Have you ever heard someone say they were "under the weather" and wondered what the weather had to do with anything? Or maybe a coworker said the project was "a piece of cake" and you were confused because there was no dessert in sight? These are English idioms — phrases that mean something completely different from the literal words — and they are everywhere in everyday American conversation.
At AELS (American English Language School), we know that mastering idioms is one of the keys to speaking English naturally and confidently. Here are eight common idioms you will hear all the time, along with simple examples to help you understand and use them yourself.
Meaning: To be exactly right about something.
Example: "You really hit the nail on the head with that suggestion — that is exactly what we needed."
Meaning: To feel sick or not well.
Example: "I cannot come to class today because I am feeling a little under the weather."
Meaning: To endure a painful or difficult situation bravely.
Example: "I do not enjoy grammar drills, but I decided to bite the bullet and practice every day until I got it right."
Meaning: To accidentally reveal a secret.
Example: "We were planning a surprise party, but Maria let the cat out of the bag when she mentioned it to the guest of honor."
Meaning: To be very expensive.
Example: "Taking a taxi from the airport to downtown costs an arm and a leg. The bus is much cheaper."
Meaning: Very rarely; almost never.
Example: "I only eat fast food once in a blue moon. I prefer cooking at home."
Meaning: Something very easy to do.
Example: "After months of practice, the conversation test was a piece of cake."
Meaning: To work very late into the night.
Example: "She burned the midnight oil studying vocabulary before her English placement exam."
The best way to learn idioms is to hear them in real conversations. At AELS, our experienced teachers use authentic, everyday English in every class so you naturally pick up the phrases that real Americans use. Whether you are learning English for work, school, travel, or daily life, we are here to help you feel confident and comfortable.
Ready to take your English to the next level? Visit AELS today and find the program that is right for you. We would love to help you speak like a native!
We offer classes at our convenient AELS Fullerton campus on Google Maps. Come visit us and take the first step toward speaking English with confidence!
Published on April 9, 2026
American English Language School (AELS) is a CEA-accredited and SEVP-approved English language school authorized to issue I-20 forms for international students. Located in Los Angeles, Orange County (Fullerton), and Irvine, California, AELS offers small classes, conversation-focused lessons, and proven results through individualized learning experiences. If you’re serious about improving your English, join AELS today!