IELTS Band 7+ Idioms: A Curated Collection for Test-Takers

Mastering IELTS Band 7+ idioms is crucial for test-takers aiming for a higher Lexical Resource score, often the difference between a Band 6 and a Band 7 or above. These phrases are especially useful for demonstrating sophisticated vocabulary in Speaking Part 3 and for maintaining a formal register in Writing Task 2. By learning these expressions, you will communicate more naturally and confidently. Examiners will recognize your advanced command of English, helping you achieve your target band.

• All in the same boat

  Everyone involved in a particular situation is facing the same difficulties or challenges together.

  With the company's funding cut, all of us in the research department are all in the same boat, trying to make do with less.

• Bite the hand that feeds you

  To act with ingratitude or hostility towards someone who provides you with support, sustenance, or assistance.

  After all the sacrifices his parents made, moving out and immediately cutting off all communication was truly biting the hand that feeds you.

• Come hell or high water

  Regardless of any obstacles or extreme difficulties, a promised action will be performed or a goal will be achieved.

  I will finish this project by Friday, come hell or high water, no matter how many late nights it takes.

• Cut corners

  To do something in the easiest, cheapest, or fastest way, often by omitting important steps or reducing quality.

  The builder was accused of cutting corners to save money on the construction project.

• Every cloud has a silver lining

  Even difficult or unpleasant situations have some positive aspect.

  Losing my job was tough, but every cloud has a silver lining, and I found a role I truly love.

• Get a Taste of Your Own Medicine

  To experience the same unpleasant treatment or consequences that one has inflicted upon others.

  After constantly criticizing his colleagues' work, the manager finally got a taste of his own medicine when his own project was harshly reviewed.

• Kill two birds with one stone

  To achieve two objectives or solve two problems with a single action or effort.

  By taking the express train, she could kill two birds with one stone: arrive at the meeting on time and finish her presentation during the commute.

• Leave no stone unturned

  To make every possible effort and investigate every possibility in order to achieve a goal or find something.

  The detective promised the family he would leave no stone unturned in finding the missing child.

• The pot calling the kettle black

  This phrase describes a situation where someone criticizes another for a fault that the criticizer also possesses.

  My brother complained about me being late, but that's the pot calling the kettle black since he's always tardy himself.

• Through thick and thin

  To remain steadfastly loyal and supportive during both good times and difficult periods.

  Their friendship has endured for decades, proving they truly stick together through thick and thin.