Have you tried using idioms during review classes in your PTE review center? Did you see your instructor’s and classmates’ reactions? You may have seen them in awe because of your speech. Idioms exist in all languages. These are words or phrases that aren’t meant literally and are used to express thoughts more creatively.

Learn how you can utilize these words for your PTE preparation. Check out this list of idiomatic expressions.

1.  It takes two to tango – an activity that needs two people to take part

2.  Kill two birds with one stone – to accomplish two things at the same time

3.  Let the cat out of the bag – to share a secret

4.  Loose cannon – someone unpredictable and can cause harm if not kept in check

5.  Make a long story short – get straight to the point

6.  No pain, no gain – to work hard for what you want

7.  Off the hook – not to deal with hard situations

8.  Off the record – something said but should not be credited to the person

9.  On the same page – to agree with what is said

10.  Once in a blue moon – happens rarely

11.  A picture paints a thousand words – an image is better than describing with words

12.  Piece of cake – a task that is simple or easy

13.  Ring a bell – someone mentioned something that sounds familiar to you

14.  Sneak peek – get a glimpse at something before others

15.  Speaking of the devil – when a person you are talking about arrives

16.  Taste of your own medicine – things that happen to you that you have done to others.

17.  That’s the last straw – when you run out of patience

18.  Tie the knot – means to get married

19.  To cost an arm and a leg – something costly

20.  When pigs fly – something that will never happen

In your PTE review center, whenever you feel doubtful of the idiomatic expressions you used, you can try searching the meaning on the Internet. It is always better to be sure of the things you are sharing with others, for them not to misunderstand what you are telling them.

Incorrect: Melisa took a sneak peak at the new office earlier.

Correct: Melisa took a sneak peek at the new office earlier.

Use these idioms carefully, and sound like an expert in your speaking test. Also, be cautious not to overuse them.