Idioms and Phrases Every JENPAS UG 2025 Candidate Should Know

Break the ice

To initiate a conversation in a social setting

The teacher told a joke to break the ice on the first day of class.

A blessing in disguise

Something good that is not recognised at first

Failing the mock test was a blessing in disguise; it helped me identify my weaknesses.

Cut corners

To do something the easiest or cheapest way

Never cut corners when preparing for competitive exams.

In hot water

In trouble

He was in hot water for missing the exam.

Let the cat out of the bag

To reveal a secret

He let the cat out of the bag about her surprise party

On cloud nine

Extremely happy

She was on cloud nine after clearing the exam

Piece of cake

Something very easy

The English section was a piece of cake.

Call it a day

To stop working for the day

After solving 5 practice papers, I decided to call it a day.

Under the weather

Not feeling well

I was under the weather during the last mock test.

Once in a blue moon

Very rarely

He studies only once in a blue moon.

Face the music

Accept the consequences of your actions

He had to face the music after skipping his classes.

The ball is in your court

It is your decision or responsibility

I have given you the advice; now the ball is in your court.

Sit on the fence

To be undecided

She is sitting on the fence about which course to choose.

Miss the boat

Miss an opportunity

If you delay applying, you might miss the boat.

Read between the lines

Understand the hidden meaning

You need to read between the lines to understand the poem.

Let the cat out of the bag

To reveal a secret

He let the cat out of the bag about her surprise party.

Throw in the towel

To give up

Do not throw in the towel just yet; keep trying.

In the nick of time

Just in time

I submitted the form in the nick of time.

Pull someone’s leg

To joke or tease

Do not worry, he was just pulling your leg.

Hit the books

To begin studying seriously

With the exam just a week away, I need to hit the books.