You may find, when communicating with native English speakers, that sometimes they use certain sayings/expressions and idioms that you did not learn in your English grammar classes. It may be difficult to fully understand all the conversations around you because of this. This workbook will help you better understand these conversations by teaching you the meanings behind some common phrases.

What is a Saying/Expression?

A saying/expression is a phrase that expresses a common belief among people. The words used in the phrase are usually related to its overall meaning. For example, “once bitten, twice shy” is a saying that expresses how extra careful we become (twice shy) after our first experience with something was unpleasant (once bitten).

What is an Idiom?

An idiom is a peculiar expression that conveys an idea unrelated to the dictionary meaning of the words being used. For example, “it’s raining cats and dogs” simply means “it is raining heavily outside.” You’ll never see actual cats and dogs falling from the sky—at least, I hope you never will!