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.
Jump (or climb) on the bandwagon
Meaning
Join others in doing or supporting something fashionable or likely to be successful.
Origin
Bandwagon was originally the US term for a large wagon able to carry a band in a procession.
In a sentence
When your TV show does extremely well, advertisers will be competing to be the first to jump on the bandwagon.
At someone’s beck and call
Meaning
Always having to be ready to obey someone’s orders immediately.
Origin
Beck in the sense of “significant gesture of command” comes from the verb beck, which is shortened form of beckon and is now found mainly in this phrase.
In a sentence
She is going to be confined to a wheelchair for the next three weeks, but she’s not complaining as she will have a nurse at her beck and call.
Bed of nails
Meaning
A problematic or uncomfortable situation.
Origin
Originally a board with nails pointing out of it, as used by Eastern fakirs and ascetics.
In a sentence
My parents are very judgmental and living with them can be a bed of nails.