Out with the old, in with the new

Idiom: Out with the old, in with the new – To change the old for the new. To leave old things or ideas behind and bring in new things or ideas. Example 1 Jerry:  What are you doing? Malcom: I’m eating raw spinach with almonds for lunch. Jerry: That doesn’t look very appetizing. Malcom: Well, with the new year […]

To start from scratch

Idiom: To start from scratch – To start something from the very beginning Context #1 Jen: I really admire Keisha. She has become a successful restaurant owner in just three years. Kat: I agree. And did you know that she started from scratch? There were no restaurants in that area and she raised the startup money herself! She even cooked […]

At face value

Idiom: at face value Example 1-Sales representatives will do anything to sell you their product.  So, don’t take their word at face value. Example 2-Charlie is very smart; if he gives you legal advice, you should take it at face value. Meaning: “at face value” means the superficial appearance or implication of something. @LSILA @LSINE @LSIOC @LSISB www.languagesystems.edu

Get a kick out of something

Idiom: “Get a kick out of something” Example #1: Chris: Hey Leo, are you watching the World Cup game today? Leo: I love watching the World Cup. I get a kick out of major tournaments. They’re always exciting. Chris: Yeah, me too. It’s nice to see the world come together for such a big event. Leo: […]

Horsing around

Idiom: “horsing around” Example: Mariela:  Minami, you really should pay more attention in your Idioms class. I don’t think you pay attention in class, you are always horsing around. Minami:Horsing around? I don’t have a horse! I don’t even know how to ride a horse.  I take the bus everywhere I go! Mariela: No, silly. Horsing […]

Loose Cannon

Idiom: Loose Cannon Meaning: A person who doesn’t think of their actions or their effects on those around them.  Example: Michele: I can’t believe how Jason acted at the party. Christina: I heard he was such a loose cannon and hurt a lot of people’s feelings. Michele: I don’t think the alcohol helped any. For […]

To be on cloud nine

Idiom: to be on cloud nine Meaning: To be very content, happy, and in an excellent mood Example: Iain: Jennifer has been on cloud nine all day. Mary: I know! It’s because she got engaged last night. Iain: Ah!! That makes sense now. For more information, please visit www.languagesystems.edu