4. Idioms related to the weather

If I tell you that I'm 'snowed under', what do you think I mean?

1. I'm having problems with the winter weather.
2. I'm very confused.
3. I've got too much work to do.

What do you think? If you said c, that's exactly right!

'To be snowed under' is an idiom – a group of words with a special meaning that is different from the meaning of each word on its own. 

There are lots of idioms in English related to weather. In this step you'll find six useful ones that you hear and read quite often. 

Can you guess what the idioms in bold mean in each example? Then check the definitions below to see if you're right.

He was on cloud nine when they offered him the job.
She gets up at 6 a.m., come rain or shine, and goes for her morning walk.
I threw caution to the wind and followed them into the water.
The return trip was a breeze after the hard climb up the mountain.
They're so positive and enthusiastic – it's like a breath of fresh air working with them.
I'm totally snowed under at work this week.

Definitions

You can use these idioms in informal communication to make your speaking and writing more interesting.

We want to hear from you

• Did you know any of these expressions already? Which is your favourite?
• Do you know any more weather idioms in English?
• Can you translate an idiom from your language into English and tell us what it means?

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