Want to sound more natural when speaking English? Here are some everyday expressions that will help you blend in with native speakers:

 

1. «It’s raining cats and dogs»

Meaning: It’s raining very heavily

Spanish equivalent: «Está lloviendo a cántaros»

 

2. «I’m knackered»

Meaning: I’m very tired

In Spanish: «Estoy agotado/a»

 

3. «That’s a piece of cake»

Meaning: Something is very easy to do

Spanish equivalent: «Es pan comido»

 

4. «I’m over the moon»

Meaning: I’m extremely happy

In Spanish: «Estoy que no quepo en mí de gozo»

 

5. «It’s not my cup of tea»

Meaning: It’s not something I like or enjoy

Spanish equivalent: «No es lo mío»

 

6. «Break a leg!»

Meaning: Good luck! (often used in performing arts)

In Spanish: «¡Mucha mierda!» (in theatre contexts)

 

7. «Let’s call it a day»

Meaning: Let’s stop working and go home

Spanish equivalent: «Vamos a dar el día por terminado»

 

8. «You’re pulling my leg»

Meaning: You’re joking or teasing me

In Spanish: «Me estás tomando el pelo»

 

9. «It cost an arm and a leg»

Meaning: It was very expensive

Spanish equivalent: «Costó un ojo de la cara»

 

10. «I’m feeling under the weather»

Meaning: I’m feeling a bit ill

In Spanish: «Me siento un poco pachucho/a»

 

Using these expressions in your everyday English will help you sound more natural and fluent. Remember, context is key, so pay attention to when and how native speakers use these phrases.

¡Ánimo con tu inglés, y pronto estarás hablando como un nativo!

Written by Aimee Wilkinson, Principal at The Harrogate International Academy