When we say things like “feeling blue” or “seeing red”, it doesn’t mean we’re actually seeing colors. These are examples of “idioms with colors”. They’re special phrases that don’t mean what they say literally. Instead, they help us express feelings and ideas in a more interesting way. This article will teach you about some of the most common idioms with colors. You’ll learn what they mean and how to use them in everyday conversations. By knowing these idioms, you’ll be able to understand English speakers better and express yourself more creatively. So, let’s explore the colorful world of idioms together!
1. The black sheep: This idiom refers to someone who is different or doesn’t fit in with the rest of their family or group. It’s often used to describe a person who has a bad reputation or has made poor choices.
Example: John is considered the black sheep of the family because he dropped out of school and started a rock band, while his siblings are all successful professionals.
2. Blue in the face: This expression is used when someone is trying to convince someone else of something, but the other person refuses to listen or change their mind. It suggests that the person has been talking for so long that they have turned blue from lack of oxygen.
Example: I tried to convince my mom to let me go to the concert, but I talked until I was blue in the face, and she still said no.
3. Red-letter day: A red-letter day is a special, memorable, or important day. It originates from the practice of marking significant dates in red on calendars.
Example: My graduation was a red-letter day for my family, as I was the first person in our family to earn a college degree.
4. White as a ghost/sheet: This idiom is used to describe someone who looks very pale or frightened.
Example: After watching the scary movie, Sarah was as white as a ghost.
5. With flying colors: This expression means to pass or succeed at something easily and with an excellent result.
Example: Jane studied hard for her final exams and passed with flying colors.
[box style=”2″]
An interesting fact about idioms with colors:
“White lie”: When someone tells a “white lie,” they are telling a harmless or small lie to avoid hurting someone’s feelings. The term “white” in this context refers to purity or innocence.
[/box]
6. Once in a blue moon: This idiom means that something happens very rarely.
Example: I only see my cousin once in a blue moon because she lives in another country.
7. Black and white: This expression is used to describe something that is very clear or easy to understand, with no ambiguity or confusion.
Example: The rules of the game are black and white; there’s no room for interpretation.
8. Catch sb red-handed: To catch someone red-handed means to catch them in the act of doing something wrong or illegal.
Example: The store owner caught the thief red-handed as he was trying to steal a candy bar.
9. Have a yellow streak: This idiom means that someone has a cowardly or fearful side to their personality.
Example: Although he talks tough, he has a yellow streak and avoids confrontations.
10. Get/give the green light: To get or give the green light means to give or receive permission to proceed with something.
Example: We got the green light from our boss to start working on the new project.
11. Out of the blue: This expression means that something happens unexpectedly or without warning.
Example: I hadn’t heard from my old friend in years, and then she called me out of the blue.
12. Paint the town red: To paint the town red means to go out and have a fun, wild, or exciting time.
Example: After finishing their exams, the students decided to paint the town red and celebrate.
13. Red tape: Red tape refers to excessive bureaucracy or rules and regulations that make it difficult to get things done.
Example: The new business owner was frustrated by all the red tape involved in getting a permit.
14. In the pink: This idiom means to be in good health or in a good condition.
Example: After a week of being sick, I’m finally feeling in the pink again.
15. Lend color to st: To lend color to something means to make it more interesting, exciting, or believable.
Example: The vivid descriptions in the novel lent color to the story, making it more engaging for readers.
In conclusion, idioms are a fun and creative way to express ideas and emotions. By understanding and using these color-related idioms, you can add depth and richness to your language skills.
