Here are some popular English idioms with their meanings and examples:
1. Break the Ice
- Meaning: To make a conversation comfortable and friendly, especially after a period of silence or awkwardness.
- Example: At the new job, Sarah was nervous, but she managed to break the ice by sharing a joke with her colleague.
2. Hit the Nail on the Head
- Meaning: To describe exactly what is causing a problem or to say something that is exactly right.
- Example: "The problem with the car is the engine," said John, hitting the nail on the head.
3. Let the Cat Out of the Bag
- Meaning: To reveal a secret or confidential information by accident or unintentionally.
- Example: "I can't believe you let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party!"
4. A Piece of Cake
- Meaning: To describe something that is very easy to do.
- Example: "The math test was a piece of cake for me."
5. Spill the Beans
- Meaning: To reveal a secret or something that should remain unknown.
- Example: "Don't spill the beans about who is going to win the contest!"
For more idioms and their meanings, check out our idioms section.
Here's a fun fact: Did you know that idioms are like little stories that have become part of our everyday language? 📚
And here's a picture to illustrate the concept of 'breaking the ice':