Who doesn’t remember the excitement and anxiety of school days? The joy of discovering new concepts, the thrill of turning the pages of a fresh book, or the dread of a looming exam? Learning isn’t just confined to classrooms, it’s a lifelong journey. But how do we express these experiences and feelings in English? Could idioms be the key to unlock this mystery? Ever wondered how idioms like ‘bookworm’ or ‘learning the ropes’ relate to learning experiences? Let’s dive in and find out!
Embark on a fascinating journey through 19 popular English idioms, each echoing a unique aspect of education and learning:
1. Bookworm: A person who loves to read.
Example: Peter is a real bookworm, always with his head in a book.
2. Hit the books: To begin studying hard.
Example: I have to hit the books tonight, I have a big exam tomorrow.
3. Learning the ropes: To understand the basics of something.
Example: The new employee is still learning the ropes.
4. A for effort: Recognition for trying hard to do something even if the result isn’t successful.
Example: Although she didn’t win the race, we gave her an A for effort.
5. Teach someone a lesson: To punish someone as a way of discouraging bad behavior.
Example: The team’s loss will teach them a lesson about underestimating their opponents.
6. Pass with flying colors: To succeed easily.
Example: She passed her final exams with flying colors.
7. Learn by heart: To memorize something.
Example: I learned all the state capitals by heart.
8. School of hard knocks: Learning from life’s difficult experiences.
Example: He never went to college but he learned plenty in the school of hard knocks.
9. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks: It’s hard to make people change their habits or ways.
Example: My grandfather still writes letters by hand. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
10. Cut one’s teeth on: To get initial experience or skills in something.
Example: I cut my teeth on my grandmother’s cooking lessons.
11. Learn the hard way: To learn from mistakes or difficult experiences.
Example: He’s finally starting to manage his finances better, but he had to learn the hard way.
12. Put on your thinking cap: To start thinking in a serious manner.
Example: Let’s put on our thinking caps and solve this puzzle.
13. Sharp as a tack: Very intelligent or quick to understand.
Example: She’s as sharp as a tack, she’ll figure out the problem.
14. In a class by oneself: To be in a unique category.
Example: With her innovative designs, she’s in a class by herself.
15. Read between the lines: To infer something that is not directly stated.
Example: By reading between the lines, I sensed he was feeling lonely.
16. A closed book: Something that is not easily understood.
Example: Quantum physics is a closed book to me.
17. Know like the back of your hand: To know something very well.
Example: I know this town like the back of my hand.
18. Turn over a new leaf: To make a new start.
Example: He decided to turn over a new leaf and start studying regularly.
19. Make the grade: To be good enough to meet a standard.
Example: His last project didn’t make the grade so he’s trying harder this time.
In conclusion, idioms related to education and learning add color and depth to the English language, making it even more engaging. These idioms can take you back to your school days, help you share your learning experiences, or describe your personal journey of knowledge. Remember, learning is a never-ending journey, so keep your curiosity alive and keep exploring!