IELTS Idioms for Speaking
Updated 2 July 2026 · 2 min read · ieltspractice.app
Idioms can lift your Speaking score because they show you understand natural, everyday English. But they can just as easily hurt you if you force them or use them wrongly. The aim is not to cram in as many as possible; it is to drop a few natural ones in at the right moment. Here are useful idioms and, just as importantly, how to use them well.
Why idioms can help
The Speaking band descriptors reward natural, idiomatic language at the higher levels. A well-placed idiom shows you can use English the way fluent speakers actually do.
The key words are well-placed. One idiom used naturally is worth more than five forced ones, which sound rehearsed and can lower your score.
Everyday idioms that sound natural
over the moon (extremely happy): "I was over the moon when I got the job."
out of the blue (unexpectedly): "She called me out of the blue after years."
a piece of cake (very easy): "The exam was a piece of cake once I had practised."
Idioms for opinions and habits
to be on the fence (undecided): "I'm on the fence about living in a big city."
once in a blue moon (very rarely): "I eat out once in a blue moon."
to get the hang of it (to learn something): "It was hard at first, but I got the hang of it."
How to use idioms safely
Only use idioms you fully understand and can pronounce comfortably. If you are unsure of the meaning, leave it out.
Let them come up naturally in answers, especially in Part 1 and Part 2 where you talk about everyday life. Do not force an idiom into a serious Part 3 discussion where it does not fit.
Quick check
Test yourself — tap an answer to see if you are right.
1. What does over the moon mean?
2. How should you use idioms in Speaking?
3. What should you do with an idiom you are unsure of?
Frequently asked questions
Do idioms improve my Speaking score?
They can, because natural idiomatic language is rewarded at the higher bands. But only when used correctly and naturally; forced idioms can lower your score.
How many idioms should I use?
Just a few, used naturally. One well-placed idiom is worth more than several forced ones that sound memorised.
Where should I use idioms?
Mostly in Part 1 and Part 2, where you talk about everyday life. Use them carefully in Part 3, where a more measured tone often fits better.
What if I am not sure what an idiom means?
Do not use it. An idiom used wrongly stands out and can hurt your score, so stick to the ones you know well.
Sources
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