English is a language rich with idiomatic expressions that often leave non-native speakers puzzled. An idiom is a phrase where the words together have a meaning that is different from the dictionary definitions of the individual words. They can convey wisdom, describe a situation, or express a commonality that is understood between native speakers. Learning common English idioms can greatly enhance your grasp of the language and make you sound like a fluent speaker. Here’s a look at some popular English idioms and what they mean.

Break the ice
To do or say something that makes people feel more relaxed, especially at the beginning of a meeting or party where people might be feeling awkward or uncomfortable.
I’ll tell a joke to break the ice before I present the main speech.

Bite the bullet
To endure a painful or otherwise unpleasant situation that is seen as unavoidable.
The time has come to bite the bullet and get this set of examinations done.

Burn the midnight oil
To work late into the night, alluding to the time before electric lighting.
I have to burn the midnight oil to finish this project on time.

A piece of cake
A job, task or other activity that is easy or simple.
I thought this test was going to be tough, but it turned out to be a piece of cake.

Barking up the wrong tree
Looking in the wrong place or accusing the wrong person.
If you think I’m the one who broke the vase, you’re barking up the wrong tree.

Spill the beans
To reveal a secret or disclose something confidential by accident or mistake.
He wasn’t supposed to know his surprise birthday party plan, but I accidentally spilled the beans.

Hit the nail on the head
To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.
She hit the nail on the head when she said this company needs more innovative products.

Under the weather
Feeling ill or unwell.
I’m feeling a bit under the weather today, so I think I’ll skip the meeting.

When pigs fly
A way of saying that something will never happen.
He’ll clean his room when pigs fly—it’s never going to happen!

The ball is in your court
It is up to you to make the next decision or step.
I’ve done all I can, now the ball is in your court.

A dime a dozen
Something common and easy to get.
These types of cell phones are a dime a dozen these days.

Beat around the bush
Avoiding the main topic. Not speaking directly about the issue.
Quit beating around the bush and tell me what the problem is!

Cost an arm and a leg
Something that is very expensive or costly.
This watch is really nice, but it cost an arm and a leg.

Jump on the bandwagon
Joining others in doing something or supporting a cause because it is fashionable or advantageous.
Now that the software has become popular, everyone is jumping on the bandwagon.

Let the cat out of the bag
To reveal a secret, usually accidentally.
I was trying to keep the party a secret, but my little brother let the cat out of the bag.

Understanding and using idioms can be a lot of fun. It can also show that you have a more nuanced understanding of the English language. As you learn more idiomatic expressions, you’ll find yourself more comfortable in various social scenarios and able to grasp the essence of English colloquialisms. Happy learning!