Expressions
10 Holiday Idioms and Phrases
1. To beat the holiday blues
● Meaning: to overcome the stress and frustration resulting from holiday preparation or resulting from the need to get back to your usual routine after a holiday.
Example: When I want to beat the holiday blues I always think about the fact that soon it will be over.
2. Christmas came early (this year)
● Meaning: when someone receives some unexpected good news.
Example: Did you hear that Janice is pregnant? Christmas came early this year for her and Matthew.
3. The more the merrier
● Meaning: the more people or things there are, the better a given situation will be.
Example:
– Can I bring my grandma to the holiday party?
– Sure, the more the merrier.
4. Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle
● Meaning: don’t get stressed out trying to make Christmas perfect.
5. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth
● Meaning: don’t be ungrateful when you receive a present, even if it’s not exactly what you wanted
Example:
– Oh no, I don’t like historical novels.
– Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.
6. Good things come in small packages
● Meaning: the size of a gift doesn’t determine what’s inside; in the same way, a small person may have a big heart
Example: At first I was saddened by the size of my gift, but I thought to myself that good things come in small packages. I was not mistaken, because inside there were keys to a new car!
7. It’s the thought that counts
● Meaning: it’s the kindness behind an act that matters, however imperfect or insignificant it may be.
– Oh, I got another pair of socks. Couldn’t grandma care more about my Xmas presents?
– Don’t be picky. It’s the thought that counts.
8. The holiday spirit
● Meaning: excitement about the holiday.
Example: New Year isn’t here yet and I’m already feeling the holiday spirit.
9. Be my guest
● Meaning: a polite way to let someone know that they should help themselves to something.
Example:
– Do you mind if I get that last piece of the fruitcake?
– Be my guest.
10. Be there with bells on
● Meaning: said in response to an invitation and meaning you will happily go.
Example:
– Mom, will you come to my Christmas play at school?
– Of course, I will be there with bells on.