In the journey to master English speaking skills, especially for academic exams like IELTS, using language naturally and flexibly like a native speaker is a goal many learners strive for. One of the key secrets to achieving this is the proficient use of idioms. Idioms not only make your answers more vivid and descriptive but also demonstrate a rich vocabulary and cultural understanding. This article will compile a list of high-scoring idioms to help you become more confident and make a strong impression on examiners.

Why should you use idioms in the Speaking test?

In the IELTS Speaking marking criteria, Lexical Resource accounts for 25% of the total score. Examiners assess not only the ability to use a diverse range of vocabulary but also the accuracy and naturalness of word usage. Using idioms correctly in context proves that you have an extensive vocabulary that goes beyond basic textbook words. It shows that you have been exposed to and understand how native speakers express ideas in a nuanced and creative way. Moreover, a few cleverly integrated idioms can make your speech less "academic" and more engaging and memorable.

How to use idioms naturally?

The key to using idioms effectively is "less is more." Do not try to stuff too many idioms into your speech, as it will make you sound unnatural and rehearsed. Instead, choose a few idioms that you truly understand and feel comfortable using.

• Learn in context: Don't learn idioms in isolation. Learn them through movies, songs, or real-life conversations to understand the specific contexts in which they are used.
• Practice regularly: The best way to master an idiom is to use it. Try to incorporate them into your daily English test preparation sessions, when talking to friends, or when practicing alone in front of a mirror.
• Start with common idioms: Prioritize learning common idioms that native speakers frequently use. This ensures the examiner will understand you and you won't be perceived as using outdated language.

What are some common idioms by topic?

Below is a list of Idioms for Speaking categorized by common topics in speaking tests, making them easier for you to apply.

Topic: Happiness & Sadness

• On cloud nine: Extremely happy and joyful.
  Example: When I heard I had won the scholarship, I was on cloud nine.
• Over the moon: Extremely happy and excited.
  Example: She was over the moon about her new job.
• Feel blue / Have the blues: To feel sad or depressed.
  Example: I was feeling a bit blue after my team lost the match.
• Down in the dumps: Feeling unhappy and without hope.
  Example: He's been down in the dumps ever since he broke up with his girlfriend.

Topic: Work & Study

• Burn the midnight oil: To work or study late into the night.
  Example: I have a big exam tomorrow, so I'll be burning the midnight oil tonight.
• Hit the books: To begin to study in a serious way.
  Example: It's time to hit the books if you want to pass the final test.
• Learn the ropes: To learn the basics of a job or skill.
  Example: It took me a few weeks to learn the ropes at my new position.
• Call it a day: To decide to stop working for the day.
  Example: We've been working for 10 hours straight. Let's call it a day.

Topic: Success & Failure

• A piece of cake: Very easy.
  Example: The English test was a piece of cake for him.
• Pass with flying colors: To pass an exam with a very high score.
  Example: My sister passed her driving test with flying colors.
• Go down in flames: To fail spectacularly.
  Example: His ambitious project went down in flames due to a lack of funding.
• Back to the drawing board: To start over again after a plan or idea has failed.
  Example: Our proposal was rejected, so it's back to the drawing board for us.

Topic: Health & Lifestyle

• Fit as a fiddle: To be in excellent physical health.
  Example: My grandfather is 80 years old, but he's as fit as a fiddle.
• Under the weather: Feeling slightly ill.
  Example: I'm feeling a bit under the weather today, so I think I'll stay home.
• Kick the habit: To stop a bad habit.
  Example: He's trying to kick the habit of smoking.
• A new lease on life: An opportunity to live better or healthier after a difficult period.
  Example: After the surgery, she felt like she had a new lease on life.

What are the mistakes to avoid when using idioms?

Although idioms are very useful, using them incorrectly can be counterproductive. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect context: This is the most common error. An idiom might be grammatically correct but unsuitable for the communication situation. For example, using a very informal idiom in a formal setting.
• Altering the structure: Idioms are fixed phrases. You cannot change the words within them. For instance, "kick the bucket" (to die) cannot be changed to "kick the pail."
• Overuse: As mentioned, overusing idioms will make your speech sound forced. Use them as seasoning, not the main course.

Conclusion:

Using idioms is an advanced skill that can make a significant difference in your Speaking test performance. By understanding their meanings, learning them in context, and practicing regularly, you can use them naturally and effectively. Start with the list above, and gradually expand your repertoire of idioms to communicate more like a native speaker. Good luck!

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