogs lie.
Example 2: I didn't ask about the old problem; I let sleeping dogs lie.
Example 3: It's better to let sleeping dogs lie.
49. Let the cat out of the bag
Meaning: To tell a secret by mistake
Example 1: He let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.
Example 2: Don't let the cat out of the bag before Sunday.
Example 3: Who let the cat out of the bag?
50. Make a long story short
Meaning: To tell something quickly
Example 1: To make a long story short, we missed the flight.
Example 2: Make a long story short, did you get the job?
Example 3: To make a long story short, he said yes.
51. Miss the boat
Meaning: To lose a chance
Example 1: If you wait any longer, you'll miss the boat.
Example 2: He missed the boat by not applying on time.
Example 3: Don't miss the boat on this great offer.
52. Neck and neck
Meaning: Very close in a race or contest
Example 1: The two runners were neck and neck at the end.
Example 2: The teams are neck and neck in the points table.
Example 3: They ran neck and neck to the finish line.
53. On cloud nine
Meaning: Extremely happy
Example 1: She was on cloud nine after winning the prize.
Example 2: He's been on cloud nine since the good news.
Example 3: The students were on cloud nine on the last day of school.
54. On the fence
Meaning: Unable to decide
Example 1: I'm on the fence about which college to choose.
Example 2: She is on the fence about joining the club.
Example 3: Stop sitting on the fence and pick one.
55. Once in a blue moon
Meaning: Very rarely
Example 1: We eat out once in a blue moon.
Example 2: He visits his village once in a blue moon.
Example 3: It snows here once in a blue moon.
56. Out of the blue
Meaning: Suddenly and unexpectedly
Example 1: A letter from my old friend came out of the blue.
Example 2: He called me out of the blue.
Example 3: Out of the blue, it started to pour.
57. Over the moon
Meaning: Very happy
Example 1: She was over the moon about her results.
Example 2: We are over the moon about the new baby.
Example 3: He was over the moon when his team won.
58. Pay through the nose
Meaning: To pay far too much
Example 1: We paid through the nose for those concert tickets.
Example 2: Tourists often pay through the nose here.
Example 3: I don't want to pay through the nose for a small room.
59. Play it by ear
Meaning: To decide step by step without a fixed plan
Example 1: We have no plan, so let's play it by ear.
Example 2: I'll play it by ear and see how I feel tomorrow.
Example 3: The coach played it by ear during the match.
60. Pull someone's leg
Meaning: To joke with someone in a playful way
Example 1: Are you serious or are you pulling my leg?
Example 2: He was only pulling your leg.
Example 3: She loves to pull her brother's leg.
61. Raining cats and dogs
Meaning: Raining very heavily
Example 1: It was raining cats and dogs, so we stayed at home.
Example 2: I got wet because it was raining cats and dogs.
Example 3: Take an umbrella; it's raining cats and dogs.
62. Read between the lines
Meaning: To understand a hidden meaning
Example 1: If you read between the lines, he is unhappy.
Example 2: Her letter was polite, but you must read between the lines.
Example 3: Learn to read between the lines in news stories.
63. Ring a bell
Meaning: To sound familiar
Example 1: That name rings a bell, but I can't remember him.
Example 2: Does the word 'Kaziranga' ring a bell?
Example 3: The address rings a bell.
64. Rock the boat
Meaning: To cause trouble in a calm situation
Example 1: Please don't rock the boat just before the exam.
Example 2: She didn't want to rock the boat at work.
Example 3: He rocked the boat by changing the rules.
65. Rule of thumb
Meaning: A simple, practical guide
Example 1: As a rule of thumb, drink eight glasses of water a day.
Example 2: My rule of thumb is to sleep before midnight.
Example 3: Use this as a rule of thumb, not a strict law.
66. See eye to eye
Meaning: To agree with someone
Example 1: The two brothers don't see eye to eye on anything.
Example 2: We see eye to eye about the plan.
Example 3: Teachers and parents must see eye to eye.
67. Sleep on it
Meaning: To think about something overnight before deciding
Example 1: I'll sleep on it and tell you tomorrow.
Example 2: Let me sleep on it before I buy the phone.
Example 3: Why not sleep on it and decide in the morning?
68. Spick and span
Meaning: Very clean and neat
Example 1: Mother kept the house spick and span.
Example 2: The classroom looked spick and span on Monday.
Example 3: He keeps his shoes spick and span.
69. Spill the beans
Meaning: To reveal a secret
Example 1: Come on, spill the beans! Who won?
Example 2: Someone spilled the beans about the gift.
Example 3: He spilled the beans about our trip.
70. Take it with a pinch of salt
Meaning: Do not believe it completely
Example 1: Take his stories with a pinch of salt.
Example 2: Take news from social media with a pinch of salt.
Example 3: She took the advertisement with a pinch of salt.
71. Take the bull by the horns
Meaning: To face a problem bravely
Example 1: He took the bull by the horns and fixed the issue.
Example 2: It's time to take the bull by the horns and speak up.
Example 3: She took the bull by the horns and started her own shop.
72. The ball is in your court
Meaning: It is your turn to act or decide
Example 1: I've made my offer; now the ball is in your court.
Example 2: The ball is in your court, so choose wisely.
Example 3: We did our part; the ball is in their court.
73. The elephant in the room
Meaning: A big problem that everyone avoids talking about
Example 1: His poor marks were the elephant in the room.
Example 2: Nobody mentioned the elephant in the room at dinner.
Example 3: Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the budget.
74. The last straw
Meaning: The final problem that makes you lose patience
Example 1: Being late again was the last straw for his boss.
Example 2: When he broke my pen, it was the last straw.
Example 3: That rude remark was the last straw.
75. The tip of the iceberg
Meaning: A small visible part of a much bigger problem
Example 1: The few complaints were only the tip of the iceberg.
Example 2: This mistake is just the tip of the iceberg.
Example 3: The litter on the road is the tip of the iceberg.
76. Through thick and thin
Meaning: In good times and bad times
Example 1: True friends stay together through thick and thin.
Example 2: She stood by him through thick and thin.
Example 3: Our dog stayed with us through thick and thin.
77. Throw caution to the wind
Meaning: To take a big risk without worrying
Example 1: He threw caution to the wind and started a business.
Example 2: She threw caution to the wind and jumped in.
Example 3: Don't throw caution to the wind with your health.
78. Throw in the towel
Meaning: To give up
Example 1: After three failures, he threw in the towel.
Example 2: Don't throw in the towel; try once more.
Example 3: The boxer threw in the towel in round five.
79. Time flies
Meaning: Time passes very quickly
Example 1: Time flies when you are having fun.
Example 2: It's already June; how time flies!
Example 3: Time flies, so use it well.
80. Turn a blind eye
Meaning: To pretend not to see something wrong
Example 1: The guard turned a blind eye to the noise.
Example 2: Don't turn a blind eye to bullying.
Example 3: The teacher turned a blind eye to small mistakes.
81. Under the weather
Meaning: Feeling a little sick
Example 1: I'm feeling under the weather today.
Example 2: She stayed home because she was under the weather.
Example 3: He looks a bit under the weather.
82. Up in the air
Meaning: Not yet decided
Example 1: Our trip plans are still up in the air.
Example 2: The match date is up in the air because of rain.
Example 3: My job future is up in the air.
83. Water under the bridge
Meaning: Past problems that no longer matter
Example 1: Our old quarrel is water under the bridge.
Example 2: Forget it; that's water under the bridge.
Example 3: They said sorry, and now it's all water under the bridge.
84. Wear your heart on your sleeve
Meaning: To show your feelings openly
Example 1: She wears her heart on her sleeve.
Example 2: He can't hide his feelings; he wears his heart on his sleeve.
Example 3: Children often wear their hearts on their sleeves.
85. Wild goose chase
Meaning: A useless search
Example 1: Looking for the shop turned into a wild goose chase.
Example 2: The false clue sent us on a wild goose chase.
Example 3: Searching for that book was a wild goose chase.
86. Your cup of tea
Meaning: Something you like
Example 1: Cricket is not my cup of tea.
Example 2: Horror films are not her cup of tea.
Example 3: Is chess your cup of tea?
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PROVERBS
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87. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Meaning: It is better to keep what you have than risk it for something better
Example 1: Keep your small job for now; a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Example 2: I took the sure offer because a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Example 3: Don't give up your seat; a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
88. A friend in need is a friend indeed
Meaning: A true friend helps you when you are in trouble
Example 1: He lent me money when I was sick; a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Example 2: She came to help at midnight; a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Example 3: Remember, a friend in need is a friend indeed.
89. A rolling stone gathers no moss
Meaning: A person who keeps moving around never settles or builds anything lasting
Example 1: He changes jobs every month; a rolling stone gathers no moss.
Example 2: Stay in one school and focus; a rolling stone gathers no moss.
Example 3: She learned that a rolling stone gathers no moss.
90. A stitch in time saves nine
Meaning: Fixing a small problem now prevents a big one later
Example 1: Repair the roof today; a stitch in time saves nine.
Example 2: Do your homework daily; a stitch in time saves nine.
Example 3: He fixed the small crack at once, as a stitch in time saves nine.
91. Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: What you do matters more than what you say
Example 1: He promised a lot, but actions speak louder than words.
Example 2: Help people, because actions speak louder than words.
Example 3: She didn't say sorry; she showed it. Actions speak louder than words.
92. All that glitters is not gold
Meaning: Things that look attractive may not be valuable
Example 1: The shiny watch was fake; all that glitters is not gold.
Example 2: The offer looked great, but all that glitters is not gold.
Example 3: Be careful online, as all that glitters is not gold.
93. Beggars can't be choosers
Meaning: If you need help, you must accept what is given
Example 1: We had only plain rice, but beggars can't be choosers.
Example 2: I got an old bag, but beggars can't be choosers.
Example 3: Take the seat they offered; beggars can't be choosers.
94. Better late than never
Meaning: It is better to do something late than not at all
Example 1: You came late, but better late than never.
Example 2: He finally said thank you; better late than never.
Example 3: Start learning today; better late than never.
95. Birds of a feather flock together
Meaning: People with similar interests stay together
Example 1: The two cricket fans became friends; birds of a feather flock together.
Example 2: All the readers sit together; birds of a feather flock together.
Example 3: Birds of a feather flock together, so choose your friends well.
96. Don't count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning: Don't count on something before it happens
Example 1: Don't count your chickens before they hatch; the results aren't out yet.
Example 2: He spent the prize money before winning; don't count your chickens before they hatch.
Example 3: Wait for the offer letter and don't count your chickens before they hatch.
97. Don't put all your eggs in one basket
Meaning: Don't risk everything on one plan
Example 1: Save some money; don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Example 2: Apply to many colleges and don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Example 3: She invests in different shops and doesn't put all her eggs in one basket.
98. Easy come, easy go
Meaning: Things gained without effort are quickly lost
Example 1: He won money and lost it fast; easy come, easy go.
Example 2: I found a coin and lost it again; easy come, easy go.
Example 3: Easy come, easy go, so save what you earn.
99. Every cloud has a silver lining
Meaning: There is something good in every bad situation
Example 1: I failed, but I learned a lot; every cloud has a silver lining.
Example 2: The holiday was cancelled, yet we spent time with family. Every cloud has a silver lining.
Example 3: Cheer up; every cloud has a silver lining.
100. Honesty is the best policy
Meaning: Telling the truth is always the wisest choice
Example 1: I told the teacher the truth because honesty is the best policy.
Example 2: Honesty is the best policy in business.
Example 3: He returned the lost wallet, as honesty is the best policy.
101. Look before you leap
Meaning: Think carefully before you act
Example 1: Read the rules first; look before you leap.
Example 2: Look before you leap when signing any paper.
Example 3: He didn't look before he leaped and lost money.
102. Many hands make light work
Meaning: A task is easier when many people help
Example 1: We cleaned the hall in ten minutes; many hands make light work.
Example 2: Join us, because many hands make light work.
Example 3: The whole family helped, as many hands make light work.
103. Necessity is the mother of invention
Meaning: Need makes people create new solutions
Example 1: He built a small fan from waste parts; necessity is the mother of invention.
Example 2: Necessity is the mother of invention, so the farmers made a new pump.
Example 3: With no power, she made a lamp. Necessity is the mother of invention.
104. Out of sight, out of mind
Meaning: We forget what we don't see
Example 1: He moved away and we forgot him; out of sight, out of mind.
Example 2: Keep your books on the desk, since out of sight is out of mind.
Example 3: Out of sight, out of mind, as the old saying goes.
105. Practice makes perfect
Meaning: Doing something again and again makes you good at it
Example 1: Play the piano daily because practice makes perfect.
Example 2: My writing improved; practice makes perfect.
Example 3: Don't stop trying, as practice makes perfect.
106. Prevention is better than cure
Meaning: It is better to stop a problem than to fix it later
Example 1: Wash your hands often; prevention is better than cure.
Example 2: Check the car now; prevention is better than cure.
Example 3: Eat healthy food, because prevention is better than cure.
107. Rome wasn't built in a day
Meaning: Great things take time
Example 1: Be patient; Rome wasn't built in a day.
Example 2: Your English will improve slowly, as Rome wasn't built in a day.
Example 3: He's still learning, and Rome wasn't built in a day.
108. Slow and steady wins the race
Meaning: Working at a steady pace leads to success
Example 1: The tortoise won because slow and steady wins the race.
Example 2: Study a little every day; slow and steady wins the race.
Example 3: Don't rush, since slow and steady wins the race.
109. The early bird catches the worm
Meaning: People who start early get the best results
Example 1: Reach the shop early; the early bird catches the worm.
Example 2: She woke at five and finished first. The early bird catches the worm.
Example 3: Come early to get a good seat; the early bird catches the worm.
110. The pen is mightier than the sword
Meaning: Words are more powerful than weapons
Example 1: Writers can change the world, as the pen is mightier than the sword.
Example 2: Gandhi's writings show that the pen is mightier than the sword.
Example 3: Use your pen, not your fists; the pen is mightier than the sword.
111. Too many cooks spoil the broth
Meaning: Too many people working on a task can ruin it
Example 1: Everyone gave a different idea, and too many cooks spoil the broth.
Example 2: Let one person lead; too many cooks spoil the broth.
Example 3: The project failed because too many cooks spoiled the broth.
112. Two heads are better than one
Meaning: Two people can solve a problem better than one
Example 1: Let's solve this together; two heads are better than one.
Example 2: We found the answer fast because two heads are better than one.
Example 3: Ask a friend, since two heads are better than one.
113. When the cat's away, the mice will play
Meaning: People misbehave when the person in charge is gone
Example 1: The class was noisy when the teacher left; when the cat's away, the mice will play.
Example 2: The kids watched TV all day; when the cat's away, the mice will play.
Example 3: When the cat's away, the mice will play, so stay alert.
114. Where there's a will, there's a way
Meaning: If you really want something, you will find a way
Example 1: She had no money but studied hard; where there's a will, there's a way.
Example 2: He learned to swim at forty; where there's a will, there's a way.
Example 3: Keep trying, because where there's a will, there's a way.
115. You can't judge a book by its cover
Meaning: Do not judge by looks alone
Example 1: He looks quiet, but he's very funny. You can't judge a book by its cover.
Example 2: The old shop sold great food; you can't judge a book by its cover.
Example 3: Meet her first, because you can't judge a book by its cover.
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EVERYDAY PHRASES
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116. All of a sudden
Meaning: Suddenly
Example 1: All of a sudden, the lights went out.
Example 2: All of a sudden, it started to rain.
Example 3: He ran away all of a sudden.
117. As a matter of fact
Meaning: Actually; in truth
Example 1: As a matter of fact, I live next door.
Example 2: I like tea; as a matter of fact, I love it.
Example 3: As a matter of fact, we met yesterday.
118. As a result
Meaning: Because of this
Example 1: He studied hard; as a result, he passed.
Example 2: It rained all day; as a result, the match was cancelled.
Example 3: She slept late and, as a result, missed the bus.
119. As a rule
Meaning: Usually
Example 1: As a rule, I wake up at six.
Example 2: As a rule, shops close at nine.
Example 3: She walks to school as a rule.
120. As soon as possible
Meaning: Very quickly; without delay
Example 1: Please reply as soon as possible.
Example 2: Come home as soon as possible.
Example 3: We must finish this as soon as possible.
121. At least
Meaning: Not less than; or at the minimum
Example 1: Drink at least two litres of water.
Example 2: At least you tried your best.
Example 3: I need at least an hour to finish.
122. At once
Meaning: Immediately
Example 1: Come here at once!
Example 2: She stopped the car at once.
Example 3: Call the doctor at once.
123. By and large
Meaning: In general; mostly
Example 1: By and large, the students are well-behaved.
Example 2: By and large, the trip was fun.
Example 3: The weather here is, by and large, pleasant.
124. By chance
Meaning: Without planning
Example 1: I met her by chance at the market.
Example 2: He found the key by chance.
Example 3: We saw each other by chance.
125. By heart
Meaning: From memory
Example 1: I know this poem by heart.
Example 2: Learn the table of nine by heart.
Example 3: She knows all the songs by heart.
126. By mistake
Meaning: Not on purpose
Example 1: I took your bag by mistake.
Example 2: He sent the message by mistake.
Example 3: She wore the wrong shoes by mistake.
127. By the way
Meaning: Used to add something related
Example 1: By the way, have you seen my pen?
Example 2: By the way, the meeting starts at ten.
Example 3: By the way, thanks for your help.
128. For good
Meaning: Forever
Example 1: He left the town for good.
Example 2: She gave up sugar for good.
Example 3: They moved to Delhi for good.
129. For the time being
Meaning: For now; for a short time
Example 1: You can stay here for the time being.
Example 2: Use this room for the time being.
Example 3: For the time being, we have enough food.
130. In a hurry
Meaning: Moving or acting fast because of little time
Example 1: I'm in a hurry; I'll call you later.
Example 2: She left in a hurry.
Example 3: Don't be in a hurry to decide.
131. In advance
Meaning: Before the time
Example 1: Please book the tickets in advance.
Example 2: Thank you in advance for your help.
Example 3: He paid the fees in advance.
132. In charge of
Meaning: Responsible for
Example 1: She is in charge of the library.
Example 2: Who is in charge of this class?
Example 3: He is in charge of the school trip.
133. In fact
Meaning: Really; actually
Example 1: He is not lazy; in fact, he works very hard.
Example 2: In fact, I was there yesterday.
Example 3: It was easy; in fact, too easy.
134. In public
Meaning: Where other people can see or hear
Example 1: Don't shout in public.
Example 2: He rarely speaks in public.
Example 3: Littering in public is wrong.
135. Now and then
Meaning: Sometimes; not often
Example 1: I eat ice cream now and then.
Example 2: She visits us now and then.
Example 3: Now and then, we go to the river.
136. Of course
Meaning: Certainly; naturally
Example 1: Of course I'll help you.
Example 2: Of course, you can come.
Example 3: Are you coming? Of course!
137. On foot
Meaning: By walking
Example 1: I go to school on foot.
Example 2: They reached the village on foot.
Example 3: It takes ten minutes on foot.
138. On purpose
Meaning: Deliberately; not by accident
Example 1: He broke it on purpose.
Example 2: Did you hide my book on purpose?
Example 3: She was late on purpose.
139. On the other hand
Meaning: Used to show a different point of view
Example 1: The flat is small; on the other hand, it is cheap.
Example 2: I like cricket; on the other hand, my brother likes chess.
Example 3: It's cold; on the other hand, the sky is clear.
140. On time
Meaning: At the correct time; not late
Example 1: The train arrived on time.
Example 2: Please be on time for school.
Example 3: She finished the work on time.
141. Out of order
Meaning: Not working
Example 1: The lift is out of order.
Example 2: This phone is out of order.
Example 3: The tap is out of order.
142. Sooner or later
Meaning: Eventually
Example 1: Sooner or later, you will learn to swim.
Example 2: The truth will come out sooner or later.
Example 3: Sooner or later, he will call.
143. To tell the truth
Meaning: Honestly
Example 1: To tell the truth, I forgot your birthday.
Example 2: To tell the truth, I don't like fish.
Example 3: To tell the truth, I was scared.
1. A blessing in disguise
Meaning: Something that seems bad at first but turns out to be good
Example 1: Losing that job was a blessing in disguise because I found a better one.
Example 2: The rain was a blessing in disguise; it cooled the hot city.
Example 3: Missing the bus became a blessing in disguise when we met an old friend.
2. A dime a dozen
Meaning: Very common and easy to find
Example 1: Cheap plastic pens are a dime a dozen in this market.
Example 2: Good ideas are a dime a dozen; hard work is rare.
Example 3: Mobile phone shops are a dime a dozen in our town.
3. A hot potato
Meaning: A topic that is difficult or risky to discuss
Example 1: Politics is a hot potato at family dinners.
Example 2: The school fee issue became a hot potato for the principal.
Example 3: Nobody wanted to touch that hot potato of a problem.
4. A piece of cake
Meaning: Something very easy to do
Example 1: The maths test was a piece of cake.
Example 2: Making tea is a piece of cake for me.
Example 3: Don't worry, fixing this tap is a piece of cake.
5. A red herring
Meaning: Something that takes attention away from the real issue
Example 1: The missing key turned out to be a red herring in the story.
Example 2: His long speech was just a red herring to avoid the question.
Example 3: Do not follow that clue; it is a red herring.
6. A storm in a teacup
Meaning: A big fuss about something small
Example 1: The argument over the seat was a storm in a teacup.
Example 2: Their quarrel was just a storm in a teacup and ended in minutes.
Example 3: Don't worry about the rumour; it's a storm in a teacup.
7. Add fuel to the fire
Meaning: To make a bad situation worse
Example 1: Shouting at him will only add fuel to the fire.
Example 2: Her rude reply added fuel to the fire.
Example 3: Don't add fuel to the fire by sharing that gossip.
8. Apple of my eye
Meaning: A person who is loved very much
Example 1: Her youngest son is the apple of her eye.
Example 2: The little girl is the apple of her grandfather's eye.
Example 3: He is the apple of his teacher's eye.
9. At the drop of a hat
Meaning: Immediately, without any delay
Example 1: She will help you at the drop of a hat.
Example 2: He is ready to travel at the drop of a hat.
Example 3: Some people get angry at the drop of a hat.
10. Back to square one
Meaning: Back at the beginning after a failure
Example 1: The plan failed, so we are back to square one.
Example 2: My computer crashed and I was back to square one.
Example 3: After the new rule, the team went back to square one.
11. Barking up the wrong tree
Meaning: Making a wrong guess or blaming the wrong person
Example 1: If you think I broke the window, you are barking up the wrong tree.
Example 2: The police were barking up the wrong tree for weeks.
Example 3: You're barking up the wrong tree if you want money from me.
12. Beat around the bush
Meaning: To avoid saying the main point directly
Example 1: Stop beating around the bush and tell me the truth.
Example 2: He beat around the bush before asking for a loan.
Example 3: Please don't beat around the bush; just answer yes or no.
13. Bite off more than you can chew
Meaning: To take on more work than you can handle
Example 1: I bit off more than I could chew by joining three clubs.
Example 2: Don't bite off more than you can chew this week.
Example 3: She realised she had bitten off more than she could chew.
14. Bite the bullet
Meaning: To do something difficult or unpleasant bravely
Example 1: I had to bite the bullet and visit the dentist.
Example 2: He bit the bullet and told his boss the bad news.
Example 3: Just bite the bullet and finish the project tonight.
15. Break a leg
Meaning: Good luck (said before a performance)
Example 1: Break a leg in your school play tonight!
Example 2: She told me to break a leg before my song.
Example 3: Everyone shouted 'Break a leg!' to the dancers.
16. Break the ice
Meaning: To start a friendly talk with new people
Example 1: A joke helped him break the ice at the party.
Example 2: The teacher played a game to break the ice on the first day.
Example 3: She smiled to break the ice with her new neighbour.
17. Bring home the bacon
Meaning: To earn money for the family
Example 1: My father brings home the bacon for our family.
Example 2: She works two jobs to bring home the bacon.
Example 3: Who brings home the bacon in your house?
18. Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To work or study very late at night
Example 1: I burned the midnight oil before my exams.
Example 2: The team burned the midnight oil to finish the project.
Example 3: She is burning the midnight oil to write her book.
19. Butterflies in my stomach
Meaning: A nervous feeling before something important
Example 1: I had butterflies in my stomach before the speech.
Example 2: He gets butterflies in his stomach on the first day of school.
Example 3: She felt butterflies in her stomach at the interview.
20. By the skin of your teeth
Meaning: Only just; by a very small margin
Example 1: We caught the train by the skin of our teeth.
Example 2: He passed the exam by the skin of his teeth.
Example 3: The goalkeeper saved the ball by the skin of his teeth.
21. Call it a day
Meaning: To stop working for now
Example 1: We are tired, so let's call it a day.
Example 2: After ten hours of work, they called it a day.
Example 3: It's getting dark, so we should call it a day.
22. Cold feet
Meaning: Sudden fear before doing something important
Example 1: He got cold feet just before the wedding.
Example 2: Don't get cold feet now; you have practised enough.
Example 3: She had cold feet about jumping into the pool.
23. Cost an arm and a leg
Meaning: To be very expensive
Example 1: That new phone costs an arm and a leg.
Example 2: Doctors' bills can cost an arm and a leg.
Example 3: A big house in the city costs an arm and a leg.
24. Cross that bridge when you come to it
Meaning: Deal with a problem only when it actually happens
Example 1: We don't know if it will rain; we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Example 2: Don't worry about the results yet; cross that bridge when you come to it.
Example 3: If the bus is late, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.
25. Cry over spilled milk
Meaning: To be upset about something that cannot be changed
Example 1: It's done, so there's no use crying over spilled milk.
Example 2: Don't cry over spilled milk; just study harder next time.
Example 3: He kept crying over spilled milk after losing the match.
26. Cut corners
Meaning: To do something in a cheap or careless way to save time or money
Example 1: The builder cut corners and the wall cracked.
Example 2: Never cut corners when you cook for guests.
Example 3: The company cut corners on safety.
27. Cut to the chase
Meaning: To get to the main point quickly
Example 1: Let's cut to the chase: can you help me or not?
Example 2: She cut to the chase and asked for the price.
Example 3: I'm busy, so please cut to the chase.
28. Face the music
Meaning: To accept the punishment or result of your actions
Example 1: He broke the window and had to face the music.
Example 2: It's time to face the music and tell Dad about the marks.
Example 3: She faced the music and apologised.
29. Fall on deaf ears
Meaning: To be ignored
Example 1: My advice fell on deaf ears.
Example 2: The villagers' request fell on deaf ears.
Example 3: His warnings fell on deaf ears.
30. Get out of hand
Meaning: To become difficult to control
Example 1: The party got out of hand after midnight.
Example 2: The class got out of hand when the teacher left.
Example 3: Spending can easily get out of hand.
31. Give someone the cold shoulder
Meaning: To ignore someone on purpose
Example 1: She gave me the cold shoulder after our fight.
Example 2: Why is he giving you the cold shoulder?
Example 3: The new student was given the cold shoulder at first.
32. Go back to the drawing board
Meaning: To start planning again after a failure
Example 1: The design failed, so we went back to the drawing board.
Example 2: If this idea doesn't work, it's back to the drawing board.
Example 3: The engineers had to go back to the drawing board.
33. Go the extra mile
Meaning: To make more effort than expected
Example 1: She always goes the extra mile for her students.
Example 2: The waiter went the extra mile to make us happy.
Example 3: If you go the extra mile, you will succeed.
34. Green with envy
Meaning: Very jealous
Example 1: I was green with envy when I saw her new bicycle.
Example 2: He was green with envy at his friend's trophy.
Example 3: She turned green with envy over their big house.
35. Head over heels
Meaning: Completely in love
Example 1: He fell head over heels for her.
Example 2: They are head over heels in love.
Example 3: I'm head over heels about this new puppy.
36. Hit the books
Meaning: To study hard
Example 1: I need to hit the books for the science test.
Example 2: Hit the books tonight; the exam is tomorrow.
Example 3: She hit the books after dinner.
37. Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: To say or do exactly the right thing
Example 1: You hit the nail on the head with that answer.
Example 2: His comment hit the nail on the head.
Example 3: She hit the nail on the head about our problem.
38. Hit the sack
Meaning: To go to bed
Example 1: I'm tired, so I'm going to hit the sack.
Example 2: He hit the sack right after dinner.
Example 3: Let's hit the sack early tonight.
39. Hold your horses
Meaning: Wait; be patient
Example 1: Hold your horses! The food isn't ready yet.
Example 2: Hold your horses, we'll leave in five minutes.
Example 3: She told the kids to hold their horses.
40. In a nutshell
Meaning: In a few words; briefly
Example 1: In a nutshell, we lost the game.
Example 2: Tell me the story in a nutshell.
Example 3: In a nutshell, the plan is to leave at six.
41. In hot water
Meaning: In trouble
Example 1: He was in hot water for coming late.
Example 2: She got into hot water for lying.
Example 3: You'll be in hot water if you forget your homework.
42. In the same boat
Meaning: In the same difficult situation as others
Example 1: We are all in the same boat; nobody finished the work.
Example 2: Don't worry, I'm in the same boat as you.
Example 3: Many farmers are in the same boat this year.
43. Jump the gun
Meaning: To start something too early
Example 1: Don't jump the gun; the results are not out yet.
Example 2: He jumped the gun and shared the news too soon.
Example 3: The runner jumped the gun at the start.
44. Keep your chin up
Meaning: Stay cheerful in a hard time
Example 1: Keep your chin up; things will get better.
Example 2: She kept her chin up after losing the race.
Example 3: Just keep your chin up and try again.
45. Kill two birds with one stone
Meaning: To solve two problems with one action
Example 1: I killed two birds with one stone by shopping on my way home.
Example 2: Walking to school kills two birds with one stone: it saves money and keeps me fit.
Example 3: Let's kill two birds with one stone and visit both uncles today.
46. Leave no stone unturned
Meaning: To try every possible way
Example 1: The police left no stone unturned in the search.
Example 2: She left no stone unturned to find her lost ring.
Example 3: We will leave no stone unturned to win.
47. Lend a hand
Meaning: To help
Example 1: Can you lend a hand with these bags?
Example 2: He always lends a hand in the kitchen.
Example 3: The villagers lent a hand to build the bridge.
48. Let sleeping dogs lie
Meaning: Don't disturb a situation that is calm
Example 1: The fight is over, so let sleeping dogs lie.
Example 2: I didn't ask about the old problem; I let sleeping dogs lie.
Example 3: It's better to let sleeping dogs lie.
49. Let the cat out of the bag
Meaning: To tell a secret by mistake
Example 1: He let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.
Example 2: Don't let the cat out of the bag before Sunday.
Example 3: Who let the cat out of the bag?
50. Make a long story short
Meaning: To tell something quickly
Example 1: To make a long story short, we missed the flight.
Example 2: Make a long story short, did you get the job?
Example 3: To make a long story short, he said yes.
51. Miss the boat
Meaning: To lose a chance
Example 1: If you wait any longer, you'll miss the boat.
Example 2: He missed the boat by not applying on time.
Example 3: Don't miss the boat on this great offer.
52. Neck and neck
Meaning: Very close in a race or contest
Example 1: The two runners were neck and neck at the end.
Example 2: The teams are neck and neck in the points table.
Example 3: They ran neck and neck to the finish line.
53. On cloud nine
Meaning: Extremely happy
Example 1: She was on cloud nine after winning the prize.
Example 2: He's been on cloud nine since the good news.
Example 3: The students were on cloud nine on the last day of school.
54. On the fence
Meaning: Unable to decide
Example 1: I'm on the fence about which college to choose.
Example 2: She is on the fence about joining the club.
Example 3: Stop sitting on the fence and pick one.
55. Once in a blue moon
Meaning: Very rarely
Example 1: We eat out once in a blue moon.
Example 2: He visits his village once in a blue moon.
Example 3: It snows here once in a blue moon.
56. Out of the blue
Meaning: Suddenly and unexpectedly
Example 1: A letter from my old friend came out of the blue.
Example 2: He called me out of the blue.
Example 3: Out of the blue, it started to pour.
57. Over the moon
Meaning: Very happy
Example 1: She was over the moon about her results.
Example 2: We are over the moon about the new baby.
Example 3: He was over the moon when his team won.
58. Pay through the nose
Meaning: To pay far too much
Example 1: We paid through the nose for those concert tickets.
Example 2: Tourists often pay through the nose here.
Example 3: I don't want to pay through the nose for a small room.
59. Play it by ear
Meaning: To decide step by step without a fixed plan
Example 1: We have no plan, so let's play it by ear.
Example 2: I'll play it by ear and see how I feel tomorrow.
Example 3: The coach played it by ear during the match.
60. Pull someone's leg
Meaning: To joke with someone in a playful way
Example 1: Are you serious or are you pulling my leg?
Example 2: He was only pulling your leg.
Example 3: She loves to pull her brother's leg.
61. Raining cats and dogs
Meaning: Raining very heavily
Example 1: It was raining cats and dogs, so we stayed at home.
Example 2: I got wet because it was raining cats and dogs.
Example 3: Take an umbrella; it's raining cats and dogs.
62. Read between the lines
Meaning: To understand a hidden meaning
Example 1: If you read between the lines, he is unhappy.
Example 2: Her letter was polite, but you must read between the lines.
Example 3: Learn to read between the lines in news stories.
63. Ring a bell
Meaning: To sound familiar
Example 1: That name rings a bell, but I can't remember him.
Example 2: Does the word 'Kaziranga' ring a bell?
Example 3: The address rings a bell.
64. Rock the boat
Meaning: To cause trouble in a calm situation
Example 1: Please don't rock the boat just before the exam.
Example 2: She didn't want to rock the boat at work.
Example 3: He rocked the boat by changing the rules.
65. Rule of thumb
Meaning: A simple, practical guide
Example 1: As a rule of thumb, drink eight glasses of water a day.
Example 2: My rule of thumb is to sleep before midnight.
Example 3: Use this as a rule of thumb, not a strict law.
66. See eye to eye
Meaning: To agree with someone
Example 1: The two brothers don't see eye to eye on anything.
Example 2: We see eye to eye about the plan.
Example 3: Teachers and parents must see eye to eye.
67. Sleep on it
Meaning: To think about something overnight before deciding
Example 1: I'll sleep on it and tell you tomorrow.
Example 2: Let me sleep on it before I buy the phone.
Example 3: Why not sleep on it and decide in the morning?
68. Spick and span
Meaning: Very clean and neat
Example 1: Mother kept the house spick and span.
Example 2: The classroom looked spick and span on Monday.
Example 3: He keeps his shoes spick and span.
69. Spill the beans
Meaning: To reveal a secret
Example 1: Come on, spill the beans! Who won?
Example 2: Someone spilled the beans about the gift.
Example 3: He spilled the beans about our trip.
70. Take it with a pinch of salt
Meaning: Do not believe it completely
Example 1: Take his stories with a pinch of salt.
Example 2: Take news from social media with a pinch of salt.
Example 3: She took the advertisement with a pinch of salt.
71. Take the bull by the horns
Meaning: To face a problem bravely
Example 1: He took the bull by the horns and fixed the issue.
Example 2: It's time to take the bull by the horns and speak up.
Example 3: She took the bull by the horns and started her own shop.
72. The ball is in your court
Meaning: It is your turn to act or decide
Example 1: I've made my offer; now the ball is in your court.
Example 2: The ball is in your court, so choose wisely.
Example 3: We did our part; the ball is in their court.
73. The elephant in the room
Meaning: A big problem that everyone avoids talking about
Example 1: His poor marks were the elephant in the room.
Example 2: Nobody mentioned the elephant in the room at dinner.
Example 3: Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the budget.
74. The last straw
Meaning: The final problem that makes you lose patience
Example 1: Being late again was the last straw for his boss.
Example 2: When he broke my pen, it was the last straw.
Example 3: That rude remark was the last straw.
75. The tip of the iceberg
Meaning: A small visible part of a much bigger problem
Example 1: The few complaints were only the tip of the iceberg.
Example 2: This mistake is just the tip of the iceberg.
Example 3: The litter on the road is the tip of the iceberg.
76. Through thick and thin
Meaning: In good times and bad times
Example 1: True friends stay together through thick and thin.
Example 2: She stood by him through thick and thin.
Example 3: Our dog stayed with us through thick and thin.
77. Throw caution to the wind
Meaning: To take a big risk without worrying
Example 1: He threw caution to the wind and started a business.
Example 2: She threw caution to the wind and jumped in.
Example 3: Don't throw caution to the wind with your health.
78. Throw in the towel
Meaning: To give up
Example 1: After three failures, he threw in the towel.
Example 2: Don't throw in the towel; try once more.
Example 3: The boxer threw in the towel in round five.
79. Time flies
Meaning: Time passes very quickly
Example 1: Time flies when you are having fun.
Example 2: It's already June; how time flies!
Example 3: Time flies, so use it well.
80. Turn a blind eye
Meaning: To pretend not to see something wrong
Example 1: The guard turned a blind eye to the noise.
Example 2: Don't turn a blind eye to bullying.
Example 3: The teacher turned a blind eye to small mistakes.
81. Under the weather
Meaning: Feeling a little sick
Example 1: I'm feeling under the weather today.
Example 2: She stayed home because she was under the weather.
Example 3: He looks a bit under the weather.
82. Up in the air
Meaning: Not yet decided
Example 1: Our trip plans are still up in the air.
Example 2: The match date is up in the air because of rain.
Example 3: My job future is up in the air.
83. Water under the bridge
Meaning: Past problems that no longer matter
Example 1: Our old quarrel is water under the bridge.
Example 2: Forget it; that's water under the bridge.
Example 3: They said sorry, and now it's all water under the bridge.
84. Wear your heart on your sleeve
Meaning: To show your feelings openly
Example 1: She wears her heart on her sleeve.
Example 2: He can't hide his feelings; he wears his heart on his sleeve.
Example 3: Children often wear their hearts on their sleeves.
85. Wild goose chase
Meaning: A useless search
Example 1: Looking for the shop turned into a wild goose chase.
Example 2: The false clue sent us on a wild goose chase.
Example 3: Searching for that book was a wild goose chase.
86. Your cup of tea
Meaning: Something you like
Example 1: Cricket is not my cup of tea.
Example 2: Horror films are not her cup of tea.
Example 3: Is chess your cup of tea?
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PROVERBS
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87. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Meaning: It is better to keep what you have than risk it for something better
Example 1: Keep your small job for now; a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Example 2: I took the sure offer because a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
Example 3: Don't give up your seat; a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
88. A friend in need is a friend indeed
Meaning: A true friend helps you when you are in trouble
Example 1: He lent me money when I was sick; a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Example 2: She came to help at midnight; a friend in need is a friend indeed.
Example 3: Remember, a friend in need is a friend indeed.
89. A rolling stone gathers no moss
Meaning: A person who keeps moving around never settles or builds anything lasting
Example 1: He changes jobs every month; a rolling stone gathers no moss.
Example 2: Stay in one school and focus; a rolling stone gathers no moss.
Example 3: She learned that a rolling stone gathers no moss.
90. A stitch in time saves nine
Meaning: Fixing a small problem now prevents a big one later
Example 1: Repair the roof today; a stitch in time saves nine.
Example 2: Do your homework daily; a stitch in time saves nine.
Example 3: He fixed the small crack at once, as a stitch in time saves nine.
91. Actions speak louder than words
Meaning: What you do matters more than what you say
Example 1: He promised a lot, but actions speak louder than words.
Example 2: Help people, because actions speak louder than words.
Example 3: She didn't say sorry; she showed it. Actions speak louder than words.
92. All that glitters is not gold
Meaning: Things that look attractive may not be valuable
Example 1: The shiny watch was fake; all that glitters is not gold.
Example 2: The offer looked great, but all that glitters is not gold.
Example 3: Be careful online, as all that glitters is not gold.
93. Beggars can't be choosers
Meaning: If you need help, you must accept what is given
Example 1: We had only plain rice, but beggars can't be choosers.
Example 2: I got an old bag, but beggars can't be choosers.
Example 3: Take the seat they offered; beggars can't be choosers.
94. Better late than never
Meaning: It is better to do something late than not at all
Example 1: You came late, but better late than never.
Example 2: He finally said thank you; better late than never.
Example 3: Start learning today; better late than never.
95. Birds of a feather flock together
Meaning: People with similar interests stay together
Example 1: The two cricket fans became friends; birds of a feather flock together.
Example 2: All the readers sit together; birds of a feather flock together.
Example 3: Birds of a feather flock together, so choose your friends well.
96. Don't count your chickens before they hatch
Meaning: Don't count on something before it happens
Example 1: Don't count your chickens before they hatch; the results aren't out yet.
Example 2: He spent the prize money before winning; don't count your chickens before they hatch.
Example 3: Wait for the offer letter and don't count your chickens before they hatch.
97. Don't put all your eggs in one basket
Meaning: Don't risk everything on one plan
Example 1: Save some money; don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Example 2: Apply to many colleges and don't put all your eggs in one basket.
Example 3: She invests in different shops and doesn't put all her eggs in one basket.
98. Easy come, easy go
Meaning: Things gained without effort are quickly lost
Example 1: He won money and lost it fast; easy come, easy go.
Example 2: I found a coin and lost it again; easy come, easy go.
Example 3: Easy come, easy go, so save what you earn.
99. Every cloud has a silver lining
Meaning: There is something good in every bad situation
Example 1: I failed, but I learned a lot; every cloud has a silver lining.
Example 2: The holiday was cancelled, yet we spent time with family. Every cloud has a silver lining.
Example 3: Cheer up; every cloud has a silver lining.
100. Honesty is the best policy
Meaning: Telling the truth is always the wisest choice
Example 1: I told the teacher the truth because honesty is the best policy.
Example 2: Honesty is the best policy in business.
Example 3: He returned the lost wallet, as honesty is the best policy.
101. Look before you leap
Meaning: Think carefully before you act
Example 1: Read the rules first; look before you leap.
Example 2: Look before you leap when signing any paper.
Example 3: He didn't look before he leaped and lost money.
102. Many hands make light work
Meaning: A task is easier when many people help
Example 1: We cleaned the hall in ten minutes; many hands make light work.
Example 2: Join us, because many hands make light work.
Example 3: The whole family helped, as many hands make light work.
103. Necessity is the mother of invention
Meaning: Need makes people create new solutions
Example 1: He built a small fan from waste parts; necessity is the mother of invention.
Example 2: Necessity is the mother of invention, so the farmers made a new pump.
Example 3: With no power, she made a lamp. Necessity is the mother of invention.
104. Out of sight, out of mind
Meaning: We forget what we don't see
Example 1: He moved away and we forgot him; out of sight, out of mind.
Example 2: Keep your books on the desk, since out of sight is out of mind.
Example 3: Out of sight, out of mind, as the old saying goes.
105. Practice makes perfect
Meaning: Doing something again and again makes you good at it
Example 1: Play the piano daily because practice makes perfect.
Example 2: My writing improved; practice makes perfect.
Example 3: Don't stop trying, as practice makes perfect.
106. Prevention is better than cure
Meaning: It is better to stop a problem than to fix it later
Example 1: Wash your hands often; prevention is better than cure.
Example 2: Check the car now; prevention is better than cure.
Example 3: Eat healthy food, because prevention is better than cure.
107. Rome wasn't built in a day
Meaning: Great things take time
Example 1: Be patient; Rome wasn't built in a day.
Example 2: Your English will improve slowly, as Rome wasn't built in a day.
Example 3: He's still learning, and Rome wasn't built in a day.
108. Slow and steady wins the race
Meaning: Working at a steady pace leads to success
Example 1: The tortoise won because slow and steady wins the race.
Example 2: Study a little every day; slow and steady wins the race.
Example 3: Don't rush, since slow and steady wins the race.
109. The early bird catches the worm
Meaning: People who start early get the best results
Example 1: Reach the shop early; the early bird catches the worm.
Example 2: She woke at five and finished first. The early bird catches the worm.
Example 3: Come early to get a good seat; the early bird catches the worm.
110. The pen is mightier than the sword
Meaning: Words are more powerful than weapons
Example 1: Writers can change the world, as the pen is mightier than the sword.
Example 2: Gandhi's writings show that the pen is mightier than the sword.
Example 3: Use your pen, not your fists; the pen is mightier than the sword.
111. Too many cooks spoil the broth
Meaning: Too many people working on a task can ruin it
Example 1: Everyone gave a different idea, and too many cooks spoil the broth.
Example 2: Let one person lead; too many cooks spoil the broth.
Example 3: The project failed because too many cooks spoiled the broth.
112. Two heads are better than one
Meaning: Two people can solve a problem better than one
Example 1: Let's solve this together; two heads are better than one.
Example 2: We found the answer fast because two heads are better than one.
Example 3: Ask a friend, since two heads are better than one.
113. When the cat's away, the mice will play
Meaning: People misbehave when the person in charge is gone
Example 1: The class was noisy when the teacher left; when the cat's away, the mice will play.
Example 2: The kids watched TV all day; when the cat's away, the mice will play.
Example 3: When the cat's away, the mice will play, so stay alert.
114. Where there's a will, there's a way
Meaning: If you really want something, you will find a way
Example 1: She had no money but studied hard; where there's a will, there's a way.
Example 2: He learned to swim at forty; where there's a will, there's a way.
Example 3: Keep trying, because where there's a will, there's a way.
115. You can't judge a book by its cover
Meaning: Do not judge by looks alone
Example 1: He looks quiet, but he's very funny. You can't judge a book by its cover.
Example 2: The old shop sold great food; you can't judge a book by its cover.
Example 3: Meet her first, because you can't judge a book by its cover.
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EVERYDAY PHRASES
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116. All of a sudden
Meaning: Suddenly
Example 1: All of a sudden, the lights went out.
Example 2: All of a sudden, it started to rain.
Example 3: He ran away all of a sudden.
117. As a matter of fact
Meaning: Actually; in truth
Example 1: As a matter of fact, I live next door.
Example 2: I like tea; as a matter of fact, I love it.
Example 3: As a matter of fact, we met yesterday.
118. As a result
Meaning: Because of this
Example 1: He studied hard; as a result, he passed.
Example 2: It rained all day; as a result, the match was cancelled.
Example 3: She slept late and, as a result, missed the bus.
119. As a rule
Meaning: Usually
Example 1: As a rule, I wake up at six.
Example 2: As a rule, shops close at nine.
Example 3: She walks to school as a rule.
120. As soon as possible
Meaning: Very quickly; without delay
Example 1: Please reply as soon as possible.
Example 2: Come home as soon as possible.
Example 3: We must finish this as soon as possible.
121. At least
Meaning: Not less than; or at the minimum
Example 1: Drink at least two litres of water.
Example 2: At least you tried your best.
Example 3: I need at least an hour to finish.
122. At once
Meaning: Immediately
Example 1: Come here at once!
Example 2: She stopped the car at once.
Example 3: Call the doctor at once.
123. By and large
Meaning: In general; mostly
Example 1: By and large, the students are well-behaved.
Example 2: By and large, the trip was fun.
Example 3: The weather here is, by and large, pleasant.
124. By chance
Meaning: Without planning
Example 1: I met her by chance at the market.
Example 2: He found the key by chance.
Example 3: We saw each other by chance.
125. By heart
Meaning: From memory
Example 1: I know this poem by heart.
Example 2: Learn the table of nine by heart.
Example 3: She knows all the songs by heart.
126. By mistake
Meaning: Not on purpose
Example 1: I took your bag by mistake.
Example 2: He sent the message by mistake.
Example 3: She wore the wrong shoes by mistake.
127. By the way
Meaning: Used to add something related
Example 1: By the way, have you seen my pen?
Example 2: By the way, the meeting starts at ten.
Example 3: By the way, thanks for your help.
128. For good
Meaning: Forever
Example 1: He left the town for good.
Example 2: She gave up sugar for good.
Example 3: They moved to Delhi for good.
129. For the time being
Meaning: For now; for a short time
Example 1: You can stay here for the time being.
Example 2: Use this room for the time being.
Example 3: For the time being, we have enough food.
130. In a hurry
Meaning: Moving or acting fast because of little time
Example 1: I'm in a hurry; I'll call you later.
Example 2: She left in a hurry.
Example 3: Don't be in a hurry to decide.
131. In advance
Meaning: Before the time
Example 1: Please book the tickets in advance.
Example 2: Thank you in advance for your help.
Example 3: He paid the fees in advance.
132. In charge of
Meaning: Responsible for
Example 1: She is in charge of the library.
Example 2: Who is in charge of this class?
Example 3: He is in charge of the school trip.
133. In fact
Meaning: Really; actually
Example 1: He is not lazy; in fact, he works very hard.
Example 2: In fact, I was there yesterday.
Example 3: It was easy; in fact, too easy.
134. In public
Meaning: Where other people can see or hear
Example 1: Don't shout in public.
Example 2: He rarely speaks in public.
Example 3: Littering in public is wrong.
135. Now and then
Meaning: Sometimes; not often
Example 1: I eat ice cream now and then.
Example 2: She visits us now and then.
Example 3: Now and then, we go to the river.
136. Of course
Meaning: Certainly; naturally
Example 1: Of course I'll help you.
Example 2: Of course, you can come.
Example 3: Are you coming? Of course!
137. On foot
Meaning: By walking
Example 1: I go to school on foot.
Example 2: They reached the village on foot.
Example 3: It takes ten minutes on foot.
138. On purpose
Meaning: Deliberately; not by accident
Example 1: He broke it on purpose.
Example 2: Did you hide my book on purpose?
Example 3: She was late on purpose.
139. On the other hand
Meaning: Used to show a different point of view
Example 1: The flat is small; on the other hand, it is cheap.
Example 2: I like cricket; on the other hand, my brother likes chess.
Example 3: It's cold; on the other hand, the sky is clear.
140. On time
Meaning: At the correct time; not late
Example 1: The train arrived on time.
Example 2: Please be on time for school.
Example 3: She finished the work on time.
141. Out of order
Meaning: Not working
Example 1: The lift is out of order.
Example 2: This phone is out of order.
Example 3: The tap is out of order.
142. Sooner or later
Meaning: Eventually
Example 1: Sooner or later, you will learn to swim.
Example 2: The truth will come out sooner or later.
Example 3: Sooner or later, he will call.
143. To tell the truth
Meaning: Honestly
Example 1: To tell the truth, I forgot your birthday.
Example 2: To tell the truth, I don't like fish.
Example 3: To tell the truth, I was scared.
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