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An idiom (also called idiomatic expression) is an expression, word, or phrase that has a figurative meaning conventionally understood by native speakers. This meaning is different from the literal meaning of the idiom’s individual elements. In other words, idioms don’t mean exactly what the words say. They have, however, hidden meaning. 

For your IELTS Speaking test, idiomatic language can be important because it is one of the elements in this component of the test the examiner looks for.

The apple of one’s eye

Meaning 

Person or thing of whom one is extremely fond and proud. 

Origin 

Originally denoting the pupil of the eye, considered to be a globular solid body; hence extended as a symbol of something cherished and watched over. 

In a sentence 

Please don’t say anything negative about that painting as it’s the apple of Lisa’s eye.

Take someone aback

Meaning 

Shock, surprise or disconcert someone. 

Origin 

The frequently used passive form of the phrase (be taken aback) was adopted from a nautical terminology, describing the situation of a ship with its sails pressed back against the mast by headwind, preventing forward movement. 

In a sentence 

When I first met him, I was taken aback by his rude behaviour.

Back to the drawing board

Meaning 

Start again to devise a new plan from the beginning because the present plan or course of action has been unsuccessful. 

Origin 

An architectural or engineering project is at its earliest phase when it exists only as a plan on a drawing board. 

In a sentence 

Our plans to acquire the new business fell through, so it’s back to the drawing board.