Writing is more than just putting words on paper. It’s an art, a skill, and sometimes even a journey of self-expression. Idioms are phrases that convey a meaning different from the literal words, and they add color, emotion, and depth to your writing.
Using idioms related to writing can make your sentences more engaging, relatable, and impactful. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone who enjoys creative writing, learning these idioms can give your English a natural flow and flair.
In this article, we’ll explore over 45 idioms related to writing, their meanings, practical examples, similar idioms, and tips on using them in everyday life. By the end, you’ll be ready to sprinkle your writing with expressions that make it shine.
Did You Know? 📝
The idiom “pen is mightier than the sword” dates back to 1839 and was coined by English author Edward Bulwer-Lytton. It shows that words and ideas can have more influence than violence or force.
On the Writing Process
1. Break the ice
Meaning: To start a conversation or writing in a friendly, engaging way.
Example: I started my essay with a funny story to break the ice.
Similar Idiom: Get the ball rolling
Note: Used in informal or professional writing to introduce topics casually.
2. Dot your i’s and cross your t’s
Meaning: To pay close attention to details.
Example: Before submitting your report, make sure you dot your i’s and cross your t’s.
Similar Idiom: Leave no stone unturned
Note: Common in formal writing, editing, and proofreading.
3. Put pen to paper
Meaning: To start writing something.
Example: I finally put pen to paper and wrote the first chapter of my book.
Similar Idiom: Get started
Note: Often used for creative or professional writing.
4. Call it a day
Meaning: To stop working, often after completing writing.
Example: After finishing the article, I decided to call it a day.
Similar Idiom: Wrap it up
Note: Informal; used in daily life or work settings.
5. In black and white
Meaning: Something written down clearly, leaving no doubt.
Example: The rules were written in black and white to avoid confusion.
Similar Idiom: Put in writing
Note: Used in legal, professional, or formal documents.
Creativity and Expression in Writing
6. Brainstorm ideas
Meaning: To think of many ideas before writing.
Example: We spent an hour brainstorming ideas for the blog post.
Similar Idiom: Bounce ideas around
Note: Informal; widely used in classrooms and team projects.
7. On the back of an envelope
Meaning: Something written quickly or informally.
Example: He jotted the plan on the back of an envelope.
Similar Idiom: Jot down
Note: Informal; common for notes or quick drafts.
8. Write between the lines
Meaning: To understand the hidden meaning of a text.
Example: You have to write between the lines to understand the teacher’s advice.
Similar Idiom: Read between the lines
Note: Useful in analytical writing or discussions.
9. Word of mouth
Meaning: Sharing ideas through speaking or informal writing.
Example: The story spread by word of mouth before it was published online.
Similar Idiom: Gossip, buzz
Note: Informal; often used in marketing or storytelling.
10. Put your thoughts into words
Meaning: To express your ideas clearly in writing.
Example: She struggled to put her thoughts into words for the article.
Similar Idiom: Express yourself
Note: Helpful for creative writing or personal expression.
Writing Challenges and Effort
11. Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: To describe something exactly right in writing.
Example: Your introduction hits the nail on the head.
Similar Idiom: Spot on
Note: Formal and informal; perfect for feedback or critique.
12. Get the hang of it
Meaning: To learn how to do something properly.
Example: I finally got the hang of writing persuasive essays.
Similar Idiom: Master the skill
Note: Informal; encouraging for learners.
13. Keep someone posted
Meaning: To keep someone updated in writing or communication.
Example: I’ll keep you posted on the progress of the report.
Similar Idiom: Keep in the loop
Note: Informal; used in emails and messages.
14. Burn the midnight oil
Meaning: To work late at night on writing or studying.
Example: She burned the midnight oil to finish her novel on time.
Similar Idiom: Pull an all-nighter
Note: Formal and informal; suitable for professional or academic contexts.
15. A picture is worth a thousand words
Meaning: Visuals can convey more than written words.
Example: Adding diagrams made the report much clearer — a picture is worth a thousand words.
Similar Idiom: Show, don’t tell
Note: Common in storytelling, journalism, and creative writing.
Professional and Academic Writing
16. Put your best foot forward
Meaning: To try your best in writing or work.
Example: I put my best foot forward in the application essay.
Similar Idiom: Go the extra mile
Note: Formal; ideal for applications, reports, or professional emails.
17. Keep it short and sweet
Meaning: To write briefly and clearly.
Example: The instructions should be short and sweet for students.
Similar Idiom: Cut to the chase
Note: Useful in emails, presentations, or daily notes.
18. Cut corners
Meaning: To do something quickly, but not carefully.
Example: Don’t cut corners when writing your thesis.
Similar Idiom: Take the easy way out
Note: Formal and informal; advice for quality work.
19. Read between the lines
Meaning: To understand the hidden meaning.
Example: You have to read between the lines to catch the author’s point.
Similar Idiom: Interpret subtly
Note: Academic or professional use; critical reading skills.
20. Get down to business
Meaning: To start working seriously.
Example: After the introduction, we got down to business and drafted the article.
Similar Idiom: Roll up your sleeves
Note: Informal and professional; effective in team meetings or writing sessions.
More Idioms to Spice Up Your Writing
21. Bite the bullet – Accept the difficulty and start writing anyway.
22. Keep your eye on the ball – Focus on the main topic or goal.
23. Learn the ropes – Understand how to write or work in a particular style.
24. Make a long story short – Summarize something quickly.
25. In a nutshell – Explain something briefly.
26. Take with a grain of salt – Don’t fully believe everything you read.
27. On the same page – Ensure understanding before writing.
28. Go the extra mile – Put more effort into writing.
29. Back to the drawing board – Start over after a failed draft.
30. Hit the ground running – Start writing with full energy.
31. By the book – Follow rules or guidelines exactly.
32. Call the shots – Make important decisions in writing projects.
33. Keep your nose to the grindstone – Work hard consistently.
34. Pull your weight – Contribute fairly to group writing.
35. Stick to your guns – Stay firm in your writing style or opinion.
36. Twist someone’s arm – Persuade someone to write or contribute.
37. The ball is in your court – It’s your turn to write or respond.
38. Cut to the chase – Get to the main point quickly.
39. A clean slate – Start writing fresh, ignoring past mistakes.
40. Break new ground – Write something original or innovative.
41. Fish for compliments – Try to get praise for your writing.
42. Jump on the bandwagon – Follow popular writing trends.
43. Keep your fingers crossed – Hope your writing is successful.
44. On the fence – Unsure how to approach writing.
45. Under the weather – Not feeling well while writing.
How to Use These Idioms in Daily Life
Idioms for writing are not just for books or essays—they fit in everyday conversations too.
- Speaking: Use idioms when describing your writing process. Example: “I had to burn the midnight oil to finish my report.”
- Writing: Add idioms to essays, emails, or creative work to make sentences lively and expressive. Example: “Let’s get down to business and draft the proposal.”
- Professional Usage: Using idioms like “in black and white” or “dot your i’s and cross your t’s” shows precision and clarity.
Common Mistakes Learners Make With Idioms
1. Wrong: I put my best foot forward in my sleep.
Correct: I put my best foot forward in my essay.
2. Wrong: The pen is stronger than the sword.
Correct: The pen is mightier than the sword.
3. Wrong: I read between the paper.
Correct: I read between the lines.
Idioms often lose meaning if used literally. Always check context before including them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can beginners use idioms in writing?
Yes! Start with simple idioms like “put pen to paper” or “make a long story short.” Using them correctly improves fluency and expression.
2. Are idioms only for creative writing?
No. Idioms are useful in emails, reports, presentations, and everyday communication. They make language natural and engaging.
3. How can I remember idioms easily?
Practice by writing sentences or stories using new idioms. Reading books and articles with idioms also helps.
4. Can idioms be used in formal writing?
Some idioms are appropriate for formal writing, like “in black and white” or “dot your i’s and cross your t’s.” Avoid overly casual idioms in academic papers.
5. Do idioms have literal meanings?
Usually, idioms have figurative meanings that differ from literal interpretation. Understanding context is key.
Conclusion
Idioms for writing are powerful tools to make your English lively, clear, and engaging. From describing the writing process to expressing creativity or effort, idioms add flair to both speaking and writing.
By learning these 45+ idioms, practicing them in daily life, and understanding their context, you can make your words more impactful and memorable.
Explore, experiment, and enjoy the richness of English idioms—they’re your secret weapon for confident and expressive writing!
