Idioms and fixed expressions
Use C1 idioms and fixed expressions naturally: a double-edged sword, the tip of the iceberg, by and large, to all intents and purposes.
In this lesson you will
- Understand and use higher-level idioms
- Use fixed expressions and binomials
- Match idioms to register
Learn
Idioms for discussion: a double-edged sword (has good and bad sides), the tip of the iceberg (a small part of a bigger problem), a grey area (unclear), a vicious circle, a level playing field (fair competition), move the goalposts (change the rules unfairly).
Fixed expressions: by and large (generally), to all intents and purposes (in effect), for the time being, in the long run, on the whole, as a rule, at the end of the day.
Binomials (fixed pairs, fixed order): pros and cons, trial and error, ups and downs, sick and tired, peace and quiet, by and large, first and foremost, sooner or later. Cons and pros ✗.
Register: many idioms are neutral enough for semi-formal writing (a double-edged sword, the tip of the iceberg); others are informal (sick and tired, at the end of the day). Use them sparingly in essays.
Examples
- Social media is a double-edged sword.
- These complaints are just the tip of the iceberg.
- By and large, the project was a success.
- We found the solution through trial and error.
Vocabulary
double-edged sword
something with both advantages and disadvantages
vicious circle
a bad situation that keeps making itself worse
grey area
a situation that is not clear
binomial
a fixed pair of words joined by and/or
level playing field
a fair situation for everyone
Practice
Technology can be a ___: it connects and isolates us.
Speaking
Discuss a complex issue (e.g. remote work, AI, tourism) for 90 seconds using at least five idioms or fixed expressions naturally.
Writing
Write a semi-formal blog paragraph (130–160 words) on the pros and cons of a technology, using four suitable idioms or fixed expressions.
Lesson quiz
“By and large” means…
Review
Key points
- Discussion idioms: double-edged sword, tip of the iceberg, grey area.
- Fixed expressions: by and large, to all intents and purposes.
- Binomials: fixed order.
- Check register.
What you learned
- ✓ I use C1 idioms accurately.
- ✓ I know fixed expressions and binomials.
- ✓ I match idioms to register.