***Remember to use idioms appropriately in context to convey their intended meanings.
Exercise 1: Vocabulary
1. Kill two birds with one stone
Definition: To accomplish two tasks or objectives with a single action.
Example: “By going to the supermarket on my way home from work, I can kill two birds with one stone.”
2. Break a leg
Definition: A way to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or important event.
Example: “You’re going to do great in your presentation. Break a leg!”
3. Every cloud has a silver lining
Definition: There is something positive or hopeful in every difficult situation.
Example: “Even though I lost my job, every cloud has a silver lining—I now have the opportunity to pursue a new career.”
4. Caught between a rock and a hard place
Definition: To be in a situation where there are no good choices or options.
Example: “I’m caught between a rock and a hard place—I can either disappoint my family or miss out on an important opportunity.”
5. Straight from the horse’s mouth
Definition: Information or news that comes directly from a reliable or authoritative source.
Example: “I heard that the project deadline has been extended straight from the horse’s mouth—our manager informed me personally.”
6. Let bygones be bygones
Definition: To forget past conflicts or grievances and move on.
Example: “It’s time to let bygones be bygones and rebuild our friendship.”
7. When pigs fly
Definition: Something that is highly unlikely or improbable to happen.
Example: “Sure, I’ll lend you my car when pigs fly!”
8. Out of the blue
Definition: Something that happens suddenly or unexpectedly, without any warning.
Example: “I received an out-of-the-blue job offer today. I wasn’t expecting it at all.”
Exercise 2: Dialogue
Amanda: Hey, Alex, I heard you have a big presentation tomorrow. How are you feeling about it?
Alex: Thanks for asking, Amanda. To be honest, I’m a bit nervous. It’s my first time presenting to the board, and I want to do well.
Amanda: I understand the pressure. Just remember, you’re going to break a leg! You’ve prepared thoroughly, and I’m sure you’ll impress them.
Alex: Thanks for the vote of confidence, Amanda. I hope you’re right. You know, this project has put me in a tough spot. I’m caught between a rock and a hard place. If the board doesn’t approve, it might impact the whole team.
Amanda: I get it, Alex. But you’ve done your best, and that’s what matters. And hey, even if they don’t approve this time, every cloud has a silver lining. It could lead to valuable feedback and improvements for the next presentation.
Alex: You’re right, Amanda. I appreciate your support. I also heard a rumor about some changes in the company. Do you have any information?
Amanda: Yes, it’s true. I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth. Our CEO announced it in the company-wide meeting yesterday. There will be some restructuring, but the details are still unclear.
Alex: Change can be challenging, but I guess we have to let bygones be bygones and adapt to the new situation.
Amanda: Absolutely, Alex. Just remember, sometimes unexpected opportunities can arise when you least expect them, like that job offer I got out of the blue last month.
Alex: That’s true. I’ll keep an open mind. Thanks for the advice, Amanda.
Exercise 3: Fill in the Blanks
Sophia: Hey, Jake, I heard you’re planning a weekend getaway.
Jake: Yeah, I’ve been wanting to visit both my grandparents and my college friends, so I thought I could “_______________” by combining the trips.
Sophia: That’s a smart idea! It’s always nice to catch up with loved ones. Just remember to drive safely. Oh, and I heard you’re going to participate in that charity run next week.
Jake: That’s right, I’m excited about it, but also a bit nervous. I hope I can finish the race. People keep telling me, “_______________,” but you know how important it is to me.
Sophia: Absolutely, Jake. You’ve been training hard, and I’m sure you’ll do great. Just remember that “_______________,” even if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Jake: Thanks, Sophia. I needed that encouragement. By the way, have you talked to Lisa recently? I heard she’s been “_______________” because of her busy work schedule.
Sophia: Yes, I have. She’s been working long hours, but she’s managing it well. She always says, “_______________” and focuses on the positive aspects of her job.
Jake: Lisa’s always had a great attitude. I admire that. Anyway, thanks for the chat, Sophia. I’ll let you know how the trip and the charity run go.
Sophia: You’re welcome, Jake. Enjoy your weekend, and remember to “_______________” whenever possible!
Options:
1. Kill two birds with one stone
2. Break a leg
3. Every cloud has a silver lining
4. Caught between a rock and a hard place
5. Straight from the horse’s mouth
6. Let bygones be bygones
7. When pigs fly
8. Out of the blue
Exercise 4: Exercises
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- Create examples using the idioms above.
- If that is too easy, challenge yourself and create a dialogue with each idiom!
- Discuss which idioms you found interesting.
- Are any of the idioms similar or different compared to idioms in your language?
- Discuss where you think each idiom got its meaning
