This week, Harrogate, as well as much of the UK, saw its first snow of the year. An early morning walk across the famous Stray inspired thoughts about English expressions relating to snow and winter in general. Here are some winter themed expressions. 

Snowed Under

The idiom snowed under means to be overwhelmed or extremely busy with work, tasks, or responsibilities. It originates from the idea of being buried under a heavy snowfall, making it difficult to move or manage. When someone says they are «snowed under,» they are expressing that they have so much to do that it feels overwhelming or difficult to keep up. 

Break the Ice

The idiom break the ice means to start a conversation or activity in a social setting to ease tension or awkwardness, especially when people are meeting for the first time or when the atmosphere feels uncomfortable. 

Cold as Ice

The idiom cold as ice describes someone who is emotionally distant, unfeeling, or lacking warmth and compassion. It suggests a person who appears detached, indifferent, or unsympathetic in their interactions with others. It can also describe someone who remains calm and composed, especially under pressure, without showing vulnerability or emotion. 

Snowball Effect 

The idiom snowball effect describes a situation where something starts small but grows progressively larger, more significant, or harder to control over time, much like a snowball rolling downhill and collecting more snow as it goes. This idiom emphasises how minor actions or events can lead to significant consequences when left unchecked. 

On Thin Ice 

The idiom on thin ice means being in a risky, dangerous, or precarious situation where a mistake or wrong move could lead to serious consequences. It suggests that someone is in a vulnerable position, much like standing on actual thin ice that could crack and break at any moment. 

Do you know any expressions that are inspired by winter? 

Written by Rob Darlington at The Harrogate International Academy