Learn common metaphors to use in spoken English

Metaphors 101: Common metaphors in English!

Time is valuable and should not be wasted.
Example: I can’t sit around all day, time is money!

To start a conversation in a social situation.
Example: Telling a funny story helped break the ice at the party.

Life is like a performance where people play roles.
Example: He acts confident in public, but the world is a stage.

To study hard.
Example: I need to hit the books if I want to pass my exams.

A person who is emotionally cold or unfeeling.
Example: She had a heart of stone and didn’t cry at the sad movie.

Hope or relief after a difficult time.
Example: After months of hard work, I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Only a small part of a much larger problem or situation.
Example: The complaints we received are just the tip of the iceberg.

Something that makes you think deeply.
Example: His lecture on climate change gave us a lot of food for thought.

A lazy person who spends a lot of time sitting.
Example: Don’t be such a couch potato, go outside and get some exercise!

Deep sadness caused by loss or disappointment, often romantic.
Example: She had a broken heart after her boyfriend moved away.

It’s your decision or responsibility to act.
Example: I’ve done all I can, now the ball is in your court.

Staying up late to work or study.
Example: She was burning the midnight oil to finish her project on time.

Experiencing many different emotions quickly.
Example: Watching that movie was a roller-coaster of emotions.

To connect two different groups, ideas, or situations.
Example: The program was created to bridge the gap between students and teachers.