Not Maths, Just English!
Numbers are everywhere—in clocks, bank statements, and the dreaded calorie counter. But did you know they also sneak into everyday language in the form of idioms? From Back to square one to Perfect ten, these phrases add colour and character to English conversations.
Let’s explore 10 common idioms with numbers, what they mean, and how you can use them. No calculators needed—just a bit of fun!
1. Back to Square One
Meaning: Returning to the beginning after a failed attempt.
Example: "Our project got rejected, so now we’re back to square one!"
Ever feel like life has a reset button, but it only activates when things go wrong? That’s back to square one! This idiom originated from board games where players had to restart after making a mistake—very relatable for anyone who’s ever lost a game of Monopoly.
2. Two Heads Are Better Than One
Meaning: Working together leads to better results.
Example: "I was struggling with this crossword, but with your help, we solved it! Two heads are better than one."
This phrase is a great reminder that teamwork beats solo struggles—except when assembling flat-pack furniture. Then it’s just two people arguing over missing screws.
3. Third Time Lucky
Meaning: The third attempt is likely to succeed.
Example: "I failed my driving test twice, but third time lucky—I finally passed!"
This British version of Third time’s the charm is perfect for moments of perseverance. Or when repeatedly trying to get a vending machine to accept your crumpled banknote.
4. On All Fours
Meaning: Crawling or moving on hands and knees.
Example: "I dropped my phone under the sofa, so I was on all fours trying to reach it."
Often associated with babies, pets, or anyone looking for something they dropped in a dark cinema. Bonus points if you get stuck in that position.
5. Take Five
Meaning: A short break.
Example: "You’ve been working for hours—take five and grab a coffee!"
This phrase comes from the world of music, where musicians take brief pauses during rehearsals. In everyday life, it’s the perfect excuse to stop working and pretend to be productive while scrolling your phone.
6. At Sixes and Sevens
Meaning: In a state of confusion or disorder.
Example: "After the sudden power cut, the office was at sixes and sevens."
This delightfully British idiom dates back to the 14th century. It originally referred to risky gambling, but today, it describes any chaotic situation—like a toddler’s bedroom or your thoughts on a Monday morning.
7. Seventh Heaven
Meaning: A state of extreme happiness.
Example: "When I got tickets to see my favourite band, I was in seventh heaven!"
This phrase has religious origins, referring to the highest level of paradise. These days, it applies to anything that makes you ridiculously happy—like finding an extra chip at the bottom of the bag.
8. The Eighth Wonder of the World
Meaning: Something considered incredibly impressive or unique.
Example: "The way Grandma remembers everyone’s birthdays is the eighth wonder of the world!"
The Seven Wonders of the World are legendary, but this idiom lets you add your own marvels—like your ability to eat a whole pizza alone.
9. A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
Meaning: Fixing a small problem early prevents a bigger issue later.
Example: "I fixed the leaking tap before it flooded the kitchen—a stitch in time saves nine!"
This wise proverb is about tackling problems before they spiral out of control. A lesson many of us ignore until the car makes that noise.
10. Perfect Ten
Meaning: Something or someone flawless.
Example: "That dessert was a perfect ten—absolutely delicious!"
A phrase often used in competitions and rankings, but also handy for exaggerating how well you did at trivia night.
Want More Fun with English Idioms?
If you enjoyed this, why not watch the video version "10 Fun Idioms with Numbers" on our "English Phrase Collection" YouTube channel? Test yourself—how many of these idioms did you already know?
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