General English · Speaking · C1
Using idiomatic language appropriately
Use familiar figurative expressions sparingly and explain them when clarity requires it.
Lesson 10 · About 22 minutes
Learn: your objectives
- Choose an expression that fits meaning and register.
- Paraphrase an idiom for an unfamiliar listener.
Warm-up
Think about these questions. Say a short answer aloud.
- When can an idiom make speech less clear?
- What does ‘on the same page’ mean in a meeting?
Useful language
Useful, not decorative
on the same page
Sharing an understanding; common in conversational work settings.
Before we start, let's check we're on the same page about the deadline.
a sticking point
An issue preventing agreement or progress.
The only sticking point is who will maintain the equipment.
take a step back
Pause to consider the wider picture.
Let's take a step back and ask what problem we're solving.
Notice: model speaking
Read aloud. Notice how the speakers use the phrases and respond to each other.
Jo: I think we're on the same page about the aim, but maintenance is still a sticking point.
Aziza: Sorry, what do you mean by a sticking point?
Jo: The issue we haven't resolved—the question of who will look after the equipment.
Aziza: Right. Perhaps we should clarify the tasks before choosing a person.
Jo: Agreed. Let's take a step back and list what maintenance actually involves. We may be imagining different amounts of work.
Speaking strategy
Use an idiom only when it expresses your meaning naturally for this audience. If it causes confusion, give a plain paraphrase rather than adding another idiom to explain it.
Pronunciation & fluency focus
Practise the expression as a phrase, with stress on the meaningful word: ‘a STICKING point’. Do not overperform it or pause as if showing off a new expression.
Teaching guidance, not an analysis of your voice.
Use: controlled practice
Choose a useful response for each situation. Check when all questions are answered. These are phrase exercises, not a speaking assessment.
Build your answer
Write a few keywords. Then look away and speak. Notes stay on this page only.
Speak: your challenge
Role-play a three-minute discussion using two familiar idiomatic expressions appropriately. Have one listener ask for clarification, explain plainly and continue without turning the exchange into an idiom lesson.
These expressions are options, not a checklist for sounding advanced.
Speak aloud. This page does not record, listen to or assess your speech. There is no automatic speaking score.
Self-check
Open to everyone. Answers, notes and checklists are not saved to an account. These original lessons use level labels to organize learning; completion is not official CEFR certification or proof of a level.