Idioms are phrases that have a figurative meaning different from the literal meaning. They often originate from old stories, proverbs, or historical events. Idioms about food are particularly interesting because they can provide insight into the culture and history of a language or region. For example, the English phrase “the proof is in the pudding” is derived from an old proverb that suggested that one should not judge something until it was finished or tasted. This phrase is still used today to mean that one should wait until something is completed before making any judgments about it. By understanding its etymology and use, we can gain a better understanding of this idiom and others like it.
English idioms that involve food are a great way to express feelings and emotions. They can be used in everyday conversations or even in writing to convey a message. Here are eight examples of English idioms about food that you can use in your everyday communication:
- “A piece of cake”: This idiom is used to describe something that is easy to do.
I feel I absolutely nailed the exam! Some of those questions were a piece of cake!
- “Bring home the bacon”: To bring home the bacon means to earn money for one’s family.
I took on some extra hours at work since my spouse decided to go back to college and finish their degree; I have to bring home the bacon.
- “Butter someone up”: To butter someone up means to flatter them in order to gain favor or approval.
Stop buttering me up; I’ll never reveal who your Secret Santa is this year so you’ll just have to wait for the office holiday party to find that out.
- “Cool as a cucumber”: This idiom is used to describe someone who remains calm and composed in difficult situations.
How do you remain so calm during high-stake negotiations? I was watching you from across the table yesterday and you appeared as cool as a cucumber.
- “Eat humble pie”: To eat humble pie means to admit one’s mistakes and apologize for them humbly
Alright, I totally underestimated the difficulty of this product and now I have to eat some humble pie and explain to my team leader that we won’t make the deadline unless we come in over the weekend.
- “Sour grapes” – This idiom is used when someone talks negatively about something they cannot have or do not want anymore.
His negative attitude toward dancing is simply sour grapes; he actually has two left feet and is embarrassed about it. Why doesn’t he just join a dance class and work on it?
- “The icing on the cake” – This idiom means that something makes a situation even better than it already was before.
My first day at work today was a blast; everyone was so nice and it turns out that my office is on the top floor! The icing on the cake is that I have the most beautiful view of the park across.
- “Spill the beans” – This idiom means to reveal a secret or information that was meant to stay private.
Come on, spill the beans! I know you’ve heard who’s getting the promotion.
English idioms about food are a great way to add some color and humor to your conversations. They can be used to express an emotion or opinion in a creative way.
Cheers!
Written by Aris S.H. (LTES Tutor)
