This mini-lesson contains common Christmas and holiday idioms and expressions.

Holiday Idioms & Expressions 🎄 🎅

to decorate a Christmas tree with ornaments and lights

A: Can you get the ornaments down from the attic?
B: Okay. I guess it’s time to trim the tree.

to quit a bad habit all at once (not over time)

A: Who wants a glass of wine with dinner?
B: Not me. I quit cold turkey. I haven’t had a drink since last New Year’s Eve.

something people say when they are feeling grumpy about the Christmas holidays

A: It’s time to put up the Christmas lights!
B: Bah, humbug! The hockey game is on.

a person who is cheap or unkind at Christmastime

A: Don’t be a Scrooge! Put your coins in the jar for the homeless.
B: I need this for coffee money tomorrow.

a positive feeling that people have during the Christmas season

A: How is the Christmas shopping going?
B: Not good. I can’t get into the holiday spirit this year.

to not point out flaws about a gift or free item

A: This box of candy the neighbors gave us has too much dark chocolate.
B: Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth!

(to have) a full feeling inside your body after you eat a large meal

A: Would you like some more turkey?
B: No thanks, I’m stuffed.

a small gift or treat placed inside a Christmas stocking (large sock) on Christmas Eve

A: I like your keychain.
B: Thanks, it was a stocking stuffer.

a Christmas Day or season when there is snow on the ground or snow falling

A: I hope we have a white Christmas this year.
B: Me too! Last year it rained during the Christmas holidays.

to be unable to leave a building due to a snowstorm/blizzard

A: I’m afraid we won’t be able to come to the party tonight.
B: Don’t worry. We’re going to cancel it. Everyone is snowed in.

everyone is welcome; the more people who come, the better it will be

A: Can Ella and Josiah come for dinner on Christmas Eve?
B: Sure. The more the merrier.