10 Common Sayings in British English

Hi everyone,

This week in the British English Immersion Club we’re speaking all about holidays and travel ✈️ — so I thought I’d share 10 common sayings that you’ll hear in everyday British English. These aren’t formal phrases; they’re the kind of language that makes you sound natural and fluent.

1. Better late than never
(It’s better to do something late than not do it at all)
💬 He finally sent me the message — better late than never!

2. Break the ice
(To start a conversation and make people feel more comfortable)
💬 I told a joke to break the ice at the party.

3. The ball is in your court
(It’s your turn to make a decision or take action)
💬 I’ve made my offer — now the ball is in your court.

4. Burn the midnight oil
(To work late into the night)
💬 She’s been burning the midnight oil to finish her essay.

5. Call it a day
(To stop working for the day)
💬 We’ve done enough — let’s call it a day.

6. Costs an arm and a leg
(Something is very expensive)
💬 That hotel costs an arm and a leg during summer.

7. In hot water
(In trouble)
💬 He was in hot water after forgetting his anniversary.

8. Keep an eye on something
(To watch or monitor something carefully)
💬 Can you keep an eye on my bag while I go to the bathroom?

9. On the same page
(To agree or have the same understanding)
💬 Let’s meet before the event to make sure we’re on the same page.

10. Under the weather
(Feeling slightly ill)
💬 I’m feeling a bit under the weather, so I’ll stay home today.

💬 A Dialogue Using All 10 Sayings

Emma: Hey, you’re late!
James: Better late than never, right?

Emma: True. Anyway, thanks for telling that joke earlier — it really broke the ice.
James: No problem. So, about the holiday plans, the ball is in your court now.

Emma: I know, I’ve been burning the midnight oil researching hotels.
James: Well, maybe we should call it a day and look again tomorrow.

Emma: Yeah, especially since the one I liked costs an arm and a leg.
James: Ouch! Book that and you’ll be in hot water with your bank account.

Emma: True — can you keep an eye on these brochures while I get a coffee?
James: Sure. Let’s meet later to check we’re on the same page.

Emma: Deal. Oh, and if I don’t come tomorrow, I’m probably under the weather.
James: Fair enough.

If you want to learn more natural expressions like these, practise speaking with other motivated learners, and get feedback from me in real time, join the British English Immersion Club.

📅 This week’s topic: Holidays & Travel ✈️
💼 Small group classes (choose from 15 times per week)
🎯 Bonus Business & Exam lessons included
💳 €60/month

👉 Sign up here: https://www.englishwithlewis.com/buy

See you in class,
Lewis