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Let’s learn some drink idioms and expressions with all your favourite types of beverages.
Let’s kick off our drink idioms and expressions list with beer! That alcoholic drink us Brits drink by the bucket load.
meaning – a big stomach due to eating/drinking too much
example – We need to go on a diet after our holiday. We’ve got beer bellies.
meaning – alcohol makes people seem more attractive
example – I Facebook stalked the girl I pulled. I definitely had beer goggles on last night.
meaning – don’t be upset about something that has already happened/something you can’t change
example – I failed my exam. There’s no use crying over spilt milk, I can re-sit next year.
meaning – pretend to remain sick/hurt to continue getting the benefits
example – My sister has milked it all week, she’s only got a cough but had 5 days off school.
meaning – a luxurious lifestyle
example – My neighbour stole thousands from the council to fund a champagne lifestyle.
meaning – drink too much alcohol
example – I think Tara has a problem; she drinks like a fish.
meaning – pay attention, face reality
example – Wake up and smell the coffee. It must be Brian who has been stealing from you.
meaning – have a drink
example – Can we stop in the shop? I want a drink; I need to wet my whistle.
meaning – a cup of tea
example – I made the last brew, it’s your turn to make the next one.
meaning – totally useless
example – I hired a new guy, he’s as much use as a chocolate teapot.
meaning – there is nothing that will persuade you to do something, not for any price
example – I would never sell my classic car collection. Not for all the tea in China.
meaning – don’t like something
example – I’ve been to a few theme parks but they’re not my cup of tea. I hate heights and queues.
Let’s finish out drink idioms and expressions list with H2O, or water as it’s more commonly known.
meaning – family is more important than any other relationship
example – Do I go to my cousin’s wedding or a festival with my friends? Blood is thicker than water.
meaning – not functioning, has failed
example – Our idea is dead in the water, the boss said it’s not possible.
meaning – be cautious when starting something new
example – My brother loves painting. He’s just dipping his toe in the water at the moment.
meaning – in difficulty/trouble
example – I’ve been summoned to the school. Lilly is in deep water.
meaning – in a lot of trouble
example – I’ll be in hot water with my parents when they find out I’ve been skipping school.
meaning – survive in difficult times, especially with money
example – The first part of the year was difficult, now we’re keeping our heads above water.
meaning – feel uncomfortable in a certain situation
example – I felt like a fish out of water at Oxford university, everyone was posh but I’m not.
meaning – carelessly/wastefully spend money
example – You’ve got to stop spending money like water. You’ll never be able to afford a flat.
meaning – shy/quiet/calm people are often interesting
example – I spoke to Geeky Graham today. It’s true what they say, still waters run deep.
meaning – have a natural ability
example – Hayley has taken to motherhood like a duck to water. She is a natural.
meaning – try and find out people’s reaction before deciding to do something
example – A fund-raising day might be an option. I’ll test the water before arranging anything.
meaning – discourage, reduce enthusiasm
example – I hate my job; my boss is always throwing cold water on my ideas.
meaning – not progress towards a goal, stay in the same place
example – I’ve had the same job for 20 years; I’m just treading water.
meaning – new/unknown/unfamiliar
example – Graphic design is unchartered waters for me, but I’m willing to learn.
meaning – make something weaker or diluted
example – The comedian will probably water down his set as kids are allowed to go.
meaning – insults, criticism etc. have no effect on a person
example – All the criticism is like water off a duck’s back to Henry. He just tries even harder.
meaning – incidents in the past are no longer important
example – We didn’t speak for years, but it’s water under the bridge now.
