These idioms are very useful in increasing your band score. Make sure you understand them properly before using them :)

IELTS Idioms

Meaning: a good thing which initially seemed bad

Example: “Last autumn my company made me redundant, but it turned out to be/it was a blessing in disguise, as I found my new dream job just a month later” .

Meaning: to have advantages from two contrasting options

Example: “In the afternoons, I often work from a co-working space where I have/get the best of both worlds; I work for myself but can bounce ideas off others".

Meaning: You can’t know what someone or something is like just by looking at the person or things appearance.

Example: He often wears old shabby shirts but don’t judge a book by its cover; he is a highly paid architect.

Meaning: In a very difficult situation where you have to choose between two equally unpleasant options.

Example: "I don't want to work at this horrible company, but I need the money to buy food for my children".

Meaning: To do something in the easiest, cheapest and fastest way (negative meaning).

Example: “Sometimes I would cut corners during my University studies, but it wasn't a good idea, I almost always failed".

Meaning: To continuously improve by practicing often.

Example: My teacher said that practice makes perfect with my English speaking, so I need to practice more.

Meaning: It's better to do something late than not to try it at all.

Example: I didn't know how to drive until I was 30, but better late than never and I've learnt now.