Construction is not just about building structures; it’s also built into the way we talk! Many phrases we use every day come from the world of building and fixing things. In this blog, we’ll explore some common construction-related idioms, explain what they mean, and show how to use them in sentences. It’s fun and easy to learn!
Construction Idioms
Here are 20 construction idioms in English with meaning and example sentences for each.
1. Lay the foundation
Meaning: Establish a basis
Example: She laid the foundation for a successful career.
2. On the level
Meaning: Honest, truthful
Example: I trust him; he’s on the level.
3. Hit the nail on the head
Meaning: Be exactly right
Example: You hit the nail on the head with that idea.
4. Cement the relationship
Meaning: Strengthen the connection
Example: They cemented their partnership.
5. Build bridges
Meaning: Improve relationships
Example: He’s building bridges with his team.
6. Constructive criticism
Meaning: Helpful advice
Example: She offered constructive criticism.
7. Elevate the discussion
Meaning: Improve the conversation
Example: Let’s elevate the discussion here.
8. Get the scaffolding up
Meaning: Prepare the basics
Example: Let’s get the scaffolding up first.
9. Knock on wood
Meaning: Hope for good luck
Example: I passed my test, knock on wood.
10. Nailed down
Meaning: Finally decided
Example: The plan is nailed down.
11. Pave the way
Meaning: Make future events easier
Example: This deal will pave the way for new projects.
12. Raise the roof
Meaning: Celebrate loudly
Example: They raised the roof at the party.
13. Smooth out the edges
Meaning: Refine or improve
Example: We need to smooth out the edges.
14. Through the roof
Meaning: At a high level
Example: Prices went through the roof.
15. Tools of the trade
Meaning: Essential skills
Example: He’s got all the tools of the trade.
16. Under construction
Meaning: In the process of being built
Example: The new site is under construction.
17. Up to code
Meaning: Meeting the standard
Example: The wiring is up to code.
18. Weather the storm
Meaning: Endure a difficult period
Example: We weathered the storm together.
19. Wipe the slate clean
Meaning: Start fresh
Example: Let’s wipe the slate clean and begin again.
20. Break new ground
Meaning: Do something innovative
Example: This project breaks new ground in design.
