Homophones, idioms and proverbs Flashcards
What are homophones?
Words that usually have different spellings and different meanings, but sound the same
Give two examples of homophones
wood, would
know, no
What is an idiom?
A group of words that has a specific meaning when the words are used together
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘nest egg’?
Savings for the future
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘take a rain check’?
Refusing an invitation now, but agreeing to accept another in the future
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘put a sock in it ‘?
An impolite way to tell a noisy person to keep quiet
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ let the cat out of the bag’?
To let slip a secret without intending to
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ hold your horses’?
Slow down and be patient
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ when pigs fly’?
Something that will never happen
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ smell a rat’?
To suspect someone is doing something wrong
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ let sleeping dogs lie’?
Leave a situation alone to avoid conflict
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ in your face’?
When someone is aggressive towards you and can’t be ignored
What is the meaning of the idiom: ‘ knock on wood’?
Tapping on wood in the belief that it will bring good luck
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘A stitch in time saves nine ‘?
If something needs to be done, do it straight away because it will save you time later on
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘Don’t upset the applecart’?
Don’t change a situation when things are going well
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘Make hay while the sun shines’?
When the timing is good take advantage of an opportunity
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘A leopard doesn’t change its spots ‘?
A person doesn’t change their behaviour
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘ Two heads are better than one ‘?
Working with another person helps
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘If the shoe fits, wear it ‘?
If you are responsible for something take responsibility for it
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘You can’t teach an old dog new tricks ‘?
Older people don’t learn as easily as young people
What is the meaning of the proverb: ‘birds of a feather flock together ‘?
People who are similar enjoy spending time together
What is a proverb?
An old saying that gives advice or shares information that most people believe is true
