As the snow melts away in the Northern Hemisphere and signs of spring are in the air, teach your ESL students these idioms that match perfectly with the changing seasons.

From the harsh, cold days of winter to the hopeful, bright promises of spring, idioms capture this transition beautifully.

1) A breath of fresh air

Meaning: Something new and refreshing that brings positive change.

Example: Meeting a new friend who shares my interests has been a real breath of fresh air.

2) Turn over a new leaf

Meaning: To have a new beginning and change one’s behavior or attitude for the better.

Example: After struggling with her studies last year, Amy decided to turn over a new leaf and study harder this semester.

3) Spring to life

Meaning: Suddenly become active or lively.

Example: The quiet town springs to life during every Christmas season.

4) Come into bloom

Meaning: To develop or flourish, like flowers blooming in spring.

Example: With more practice and confidence, Mark’s presentation skills have really come into bloom.

5) Every cloud has a silver lining

Meaning: Even difficult situations have a positive side.

Example: Getting fired from his job was difficult, but it led him to finally start his own business. Every cloud has a silver lining!

6) Rain or shine

Meaning: No matter what the circumstances are, something will happen as planned.

Example: The barbecue will take place this Saturday, rain or shine!

7) A fresh start

Meaning: A new beginning, often after a challenging period.

Example: Moving to a new country gave her a fresh start in life.

8) Planting the seed

Meaning: To take the initial steps that will lead to future success.

Example: By talking to more people and making those connections now, you’re planting the seed for better future work opportunities.

Engaging Activities for Teaching Idioms

To put a fun spin on teaching idioms, you can:

• Have students draw images that depict their interpretation of each idiom.
• Ask students to match idioms with seasonal images.
• Ask students to create their own sentences using the idioms.
• Play a guessing game where students act out idioms for their classmates to guess.

What are some of your favorite English idioms? Share them in the comments below!