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
