Blog by: Ms Atiya Altaf
English SL
English expressions aren’t random — they have fascinating origins!
Find out about them in our latest bloag post:
As an English teacher, one of my favorite moments in class is when a student raises their hand and asks, “Miss, why do we say that?”
It reminds me that language isn’t just about spelling and grammar — it’s about curiosity, history, and discovery.
Teaching English has shown me that children love uncovering the hidden stories behind words and phrases. The excitement on their faces when they learn that “butterflies in my stomach” has nothing to do with real butterflies is usually the highlight of my day.
English is full of strange and wonderful expressions. We use them every day without thinking about where they came from.
Let’s explore a few and discover the fascinating stories behind them!
1. “Break the ice”
When people meet for the first time, things can feel a little awkward. We say someone should “break the ice” to help everyone feel comfortable.
A long time ago, ships had to literally break ice in frozen rivers so other boats could pass. So now, “breaking the ice” means making things easier between people!
2. “Butterflies in my stomach”
Of course there aren’t real butterflies inside you.
This describes that nervous, wiggly feeling you get before a test, a school play, or even talking to someone new. Your tummy feels fluttery — just like butterfly wings.
3. “Raining cats and dogs”
This doesn’t mean pets are falling from the sky!
Hundreds of years ago in England, heavy rainstorms often made streets so messy that even animals sometimes got washed along. People joked that it must be “raining cats and dogs,” and the phrase stuck.
4. “Hold your horses”
Before cars were invented, people traveled by horse-drawn carts. If someone was in a rush, you told them to “hold your horses!” — in other words, slow down and wait a moment.
5. “Spill the beans”
When someone shares a secret, we say they “spilled the beans.” In ancient Greece, people voted by putting beans in jars. If someone accidentally tipped the jar over, the secret vote was revealed!
Why are these expressions important?
They make language exciting!
Instead of saying “Don’t be nervous,” you can say “Got butterflies in your stomach?”
Instead of “Calm down,” you can say “Hold your horses!”
They add personality, history, and sometimes even humor to our words.
In my classroom, I love showing students that English is more than just words on a page — it’s a world of stories waiting to be uncovered.
Your Turn!
What’s an expression you’ve heard that sounds funny?
● “Let the cat out of the bag”?
● “A piece of cake”?
● “Hit the books”?
Ask your parents or teachers what it really means — and maybe where it came from! Then try using it in a sentence today.