The English language is full of expressions relating to animals. Here are a few that you might hear whilst travelling or talking to English-speaking friends:

1. The elephant in the room

A major problem that people are avoiding talking about.

“We need to talk about the elephant in the room.”

2. Raining cats and dogs

When it is raining heavily.

“It’s raining cats and dogs out there!”

3. Let the cat out of the bag

Reveal a secret.

“Sam let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party.”

4. Fish out of water

Feeling out of place or uncomfortable in a situation.

“This city is too big. I feel like a fish out of water.”

5. Busy as a bee

Working hard of being very busy.

“I’ve been as busy as a bee all day.”

6. The lion’s share

The largest part of something.

“Eric took the lion’s share of the pizza.”

7. Like a bull in a china shop

Being clumsy or reckless.

“Stop running around like a bull in a china shop.”

8. Cry wolf

Ask for help when it’s not needed.

“Don’t cry wolf or people won’t help when you really need it.”

9. Hold your horses

Slow down, pause for a moment or be patient.

“Hold your horses, I’m coming.”

10. Take the bull by the horns

Take on a task or situation directly.

“You have to take the bull by the horns and do it.”

These animals idioms can add colour to your language and are often used in everyday conversation. Master these and you’ll be speaking like a native!

Written by Rob Darlington at The Harrogate International Academy