10 American English Idioms That Confuse the Rest of the World (and How to Use Them)
English is full of colorful expressions, but American English takes it to another level with idioms that can leave non-native speakers scratching their heads. These phrases often make zero literal sense, yet Americans use them all the time. Whether you’re learning English or just love language, here are 10 quirky American idioms—and how to use them in real conversations.
1. “Break the ice”
Meaning: To start a conversation in a socially awkward or tense situation.
In conversation:
“The meeting was so awkward until Jenna cracked a joke to break the ice.”
This has nothing to do with frozen water—just helping people feel comfortable!
2. “Hit the sack”
Meaning: Go to bed or go to sleep.
In conversation:
“I’m exhausted. I’m gonna hit the sack early tonight.”
No sacks were harmed in the making of this idiom.
3. “Bite the bullet”
Meaning: To do something unpleasant or painful that you’ve been avoiding.
In conversation:
“I hate going to the dentist, but I guess I have to bite the bullet.”
It originally referred to soldiers biting on bullets during surgery. Ouch.
4. “Spill the beans”
Meaning: Reveal a secret or surprise.
In conversation:
“Come on, spill the beans—did he propose or not?”
Why beans? No one knows, but once they’re spilled, the secret’s out.
5. “Let the cat out of the bag”
Meaning: Accidentally reveal a secret.
In conversation:
“I was trying to keep your surprise party a secret, but Emily let the cat out of the bag.”
Please don’t keep real cats in bags.
6. “Under the weather”
Meaning: Feeling sick or unwell.
In conversation:
“I’m feeling a bit under the weather today, so I’m staying home.”
No weather reports required—just rest and tea.
7. “Cost an arm and a leg”
Meaning: Something that’s very expensive.
In conversation:
“That new iPhone costs an arm and a leg!”
No limbs were exchanged in any Apple Store.
8. “Kick the bucket”
Meaning: A humorous or euphemistic way to say someone died.
In conversation:
“My goldfish finally kicked the bucket after five years.”
Yes, even fish get the idiomatic treatment.
9. “Barking up the wrong tree”
Meaning: Blaming the wrong person or pursuing the wrong course.
In conversation:
“If you think I took your charger, you’re barking up the wrong tree.”
Dogs and trees—classic combo, confusing meaning.
10. “Cold turkey”
Meaning: To quit something suddenly and completely.
In conversation:
“I quit smoking cold turkey last year.”
No turkeys were chilled in this expression—it’s all about going all in.
Final Thoughts
American English idioms are quirky, vivid, and often baffling if you take them literally. But that’s part of what makes the language so fun! Understanding these expressions can help you sound more natural in conversations and maybe even make your American friends do a double take when you use them correctly.
Got an idiom that is confusing you? Ask one of our teachers!
