An idiom (also called idiomatic expression) is an expression, word, or phrase that has a figurative meaning conventionally understood by native speakers. This meaning is different from the literal meaning of the idiom’s individual elements. In other words, idioms don’t mean exactly what the words say. They have, however, hidden meaning.
For your IELTS Speaking test, idiomatic language can be important because it is one of the elements in this component of the test the examiner looks for. You can see the marking criteria for your Speaking test here.
A whole new ball game
Meaning
A situation that is completely different from what one is used to or expecting
In a sentence
I used to babysit, but having a child of my own is a new ballgame
Jump (or climb) on the bandwagon
Meaning
Join others in doing or supporting something fashionable or likely to be successful.
Origin
Bandwagon was originally the US term for a large wagon able to carry a band in a procession.
In a sentence
When your TV show does extremely well, advertisers will be competing to be the first to jump on the bandwagon.
Off (or way off) beam
Meaning
When you are mistaken, inaccurate, or incorrect. Or when you are going against or straying away from the correct line of thinking
Origin
Originally, this phrase referred to the radio beam or signal used to guide aircraft.
In a sentence
The boss’ comments about opposing a diverse workforce so off beam.
At someone’s beck and call
Meaning
Always having to be ready to obey someone’s orders immediately.
Origin
Beck in the sense of “significant gesture of command” comes from the verb beck, which is shortened form of beckon and is now found mainly in this phrase.
In a sentence
She is going to be confined to a wheelchair for the next three weeks, but she’s not complaining as she will have a nurse at her beck and call.
Bed of nails
Meaning
A problematic or uncomfortable situation.
Origin
Originally a board with nails pointing out of it, as used by Eastern fakirs and ascetics.
In a sentence
My parents are very judgmental and living with them can be a bed of nails.
Make a beeline for
Meaning
Go rapidly and directly towards.
Origin
The bee was supposed to fly in such a way when returning to its hive.
In a sentence
The hungry tourists made a beeline for the buffet that featured delicious food from all over the world.
Beggar on horseback
Meaning
A formerly poor person made arrogant or corrupt through achieving wealth and luxury.
Origin
The proverbial saying set a beggar on horseback and he’ll ride to the devil.
In a sentence
It’s not surprising that he lost everything and is being investigated by the authorities as he was a beggar on a horseback.
Work like a beaver
Meaning
To work steadily and industriously or to work very hard and energetically. Also, work like a dog, work like a horse.
Origin
The beaver is referred to here because of the industriousness with which it constructs dams.
In a sentence
He worked like a beaver to clean the house.
Learn idiomatic expressions for IELTS
The Speaking test in IELTS is just like a conversation that you would have in everyday life. You may notice many native English speakers use idioms in everyday speech. If you want a higher score for your IELTS Speaking test, you should include some idioms (and use them correctly). In our next Idioms A-Z post, you can learn some more of the most common idioms in English.
Are you unsure if you use idioms correctly? With IELTS Speaking Coaching, you can practice your English speaking with an official IELTS expert and receive feedback on your performance. This is just one of the ways to study for IELTS.
IELTS by IDP app
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