This is lesson 11 from Idiom Part 3. Each idiom is followed by its definition and examples. After you learn them, you can use them in your daily conversation.
Previous English Idiom Lesson
In our previous English idiom lesson, we cover below:
English Idiom Part 3- Lesson 11- Idioms about Good or Bad Qualities
1- What is the good of doing/buying… = Used to express that something seems pointless or not beneficial.
What is the good of buying a new phone if you don’t even use the one you have?
2- It’s as good as new = Something is in excellent condition, almost like it hasn’t been used.
After he repaired my laptop, it’s as good as new.
3- Good for you = Used to express approval or congratulations.
You got promoted? Good for you!
4- To the best of my knowledge = As far as I know or am aware.
To the best of my knowledge, the meeting is still scheduled for tomorrow.
5- It’s probably for the best = Something may seem unfortunate now but will lead to a better outcome.
She didn’t get the job, but it’s probably for the best that she found a better one later.
6- I was not feeling at my best = Not feeling physically or mentally well.
I didn’t go to the gym because I was not feeling at my best.
7- Bring out the best in someone = To make someone perform or behave better.
Her supportive coaching style really brings out the best in her students.
8- At the best of times = Even in the most favorable conditions, often used negatively.
He’s grumpy at the best of times, so don’t expect him to smile today.
9- Make the best of a bad job = Try to be positive or do well in a bad situation.
The weather ruined our plans, but we decided to make the best of a bad job and have fun indoors.
10- In a very bad way/condition = Someone is seriously ill or in trouble.
After the accident, my friend was in a very bad way.
11- Ignore someone’s bad behavior = Deliberately not respond to someone’s inappropriate actions.
Sometimes the best thing to do is to ignore someone’s bad behavior rather than react.
12- No bad thing = Something might be beneficial even if it doesn’t seem so at first.
Losing that job turned out to be no bad thing, he finally pursued his passion.
13- It’s not all it’s cracked up to be = It is not as good as people say it is.
The movie was hyped everywhere, but honestly, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be.
14- It isn’t up to scratch = It doesn’t meet the expected standard.
His essay isn’t up to scratch, so he’ll need to rewrite it.
15- It leaves a lot to be desired = It is not very good or satisfactory.
The customer service at that restaurant leaves a lot to be desired.
16- It’s on its last legs = Something is very old or near failure.
My laptop is on its last legs, and I really need a new one.
17- It has seen better days = Something is worn out or in poor condition due to age or use.
This jacket has seen better days, but I still wear it around the house.
18- In a league of its own = Much better than anything else of its kind.
Her performance was in a league of its own absolutely stunning.
19- In mint condition = In perfect condition, like new.
He sold me a vintage comic book in mint condition.
20- Miles better = A lot better than something else.
This year’s design is miles better than last year’s.
21- Head and shoulders above the rest = Far superior to others.
Among all the candidates, she was head and shoulders above the rest.
Next English Idiom Lesson
In our next English idiom lesson, we cover below:
Related Idioms
Here is the list of idioms related to this lesson.
Idiom Part 3 Outline
If you wish to explore all lessons that are covered in HiCafe Idiom Part 3, you can visit the Essential and Popular English idioms- Part 3 page.
English Fluency Resources
If you like to read all of lessons related to English expressions, phrases, idioms, proverbs, slang and words, you can visit our Improve English Fluency page.
