Ever wonder how everyday phrases can mean something completely different than they sound? Idioms are fun expressions that don’t mean exactly what the words say. This post explores idioms that include the word “do,” showing how versatile and interesting language can be, even for kids!
Do Idioms
Here are 20 do idioms in English.
1. Do time
Meaning: Serve a prison sentence.
Example: He had to do time for stealing.
2. Do the honors
Meaning: Perform a ceremonial task.
Example: She did the honors of cutting the cake.
3. Do or die
Meaning: Critical, decisive action needed.
Example: It’s do or die in the final game.
4. Do the trick
Meaning: Achieve the desired result.
Example: This tool should do the trick.
5. Do away with
Meaning: Abolish or discard.
Example: Let’s do away with old rules.
6. Do someone proud
Meaning: Make someone proud.
Example: His performance did us proud.
7. Do one’s bit
Meaning: Contribute one’s share.
Example: Everyone needs to do their bit.
8. Do the rounds
Meaning: Visit various places.
Example: The rumor is doing the rounds.
9. Do wonders
Meaning: Be extremely effective.
Example: This medicine does wonders.
10. Do battle
Meaning: Engage in conflict.
Example: They did battle in court.
11. Do without
Meaning: Manage without something.
Example: We’ll have to do without sugar.
12. Do a double take
Meaning: Look in surprise or disbelief.
Example: He did a double take at the price.
13. Do over
Meaning: Repeat or redo something.
Example: Let’s do the game over.
14. Do dirt
Meaning: Harm someone’s reputation.
Example: She did dirt on her rival.
15. Do a number on
Meaning: Damage or ruin something.
Example: That storm did a number on the roof.
16. Do one’s duty
Meaning: Fulfill one’s responsibilities.
Example: He always does his duty diligently.
17. Do good
Meaning: Have a positive effect.
Example: Volunteering does good for everyone.
18. Do one’s utmost
Meaning: Try one’s hardest.
Example: She did her utmost to win.
19. Do the dishes
Meaning: Wash the eating utensils.
Example: He’s doing the dishes tonight.
20. Do well by
Meaning: Treat someone properly.
Example: She always does well by her friends.
