What this list is for
This set is more conversation-focused. If you want idioms that feel closer to everyday speaking and listening, this collection is a practical place to continue.
More aligned with spoken and everyday communication
Useful for building recognition in natural context
Works well together with the common 20 starter list
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Open any idiom to view its meaning, example, and translation.
耳に挟む
みみにはさむ
to happen to hear something
目から鱗が落ちる
めからうろこがおちる
to have one’s eyes opened
口が重い
くちがおもい
to be reserved and not talkative
鼻が高い
はながたかい
to be proud
腹を割る
はらをわる
to speak frankly and openly
肩を持つ
かたをもつ
to take someone’s side
顔が広い
かおがひろい
to have a wide network of contacts
気が置けない
きがおけない
to feel at ease with someone
水を差す
みずをさす
to spoil the mood
釘を刺す
くぎをさす
to warn someone firmly in advance
猫をかぶる
ねこをかぶる
to put on an innocent act
気が散る
きがちる
to get distracted