Idioms using animals

It is often difficult to understand Idioms and to use them correctly. Idioms are a great way to communicate and can help you to sound more native.

In British English, it is common to use idioms that feature animals. These idioms are often used to talk about people.

Maybe you have heard these idioms but have not been confident enough to use them.

When we know what an idiom means then we can be confident using it.

For example, when we take an exam the examiner will watch us like a hawk so that we don't cheat. To prepare for the exam we should have worked like a dog.
Sometimes I don't want to go to school so I walk as slow as a snail but my best friend, who wouldn't hurt a fly, always finds a way to make me speed up and be on time for school.

Sometimes we need to think outside the box and get creative to understand idioms.
Can you match these pictures to their idioms?

Firstly look at the picture and try to describe what it might mean or what is happening in each picture. Hint: Emotions are often key to understanding idioms.

For example, the happy ladies in picture (A) are probably doing two things at the same time.
The person in picture (B)might be feeling left out. The man in picture (C) is using his imagination and the two girls in picture (D) are whispering secrets and being silly.

This information might help you to logically match some of these idioms but not all. If you would like a native British teacher to help you understand then please book a lesson with me.

I use high-quality lesson materials to help my students develop their English. My idiom lessons are designed for upper intermediate and advanced adult students only.

Try these then check out the answers.