Learn American English - 3 Common Idioms

You have to have a good understanding of what idioms are if you want to learn American English. Idioms are also sometimes called figures of speech. If you have ever listened to Americans speak (maybe you were watching a movie) - you probably have figured out that they don't sound like your English text book when the speak

That does not mean that text book English is no good, it is. But you need to understand common phrases that Americans use. Here are 3 common idioms to help you learn American English better.

Let The Cat Out of The Bag

This idiom means that someone has revealed something that was supposed to have been kept secret. Look at this example. John was going to retire from his job at General Motors, and his friends from work were planning on giving him a nice watch at his retirement party. John was supposed to be surprised with the gift, but one of his fellow co-workers let the cat out of the bag. John acted surprised when he was given the watch as a gift at the party, even though he already knew what he was going to get.

Not Have a Leg To Stand On

This idiom means that really are not strong facts to support a certain position. Look at this example. John believes that his company should pay him extra salary because he put in a lot of overtime last month. The problem is that he does not have a leg to stand on because he has no proof that he worked all the extra hours. If he wants to get paid, he needs to show proof he worked.

Drive Someone Up a Wall

This idiom means that something is making someone crazy and making them angry. Look at this example. Fantastic! That's a great new electric guitar! Yeah, I love it, but the problem is that I can't use it when my parents are home. My mom and dad say that I drive them up a wall with the noise the guitar makes. My Mom tells me the same thing when I practice the tuba at home.

If you want to learn American English you need to make sure you understand figures of speech. If you are able to understand them and be able to use them naturally, you English will be much better.


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