Idioms for September

During September many children return to school. There are many interesting and fun idioms which are inspired by learning. Let’s look at some:

1. “PUT / GET YOUR THINKING CAP ON”

Meaning:
To engage your mind and think in a serious manner.

Example:
“Right, we need to figure out how we’re going to solve this problem before mum and dad get back, so let’s put our thinking caps on!”

2. “DRAW A BLANK”

Meaning:
To get no response from someone when they are asked a question.

Example:
“I asked him about his plans for Christmas, but I just drew a blank. He didn’t seem to understand what I was asking him!”

3.“BACK TO BASICS”

Meaning:
An approach that uses traditional ideas and methods which have been successful in the past.

Example:
“They seem to prefer having everything back to basics in their school. They have minimal use of advanced technology, but apparently find everything simpler and easier to manage.”

4. “AS EASY AS ABC”

Meaning:
Something that is very simple or easy.

Example:
“That jigsaw puzzle is as easy as ABC, I don’t understand why you’ve been struggling with it for so long.”

5. “COVER A LOT OF GROUND”

Meaning:
When a lot of work needs to be completed. If there is a lot of research to be done, or material to get through.

Example:
“Our class has done so well over the past two weeks, we’ve managed to cover so much ground that I feel they may be ready by the end of this month!”
“We have to complete our studies within the next month. We still have a lot of ground to cover, and I fear we may not get everything done in time.”