Hello everyone!
Today, I’m going to give you some common idioms about parts of the body. In case you don’t know what an idiom is, it’s a phrase with a meaning that isn't always obvious and can't always be translated directly into another language.
I'm all ears
I'm listening to you or I'm ready and eager to listen to you.
Example: The children were all ears as the teacher told them the story.
It's a no-brainer
It's an easy decision to make which doesn't need much thought.
Example: They offered me a much better job with more money so of course I accepted it. It was a no-brainer.
Keep your eyes peeled
This means to look or watch carefully for something or pay attention.
For example: This is a dangerous road so keep your eyes peeled and drive carefully.
I've got two left feet
I can't dance.
Example: I can't get my boyfriend to dance with me at parties. He says he has two left feet and won't even try.
I'm getting cold feet
I'm getting nervous. It seemed like a good idea at first but now I'm not sure I want to do it.
Example: He's supposed to be getting married next week but I think he's getting cold feet about it!
Itchy feet
If somebody has itchy feet, it means they are restless and they want to travel or try something new.
Example: After ten years at the same company, she got itchy feet and started looking for a new job.
My head's killing me
My head is really hurting.
We can use this idiom for other body parts too.
Example: I can't wait to take these shoes off. My feet are killing me.
It cost an arm and a leg
It was extremely expensive.
Example: My car broke down last week and it cost an arm and a leg to get it fixed!
Play it by ear
Improvise or be spontaneous.
Example: We haven't planned out our whole holiday because we don't know what the weather ill be like. We're just going to play it by ear.
Put your foot in your mouth (put your foot in it)
Say something stupid.
Example: I really put my foot in my mouth when I asked her how her boyfriend was. I didn't know they had just broken up!
You might remember that I posted an article recently about whether it’s necessary to learn idioms or not. You can read it here:
Although idioms are not a high priority for everyone, depending on your level and reasons for learning English, they are fun and students usually love learning and using them!
I hope you enjoyed today’s lesson!
Katie
Thanks for reading! I’m Katie Salter and I teach British English online. I help adult learners to speak better English through conversation practice and grammar lessons.
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