Top 10 English Idioms You Should Know to Sound Like a Native Speaker

Essential English Idioms with Meanings and Examples for Everyday Conversations

Idioms are colorful, catchy phrases that add flavor to the English language. They often can’t be understood by the literal meanings of the words — but mastering them helps you sound more fluent and natural.

Here are the top 10 idioms every learner should know:

1. Break the ice – To initiate conversation in a social setting.
   “He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.”
2. Hit the sack – To go to bed.
   “I’m exhausted. Time to hit the sack.”
3. Piece of cake – Something very easy.
   “This grammar quiz was a piece of cake!”
4. Under the weather – Feeling sick or unwell.
   “I’m feeling a bit under the weather today.”
5. Spill the beans – To reveal a secret.
   “Don’t spill the beans about the surprise party!”
6. Cost an arm and a leg – Very expensive.
   “That designer bag costs an arm and a leg.”
7. Once in a blue moon – Very rarely.
   “He visits his hometown once in a blue moon.”
8. Burn the midnight oil – To work late at night.
   “She’s burning the midnight oil for her exam.”
9. Let the cat out of the bag – Reveal a secret by accident.
   “He let the cat out of the bag about the promotion.”
10. Bite the bullet – To face something difficult bravely.
    “I hate going to the dentist, but I’ll bite the bullet.”

📚 Also read: Mastering English Phrasal Verbs: Your Ultimate Guide

🔍 For more idioms and examples, check theidioms.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why should I learn English idioms?

Idioms make your English sound more natural and expressive. They’re widely used in spoken and informal contexts.

Are idioms used in formal English?

Some idioms are too casual for formal writing, but they are very common in spoken English and casual writing.

🕒 Updated: July 15, 2025