Idioms PDF

An Oral Language Program that Teaches Idioms and Explains How they Work
David Newman Speech-Language Pathologist

David Newmonic Language Resources
Idioms Language Program
A Friendly Reminder
David Newmonic Language Resources 2009 - 2010
This book and all its contents are intellectual property.
All illustrations by David Newman
No part of this publication may be stored in a retrieval system, transmitted or reproduced in any way, including but not limited to digital copying and printing without the prior agreement and written permission of the author.
2 David Newmonic Language Resources
Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................................................................................4 Notes on each Scenario..................................................................................................................................................................................5 Instructions to Students...............................................................................................................................................................................6 Glossary of Terms............................................................................................................................................................................................9
Cloud Nine scenarios Clothes...............................................................................................................................................................10 Cloud Nine scenarios Animals...............................................................................................................................................................14 Cloud Nine scenarios Colours................................................................................................................................................................18 Cloud Nine scenarios Money.................................................................................................................................................................22 Cloud Nine scenarios Medical..............................................................................................................................................................26
David Newmonic Language Resources

Introduction
This particular idiom program was created because of my initial frustration in attempting to teach the difficult concept of idioms to language impaired students. situation; situations that your students should be familiar with and have some experience with.
If we look at the following example we can see that Mary describes the narrators new friend as a wolf in sheeps clothing, and adds that you need to be careful of Marty. We can assume that Marty is someone the narrators sister doesnt trust much. The inference is that perhaps Marty is an untrustworthy character.
I have found idioms to be a difficult concept to teach successfully. Understanding requires a leap of
imagination on the students part. The role of the clinician or teacher is to provide the scaffolding necessary for the student to make that leap, and truly get the meaning of idioms.
Clothing A Wolf in Sheeps Clothing

Setting: Setting: I liked my new friend Marty, but my sister is not sure about him. She said, You need to be careful of Marty. Hes a wolf in sheeps clothing.
A wolf in sheeps clothing means... a) A wolf that likes to dress in sheepskins b) A person that likes to dress well, but is harmless c) A person who pretends to be good, but is actually
Through trial and error Ive discovered that context is a highly useful means of teaching the concept of idioms. In each individual scenario a common idiom is uttered by a character in a highly contextual
really bad
Idioms - Animals

Notes on Each Scenario
Idioms are an example of figurative language. The correct answer for each scenario is presented as underlined and highlighted in a multiple choice format. Selecting the correct answer from multiple choice provides a little extra scaffolding for students who may struggle with the concept of idioms. Figurative language is a higher level language ability. With figurative language students are required to go beyond literal language and concrete images to explore new layers of meaning.
There are 100 individual scenarios separated into five different categories of 20 scenarios each: clothes, animals, colours, money, and medical.
It is your discretion as a teacher or clinician as to how much scaffolding your students need to be provided. Each student will vary in their ability to learn and to be comfortable with idioms.
The cards can be cut out and laminated and used together with a board game for individual and group use, or as a whole class activity.
I recommend that students with language disorder receive the most amount of scaffolding. They need the extra scaffolding to better create links between literal information and the more metaphorical imagery found in idioms.

Instructions to Students
Please feel free to use the following description aide your as a preparatory preparatory set to of Idioms are a very interesting form of figurative language. They provide us with a new way of looking at the world. students understanding The concrete image is combined with a startling and seemingly unrelated image to create
something new.
idioms. The following is an example of instructions I use when introducing the concept needed. of idioms. as many Repeat times as the is instructions
An idiom is a cultural metaphor that requires Figurative language enables us to explore some understanding of word and world knowledge. That is, idioms are sayings that have been used for generations and have become part of the cultural vernacular.
language in new and interesting ways. Figurative language is a form of language that uses concrete, literal images as a base.

Idioms do require some knowledge about words and how they go together. Second, we have the image of the sheep. A sheep is an animal that is viewed as docile, harmless and gentle. An example of a popular idiom is, a wolf in sheeps
clothing. If we look closely at the idiom from a

literal point of view we have two quite separate and contrasting images.
Finally, when we combine the image of the wolf with the image of the sheep we have the strange picture of a wolf dressed in sheeps clothing.
First, there is the image of the wolf. Historically the wolf is viewed as a predator. We have learnt from stories such as the three little pigs that a wolf is a dangerous creature that cannot be trusted.
Now, the two separate images of the wolf and sheep dont normally go together. But the beauty of idioms is that the two images can actually be
fused to create a whole new meaning.

To successfully combine the two contrasting images requires a leap of imagination on our parts. And idioms, with their creative use of language, are very good at triggering our Why does the wolf dress in sheeps clothing? Answer: The wolf is trying to distract us from its true nature. The wolf hopes to trick us into thinking it is harmless; that it is just a sheep.
imaginations. When we use the idiom of a wolf in sheeps So in our example of the wolf, we can picture a wolf actually dressed in sheeps clothing. We can imagine that the clothing is in fact a disguise. clothing to describe a person we are essentially saying that a particular person cannot be trusted, even though his/her appearance and manner appears harmless to us. We assume this because we know the wolfs nature and that beneath the sheeps clothing it remains a dangerous predator. The idiom of a wolf in sheeps clothing reminds us that sometimes we need to look beyond surface appearances to discover a persons true nature.

Glossary of Terms
The following terms have been added for your convenience. Some of the words and descriptions in the introductory notes may confuse some students. Vernacular: the everyday language that is spoken by a particular people or country that is different from literary language.
Figurative Language: figurative language contains images that a writer or speaker uses to make unusual comparisons between items.
Predator: an organism (animal insect) that lives by preying on other organisms.
Literal language: literal language is words or images that dont deviate from their defined meaning.
Fuse: to unite or blend something together, like melting.
Cultural Metaphor: images or language that is particular to a region or cultural group and that has specific meaning to that group.
Disguise: to change your appearance or conceal identity with the intent to mislead.

Belt Below the Belt
Setting: I thought it was below the belt when my best friend stole my new footy and didnt return it, even after I asked for its return.
Below the belt means a) To get hit by a ball on the legs b) When a friend takes something that belongs to you
Pocket Burn a Hole in Ones Pocket

Setting: I was in the biggest toy store in the country - I could feel the money burn a hole in my
Kill Dressed to Kill

Setting: My sister was getting ready to go to the ball. She was dressed to kill.
pocket.
Burn a hole in ones pocket means a) To have a hole in your pants pocket b) To have money that youre likely to spend
quickly
c) To have money that you want to save Idioms: Clothes
c) To do something cowardly or unfair

Idioms: Clothes
Dressed to kill means a) To wear your best clothes b) To wear clothes like a ninja c) To wear your baggiest or worst clothes in public
Idioms: Clothes
Cap Feather in Ones Cap

Setting: To be named captain of my footy team was a real feather in my cap.
Comb Fine Tooth Comb

Setting: I went over my written story with a fine
Glove Fits Like a Glove

Setting: I tried on my new school uniform. It fit
tooth comb to make certain there were no

spelling mistakes.
Fine tooth comb means a) Careful attention to detail to ensure nothing is
like a glove.
Fits like a glove means a) An article of clothing that fits perfectly b) An article of clothing that is too tight c) An article of clothing that is too loose Idioms: Clothes
Feather in ones cap means a) To wear a cap that comes with a bright feather b) To be given something you didnt deserve c) To achieve something to be proud of
missed
b) A comb used to brush fine hair c) To look for spelling mistakes Idioms: Clothes
Idioms: Clothes

Socks Pull up Your Socks
Setting: My teacher was very annoyed when he said to me, Its time for you to pull up your socks and start working hard.
Pull up your socks means a) Make a decent and sustained effort on a task b) To warm your cold legs c) To continue working as before Idioms: Clothes
Shoes In Ones Shoes

Setting: My father said, To truly understand how other people feel you need to walk in their
Shoestring On a Shoestring
Setting: My parents traveled throughout Vietnam and Thailand on a shoestring, and had a great time.
On a shoestring means a) Tying your wallet to your belt with string b) Surviving well on a very small amount of money c) To have large amounts of money and spend it all Idioms: Clothes
shoes for a while.

In ones shoes means a) To walk using someone elses shoes b) To be in another persons place or position c) To be aware of walking in your own shoes Idioms: Clothes
Cap Put Your Thinking Cap on

Setting: The ship was caught in a storm at sea. The captain yelled above the roaring wind, We need to put our thinking caps on if we are to survive this storm.
Put your thinking cap on means a) To place a special cap on your head that aids thinking b) To think long and hard and decisively about
Foot The Shoe is on the Other Foot

Setting: My sister teased me when I had to visit the dentist. Now the shoe was on the other foot it was her turn to visit the dentist.
Belt Tighten Your Belt

Setting: My mother said, Your father has had his hours at work cut back. That means we all have to tighten our belts.
something
c) To make a hasty decision about something Idioms: Clothes
The shoe is on the other foot means a) Its the sisters turn to visit the dentist b) The sister was wearing the wrong shoes c) Places and roles are reversed Idioms: Clothes
Tighten your belt means a) To lose weight b) To spend money without care c) To live on less money than usual Idioms: Clothes

Family Wear the Pants in Ones Family
Setting: My friends mother wears the pants in
Boots Too Big for Your Boots

Setting: My friends team won the grand final. My friend told everybody what a great player he was. My father said, That lads become too big
Handle Gloves Handle with Kid Gloves

Setting: My sister is very sensitive about her new braces. Its important to handle her with kid
her family. She is always telling her husband

what to do.
Wear the pants in ones family means a) To wear pants rather than dresses b) To be in charge and the leader of the family c) To take orders from the stronger partner Idioms: Clothes
gloves about her braces.

Handle with kid gloves means a) To be deliberately rude to somebody b) To wear special gloves when talking about sensitive issues c) To treat somebody with special gentleness Idioms: Clothes
for his boots.

Too big for your boots means a) Your feet have grown too large for your boots b) To be swollen with conceit c) To have played well and been a great player for your team Idioms: Clothes
Down Hand Me Down

Setting: I really hate it when my mother gives me my brothers hand me down clothes. I want new clothes.
Hand me down means a) Clothes that are too big for you b) Clothes that are too ugly to wear c) Things that are given away after the owner
Pants Ants in Ones Pants

Setting: The little boy ran around the room yelling loudly. The kinder teacher told him to sit down. She said, You have ants in your pants.
Ants in ones pants means a) To have ants crawling in your pants b) To enjoy running and yelling c) To be very restless and have lots of nervous
Pocket Burn a Hole in Ones Pocket

Setting: Setting: My money was burning a hole in my
pocket. I couldnt wait to get to the milk bar and

buy some candy.
Burn a hole in ones pocket means a) Money that is likely to be spent quickly b) Coins that can cause holes in jeans pockets c) Money that is spent on buying candy Idioms: Clothes
doesnt need it
Idioms: Clothes
energy
Idioms: Clothes
Seams Burst at the Seams

Setting: I got on the school bus and tried to find a seat, but the bus was bursting at the seams and I couldnt find one.
Burst at the seams means a) The stitching on a pair of jeans seam becomes undone b) The tyres on a bus burst c) Something is far too full or is overcrowded Idioms: Clothes
Out Decked Out

Setting: My older brother was all decked out in his new tuxedo, and was ready for the debutante ball.
Decked out means a) To wear your clothes inside out b) To be dressed in your best clothes c) To be dressed in your worst clothes
Idioms: Clothes

Wolves To Throw Someone to the Wolves
Setting: The coach played a first game player, on the oppositions champion. His assistant said, Youre throwing that player to the wolves.
To throw someone to the wolves means... a) To send someone into danger without
Clothing A Wolf in Sheeps Clothing

Setting: Setting: I liked my new friend Marty, but my sister is not sure about him. She said, You need to be careful of Marty. Hes a wolf in
Mouse As Quiet as a Mouse

Setting: I wanted to say hello to the new girl in class, because she seemed a bit lost and was as
quiet as a mouse.
As quiet as a mouse means a) Very quiet and shy b) Very loud and boisterous c) To be very quick, like a mouse Idioms - Animals
sheeps clothing.
A wolf in sheeps clothing means... a) A wolf that likes to dress in sheepskins b) A person that likes to dress well, but is harmless c) A person who pretends to be good, but is
protection. To sacrifice a person.

b) To feed hungry wolves c) To protect someone using wolves Idioms - Animals
actually really bad

Idioms - Animals
Dog As Sick as a Dog

Setting: I had far too much to eat at the Christmas party and felt as sick as a dog the next day.
As sick as a dog means a) To be very sick b) To feel a little poorly c) To bark like a dog Idioms - Animals
Mule As Stubborn as a Mule

Setting: My friend refused to go on the camping trip because he didnt want to sleep outdoors. I couldnt change his mind because hes as stubborn as a mule.
As stubborn as a mule means a) To kick like a mule b) To not want to do things c) To be immovable and inflexible on an issue Idioms - Animals
One Worse one Bite Ones Bark is Worse than ones Bite
Setting: My new teacher scolded me for not doing the math problem. My friend whispered, Dont worry about him, hes a good guy. His
bark is worse than his bite.

Ones bark is worse than ones bite means a) Someone words are worse than their actions b) Someone who likes to bite people c) Someone whose actions are worse than the things they say Idioms - Animals

Family The Black Sheep of the Family
Setting: My older brother is the black sheep of
Shop A Bull in a China Shop

Setting: My mum told me, Im not letting you go to your sisters pyjama party. It would be like letting a bull into a china shop.
A bull in a china shop means a) Someone who likes to smash delicate china plates and cups b) Leading a bull through a china shop c) A tactless person who upsets others or their
your Tongue? Cat got your Tongue?

Setting: I was very nervous and couldnt respond when my friends father said hello to me. He said, Whats wrong, cat got your tongue?
Cat got your tongue means a) A cat that likes to steal tongues b) To not be able to move ones tongue c) Cannot speak because of shyness
the family. Hes always getting into trouble and

nobody can trust him.
The black sheep of the family means a) Someone who likes to herd black sheep b) The most disliked or troublesome member of a
family
c) The member of a family who stands out the most Idioms - Animals
plans
Idioms - Animals Idioms - Animals
Roof Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Setting: I couldnt keep my little brother quiet. He was leaping from couch to couch in the lounge room like a cat on a hot tin roof.
Cat on a hot tin roof means a) To prowl like a cat b) To be full of energy and very lively c) To be not very energetic Idioms - Animals
Copycat A Copycat
Setting: I looked over at my friends work and he had copied exactly what I had done. I thought to myself, you copycat.
A copycat means a) To make an exact copy of something using a photocopier b) Someone who copies anothers work c) Someone who creates an original essay or drawing Idioms - Animals
Cat Curiosity Killed the Cat

Setting: My big sister packed away her new shoes. She said to me, Dont open that shoe box. Remember, curiosity killed the cat.
Curiosity killed the cat means a) To be curious about the contents of an unopened box b) To own a cat that is very curious c) To be so inquisitive that you get into trouble Idioms - Animals

Do Day Every Dog has his Day
Setting: I didnt make it onto the basketball team. My coach said, Dont worry, keep practicing and youll make the team. Every dog
Dogs Fight like Cats and Dogs

frown, You two always fight like cats and dogs.
Dragged Look Like Something the Cat Dragged in
Setting: My brother and I always argue over the Setting: I came home from the footy after having played in the mud and rain. My mum said, My T.V. We started to fight. Our mum said with a goodness, you look like something the cat
has his day.

Every dog has his day means a) To own a dog that likes to sleep during the day b) Every person gets their deserved turn or Fight like cats and dogs means a) To argue and fight with someone you know well b) To watch cats and dogs fighting c) To hiss like a cat or growl like a dog when fighting Idioms - Animals
dragged in.
Look like something the cat dragged in means a) To look a little untidy b) To look all muddy and wet c) To look tired, worn out, and very dirty Idioms - Animals
chance
c) To be unlucky Idioms - Animals
Molehill Make a Mountain out of a Molehill

Setting: I was embarrassed when I spilt a drink on my friends new carpet. My friend was kind and said, Dont worry; youre making a mountain
The Back The Straw that Broke the Camels Back

Setting: My sister kept losing things at school. Mum was angry after she lost her school bag. She said, Thats the straw that broke the
Horns Take the Bull by the Horns

Setting: The coach was passionate as he instructed his team. He said, I know the opposition is the top team; but take the bull by
out of a molehill.
Make a mountain out of a molehill means
a) To make a little problem into a big problem b)To make something that is unimportant seem
camels back.
The straw that broke the camels back means a) A small final setback that has built up to
the horns and beat them at their own game.

Take the bull by the horns means a) To wrestle a bull to the ground with brute strength b) To beat somebody at their own game c) To take decisive and direct action Idioms - Animals
cause a collapse or a bigger problem

b) A camel that cant carry any more on its back c) A small problem that will not cause too much difficulty Idioms - Animals
important
c) To get upset over a spilt drink Idioms - Animals
Kitten As Weak as a Kitten

Setting: My best friend has had the flu and been away from school for two weeks. When he came to school today he looked as weak as a
Tailed Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed

Setting: I got up this morning and the sky was clear and the sun was shining. I felt bright eyed
and bushy tailed.

Bright eyed and bushy tailed means a) To climb a tree like a possum b) To be very cheerful and excited c) To feel flat and not energetic
kitten.
As weak as a kitten means a) To feel as fast and as agile as a cat b) To feel sickly and fragile c) To feel a little ill Idioms - Animals
Idioms - Animals

White Black and White
Setting: The manager tends to view issues in terms of being black and white. He is inflexible and cant be shifted on his views.
Black and white means a) Thinking that all things are either totally good
Face Blue in the Face

Setting: I argued with my sister until I was blue in
RedCatch Someone Red-Handed

Setting: The villain was in the process of stealing the money when the policeman caught
the face, but couldnt get her to change the

T.V. channel.
Blue in the face means a) Someones face turns blue from shouting b) To be upset and emotional about an issue c) To not be able to breathe properly Idioms: Colours
him red-handed.
Catch someone red-handed means a) To catch someone when theyre
doing
or utterly bad
b) To be flexible and open-minded about issues c) To be colour blind Idioms: Colours
something wrong
b) To catch someone with red paint on their hands c) To catch someone who steals a lot Idioms: Colours
Light Give Someone the Green Light

Setting: The pool looked very inviting and our class wanted to jump in, but we had to wait for our teachers permission. Finally, we were given
Greener Grass is Always Greener

Setting: I realized that the grass isnt always
Envy Green with Envy

Setting: I was green with envy when my friend won the lead role in the play, whereas I was only one of the extras.
To be green with envy means a) To be very jealous and full of envy b) To feel a bit ill and turn a little green c) To be envious yet happy for a friends success
greener on the other side. My new school is not

as good as my old school.
Grass is always greener on the other side means a) The grass in the next paddock gets more water b) A place or situation that is far away is better
the green light.

Give someone the green light means a) To go through the traffic lights
b) Permission to begin something

c) To stop and wait for permission Idioms: Colours
than where we are now

c) Where we are now is better than the next place Idioms: Colours Idioms: Colours

Look at the World Through Rose Glasses Coloured Glasses
Setting: My mother views the world through
Moon Once in a Blue Moon

Setting: My parents are very health conscious, so we only get to have fish & chips once in a blue
Red Paint the Town Red

Setting: My parents were in a good mood. Dad said, as they were leaving, Tonight, your mother and I are going out to paint the town red.
Paint the town red means
rose coloured glasses and sees only the good in

situations.
Look at the world through rose coloured glasses means a) To wear a pair of rose glasses that distorts vision b) To be too optimistic about something; to only
moon .
Once in a blue moon means a) To happen only rarely b) To only buy fish & chips when its a full moon c) To only buy fish & chips once a year Idioms: Colours
a) To go out and have a great time

b) To go out with pots of paint and paint buildings red c) To live in a town that has red buildings Idioms: Colours
see the bright side

c) To view world events in a negative way Idioms: Colours
Carpet Roll Out the Red Carpet

Setting: When the president visited our city, the mayor rolled out the red carpet for him.
To roll out the red carpet means... a) To put in a new carpet in a house b) To welcome and show respect to a visiting
Colours Show ones True Colours

Setting: I always felt that my boss didnt like me, but he was always nice to me. His true colours were revealed when he fired me.
To show ones true colours means... a) To reveal the colour of your skin and eyes b) When an individual displays the type of person
Elephant White Elephant

Setting: Federation square is controversial. Some developers believe the square to be a great venue and meeting place, whereas others describe it as a white elephant.
White elephant means... a) A useless place or problematic situation b) A building or venue that has great potential c) A rare albino elephant Idioms: Colours
person
c) To treat a visiting person with disrespect Idioms: Colours
they really are

c) To wear matching coloured clothes Idioms: Colours

Colours To Pass with Flying Colours
Setting: I nervously looked at my exam results and was relieved to learn that I had passed with
Pink Tickled Pink

Setting: I sent flowers to my best friend on her birthday. She was tickled pink that I had remembered her birthday.
To be pickled pink means... a) To be very pleased and delighted b) To be annoyed or very cross c) To be tickled so hard your skin turns pink Idioms: Colours
Lie White Lie

Setting: I really wanted to see a new rock band that night, so I told my friend a white lie. I said, I cant come to your birthday party because I feel a bit sick.
White lie means a) To tell a huge lie b) To tell a harmless lie to avoid hurting
flying colours.
To pass with flying colours means a) To make a bare pass, or just pass b) To pass with great success c) To pass a course in flying coloured kites Idioms: Colours
someones feelings
c) To tell a lie in order to trick someone Idioms: Colours
Red To See Red

Setting: I began to see red when I learnt that I had been misled by the car salesman, and bought a terrible car.
To see red means a) To wear red tinted sunglasses b) To become very angry or annoyed c) To become aware of something Idioms: Colours
Tape Red Tape

Setting: It could be argued that state and national water wastage is a problem because of
Blue Out of the Blue

Setting: Out of the blue our math teacher resigned and decided that he wanted to live and work in India.
Out of the blue means a) A complete surprise. No warning b) To come to a decision c) An object that appears from out of a clear blue sky Idioms: Colours
red tape in government departments.

Red tape means a) Having to overcome time consuming paperwork
to complete a goal
b) Red tape used to seal office doors c) Difficulty in deciding on a course of action Idioms: Colours
In the Red Red

Setting: The businessman said to his staff, Im afraid Im going to have to let some of you go, because our business is too much in the red.
In the red means a) To use red ink in your pen instead of blue or black b) To have too many staff in a company c) To lose money and to be unprofitable Idioms: Colours
Pot Calling the Kettle Black Black

Setting: My friend criticized me for wearing dirty shoes, which is the pot calling the kettle
black, because his shoes are dirtier than mine.

Pot calling the kettle black means a) To have dirty pots on the stove b) The person who criticizes is as guilty as those
he accuses
c) To be fair and reasonable with criticism Idioms: Colours

Ones Bet Ones Bottom Dollar
Scenario: My mother and I were waiting in the car for Dad to come out of the hardware store. Mom said, Ill bet my bottom dollar that your father wont be out of that store anytime soon.
Bet ones bottom dollar means... a) The dollar is in the bottom of my pocket b) My money is at the bottom of the well c) Bet all one has on something. A certainty. Idioms: Money
One ne Born with a Silver Spoon in Ones Mouth Scenario: My friend and I watched as our classmate was driven to school in his fathers luxury car. My friend turned to me and said that boy was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
Born with a silver spoon in ones mouth means... a) Someone who likes the taste of silver b) Someone born to wealth and comfort c) Someone who always has a spoon in ones mouth Idioms: Money
Bottom Line
Scenario: My teacher wasnt happy with me when he said, The bottom line is, if you dont start working harder on your project, I may have to fail you.
Bottom line means... a) The most important thing b) The line at the bottom c) The point of no return Idioms: Money
Dime a Dozen
Scenario: I wanted to buy a yellow budgie. My mum frowned and said Budgies are a dime a
Flat Broke
Scenario: My friend and I went to the fish & chip shop for lunch. I bought potato cakes, while my friend bought chips. He turned to me and said Id love to buy some fish but Im flat broke.
Flat broke means... a) Having no money b) Your have a flat tire and your bike is broken c) Your wallet has a hole in it Idioms: Money
For a Song
Scenario: My mother was in a good mood. She pointed to an old battered fry pan and said I found this down at the second hand store. I bought it for a song.
For a song means... a) To be good at singing songs b) To buy something for a low price, to buy
dozen. Id much prefer you bought a canary.

Dime a dozen means... a) Something that isnt worth much b) Something that is worth as much as a carton of eggs. c) Easy to get or buy, therefore of little value. Idioms: Money
cheaply
c) To sing a song for an item, instead of paying money Idioms: Money

Highway Robbery
Scenario: We went to the car yard to buy a new car. My father looked at the prices and said in an annoyed tone The cars are too expensive here. Its highway robbery.
Highway robbery means... a) To charge a very high price for something b) To rob somebody on the highway c) To steal something from somebody Idioms: Money
Hit the Jackbox

Scenario: My big brother found some money he had lost a year ago. He yelled Whoo Hoo...There must be 40 dollars here. Ive really
On the House
Scenario: The hotel manager was a good friend of my fathers. When our family arrived for dinner the hotel manager said, Tonight, my friend, dinner for you and your family is on the house.
On the house means... a) To sit on the roof of a house b) To eat dinner on the floor of a house c) The owner of a place pays for you Idioms: Money
hit the jackbox this time!

Hit the jackbox means... a) Hit a jack-in-the-box in the mouth b) Make or find a lot of money suddenly c) Win at the casino Idioms: Money
Strike it Rich
Scenario: My uncle burst into the house with a huge smile on his face and said, I struck it rich. We learnt later that he had won a lot of money in the lottery.
Strike it rich means... a) To smile warmly at someone b) Become suddenly wealthy or successful without
Stone Broke
Scenario: My friends were going to the cinema to see the new film. They asked if I wanted to come. I replied, I cant go to the cinema because Im stone broke.
Stone-broke means... a) To have a pocket full of stones b) To be as poor as a broken stone c) To have no money Idioms: Money
Scrape Together
Scenario: My friend Paul wanted to buy the new action figure. He said, If we combine our money well be able to scrape together enough money to buy that toy.
Scrape together means... a) To share money with someone b) To gather small amounts of money together to
expecting to.
c) To strike the ground with a pickaxe and find gold. Idioms: Money
form a small total.

c) To gather money together with a friend Idioms: Money

Red Cent
Scenario: My father shopped for a new lawn mower. He said I wouldnt give a red cent for half the mowers I saw today.
Red cent means... a) A red cent is a coin that is shiny red b) The smallest amount of money c) The last coin in your wallet Idioms: Money
Rake in the Money

Scenario: My parents have been raking in the
Rain Check
Scenario: I invited my friend over to watch a DVD. He said, Sorry, I cant. Ill have to take a
money with their cleaning business. They have

so much money now that our family will be able to go on a long holiday to Fiji.
Rake in the money means... a) To make a lot of money b) To use a rake to gather up spare money c) To clean money Idioms: Money
rain check. Ill come next time

Rain check means... a) To promise to be available for an invitation at
a later date
b) To check for rain before accepting an invitation c) To enjoy dancing in the rain Idioms: Money
Through Pay Through the Nose

Scenario: I had to pay through the nose to buy my new jeans. They are the latest style and certainly not cheap.
Pay through the nose means... a) To pay for something using the length of your nose as a measure b) Pay money for something that is a very high
Pass the Buck

Scenario: My mother was angry. She said, I am so tired of being blamed for others mistakes. My boss keeps passing the buck.
Pass the buck means... a) To pass money on to someone who needs it b) To take responsibility for ones own actions c) To put the responsibility of decision making
On a Shoestring
Scenario: I asked my mother if I could go to the cinema with my friends. She shook her head sadly and said, No, Im afraid were living on a
shoestring, so you cant go.

On a shoestring means... a) To sell shoestrings to make money b) On a very low budget with little money to
price, almost too much

c) To not pay much money for something. A bargain Idioms: Money
onto someone else

Idioms: Money
spend
c) On a high budget with lots of spare money Idioms: Money
to Money to Burn
Scenario: My best friend comes from a family where they have money to burn. Theyre always going on expensive holidays.
Money to burn means... a) Money is scarce; so dont spend it on unnecessary things b) Use paper money to light the fire c) To have lots of money. Money to spare Idioms: Money
As Poor as a Church Mouse

Scenario: My family is as poor as a church mouse. I have holes in my old trainers but cant afford new shoes.
As Poor as a Church Mouse means a) To be wealthy b) To need new shoes c) To be very poor Idioms: Money

One Feet nes Back on Ones Feet
Setting: I felt sick and went to the doctors. He gave me some medicine and told me Id be back
Health Clean Bill of Health

Setting: My grandmother had been ill for some time, but now she was much better. Her doctor gave her a clean bill of health.
Clean bill of health means a) To be given a doctors bill on crisp, clean paper b) A report that confirms a person is healthy c) A report that is uncertain about a persons health
One nes Medicine Taste of Ones own Medicine

Setting: The boy, who rudely knocked the milkshake out of my hand, got a taste of his own
medicine when his ice cream later fell in the sand.

Taste of ones own medicine means a) Having an ice-cream knocked out of your hand unintentionally b) Those that treat others poorly are treated
on my feet in no time.
Back on ones feet means a) To feel better and get out of bed b) To stand up after tripping over c) To feel physically healthy again
the same way

c) Made to swallow bitter medicine
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical Idioms: Medical
Under the Knife Go Under the Knife

Setting: My friend told me, My father went
Ordered Just what the Doctor Ordered

Setting: I was cold and wet after playing footy in the rain and mud. Mum ran me a hot bath, which is just what the doctor ordered.
Just what the doctor ordered means a) The family doctor ordered a hot bath b) Exactly what is needed or wanted c) A doctors orders are to be followed to prevent a cold
Round Bring Round

Setting: My friend fainted because of the heat. I tried to bring her round with a fan but she didnt feel better till much later.
Bring round means a) To restore someone to consciousness b) To walk someone around in a circle when they feel feint c) To bring someone who feels ill a glass of water
under the knife last night. Hes expected to be

home from the hospital tomorrow.
Go under the knife means a) To be operated on in surgery b) To come home from the hospital safely c) To cut your finger
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical

Cold Out Cold
Setting: The football player jumped high for the ball and came crashing back to the ground, and lay without moving. The T.V. commentator said the player looked like he was out cold.
Out cold means a) To be outside on a cold day b) To lose consciousness c) To feel cold and clammy
With ith Come Down With

Setting: My mum was sneezing and didnt look well. She said, I think I may be coming down with a cold.
Come down with a) To walk down the stairs with an item b) To become sick c) To come back to earth
World Feel on Top of the World

Setting: The student came out of the exam room and said, I think I did very well. Im feeling
on top of the world.

Feel on top of the world means a) To feel very happy and very healthy b) To feel giddy from heights c) To feel happy from being up so high
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical
Up Flare Up
Shrinker Head Shrinker
Health Look the Picture of Health

Setting: The nurse was pleased with the patients progress. You look the picture of
Setting: The basketball player played the game Setting: My dad said, The man was ordered by with a sore knee. He put an ice pack on the knee the court to go and see a head shrinker because after the game because it had flared-up again.
Flare-up means a) A reoccurrence of an old injury or illness b) An injury that causes swelling c) To play sport while injured
of his strange behaviour.

Head Shrinker means a) A witch Doctor b) A psychiatrist; a doctor who works with
health, she beamed.

Look the picture of health means a) To look like a picture b) To be in good health and to look healthy c) To look healthy, but be still quite ill
patients who have mental illness.

c) A person who shrinks heads for a living
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical

Mend On the Mend
Setting: The boys grandfather had had surgery two weeks before, but was now up and walking. He said to his grandson, I think Im finally on the mend.
On the mend means a) To feel quite ill b) Starting to heal. Become better c) To repair a broken bone
Wors orst Over the Worst

Setting: The doctor said to the nurse, Im pleased with Mr. Smiths progress. The nurse replied, Yes, I think hes finally over the worst.
Over the worst means a) Starting to recover from an illness b) To be very ill c) Starting to become ill
Tests Run Some Tests

Setting: The doctor said to the patient, I just want to run some tests to make sure that everythings cleared up.
Run some tests means a) A doctor performs medical tests b) A written test to pass an exam c) To have a courier deliver tests to a hospital
Idioms: Medical Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical
Worse Take a Turn for the Worse

Setting: The doctor said to my mother, Your husband has taken a turn for the worst, and will have to stay in hospital for a few extra days.
Take a turn for the worst means a) To turn the corner, become better b) To take your turn in line c) To become more ill
Temperature Run a Temperature

Setting: The mother placed a thermometer in her babys mouth. She frowned and said, Hes
Through Pull Through

Setting: The nurse said, It was touch and go with Mrs. Jones there for a while, but Im now confident that shell pull through.
Pull through means a) To become more ill b) To recover from a serious illness or injury c) To go from being healthy to being sick
running a temperature.
Run a temperature means a) A persons temperature is high, indicating
illness
b) A persons temperature is high, indicating good health c) A person who runs fast has a high temperature
Idioms: Medical Idioms: Medical Idioms: Medical
Down Run Down

Setting: The doctor said to his patient, I want you to take some time off from work. You look
Weather Under the Weather

Setting: My friend didnt feel like coming out to kick the footy. He said he was a bit under the
run down and need a holiday.

Run down means a) To feel a bit down after running a race b) To feel good after working hard c) To be in poor condition, which could lead to
weather.
Under the weather means a) To feel poorly because of a rainy day b) To get wet when youre under a rain cloud
c) To not feel very well
poor health
Idioms: Medical
Idioms: Medical

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An Oral Language Program that Teaches Idioms and Explains How they Work

David Newman Speech-Language Pathologist

Idioms Language Program

This book and all its contents are intellectual property.

All illustrations by David Newman

2 David Newmonic Language Resources

David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Clothing A Wolf in Sheeps Clothing

4 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

5 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

6 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

clothing. If we look closely at the idiom from a

fused to create a whole new meaning.

7 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Idioms Language Program

Predator: an organism (animal insect) that lives by preying on other organisms.

Fuse: to unite or blend something together, like melting.

9 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Pocket Burn a Hole in Ones Pocket

Kill Dressed to Kill

c) To do something cowardly or unfair

Cap Feather in Ones Cap

Comb Fine Tooth Comb

Glove Fits Like a Glove

tooth comb to make certain there were no

10 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Shoes In Ones Shoes

shoes for a while.

Cap Put Your Thinking Cap on

Foot The Shoe is on the Other Foot

Belt Tighten Your Belt

11 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Boots Too Big for Your Boots

Handle Gloves Handle with Kid Gloves

her family. She is always telling her husband

gloves about her braces.

for his boots.

Down Hand Me Down

Pants Ants in Ones Pants

Pocket Burn a Hole in Ones Pocket

pocket. I couldnt wait to get to the milk bar and

12 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Seams Burst at the Seams

Out Decked Out

13 David Newmonic Language Resources

Idioms Language Program

Clothing A Wolf in Sheeps Clothing

Mouse As Quiet as a Mouse

protection. To sacrifice a person.

actually really bad

Dog As Sick as a Dog

Mule As Stubborn as a Mule

bark is worse than his bite.