15 Funny Idioms You Can Use Today

A familiar figure of speech or metaphor whose content cannot be taken literally is an idiom. Despite being frequently employed by native speakers of the language, idioms defy the logical “laws of language and grammar.” Most phrases have literal meanings that are often humorous if close attention is paid to them. Here is a collection of some of the funniest idioms in English that might sound unfamiliar and come from British English. Let’s learn how to speak like a typical Brit!

1.   Try The Devon Loch

Devon Loch, a racehorse, passed out seconds before crossing the finish line of the UK Grand National in 1956.

For instance, how Manchester United pulled a Devon Loch in the dying seconds of the game against Arsenal was scary.

2. Your Uncle Bob

This idiom is a catchphrase used when “all is okay” and denotes a task’s completion, resolution, or achievement.

You wish to visit the market, for instance. Continue straight until you reach the main road, then turn right at the intersection—Bob’s your uncle. You’ve made it!

3. Run A Race

When someone runs, they depart quickly to avoid paying for something (like in a restaurant) or exit a challenging circumstance to avoid punishment.

Example: After taking all of her money, the con artist fled.

4. Sufficient To Pawn Off Dogs With

This absurd expression is used to describe something in excess. The humor in the phrase’s image becomes apparent when you realize that a cobbler fixes shoes.

For instance: The beer at this party is sufficient to make cobbler.

5. Drop Off A Truck’s Rear

This idiom is a joking British expression that means you either bought something that was probably stolen or is trying to sell something that is probably stolen or illegal.

Example: I have no idea where you acquire this stuff, for instance. I think it came from a truck.

6. Hairy At The Heel

This derogatory term was first used by the upper class of the British population to describe someone uneducated, dangerous, or unreliable. The idea of a hairy heel is amusing.

For example, I can’t say that I like Bob. I’ve argued with him once or twice. He has some hair around his heels.

7.   Cat’s Arse

The expression a spurned lady occasionally wears is the lowly cat’s arse, called initially “felinus bottoms” by the ancient Greeks.

Bob, for instance, won’t accompany us to the pub because he fears his wife will give him the “Cats Arse” if he does.

8. Donkey’s Years

This British saying playfully references the long years. If you have been doing something for donkey’s years, you have been doing it for a very long period with little to show.

I’ve been a plumber for donkey’s years, for instance. So the time for a shift has come.

9. Talk Only; No Action

A person who is all talk and no action speaks a lot about accomplishing big, significant things but doesn’t do anything.

Example: Exercise caution. Politicians have a reputation for being all talk and no action.

10. Please Excuse My French

“Excuse my French,” or “Pardon my French,” is a colloquial way of saying you’re sorry for using a swear word or another offensive language. The phrase first appeared in the 19th century, when it was common for Englishmen to speak in French, a foreign language at the time, even though they knew their listeners might not understand them.

Example: Excuse my French, but she needs a kick in the ass.

11. Pigs Can Fly

No pig can fly. In the US, friends frequently use this sarcastic expression to express that whatever they talk about will never happen.

For example: Yep, that’s right, When pigs fly, Justin Bieber will ask you out on a date!

12. The Tongue Of The Cat

Imagine biting your tongue or being eaten by a cat! Do you have the ability to speak? No, most likely not. The phrase implies just that. You are mute as if a cat bit your tongue. Your lack of response is oddly suspicious. The expression dates back to the Middle Ages when witches were a big deal.

Example: Bob, hurry up! Let us know what you think of our mini celebration. What is the issue? Got your tongue on a cat?

13. One-Track Your Thinking!

Most railroads have two or more tracks for trains to travel in different directions. Train traffic, however, can only move in one way at a time on a one-track railroad line.

Say this instead, Sean: You have a one-track mind; all you think about is eating.

14. Savor The Fat

This term denotes amicable, relaxed conversation or unofficial gossip sessions.

John grinned and said, “The women have gone to one of their friend’s houses to chew the fat.

15. Like Swiss Cheese With More Holes

Swiss cheese is firm, light yellow, or white and has numerous holes despite being excellent.

Mary, you can perform better. Swiss cheese has fewer holes than this essay has.