Welcome to our fun exploration of English idioms that are all about movies! Idioms are phrases that don’t mean exactly what the words say but have a hidden meaning. They make talking and writing more interesting, especially when they’re about something as exciting as movies. Let’s dive into some movie-themed idioms that you can start using right away!
Movie Idioms
Here are 20 movie idioms in English with meaning and example sentence for each.
1. Steal the show
Meaning: To get all the attention
Example: Emma really stole the show at the talent contest.
2. Flop
Meaning: A complete failure
Example: The new sitcom was a flop and canceled quickly.
3. Bomb
Meaning: To fail miserably
Example: His comedy routine bombed at the club.
4. Face the music
Meaning: To confront the consequences
Example: He cheated, now he must face the music.
5. In the limelight
Meaning: Center of attention
Example: She’s been in the limelight all week.
6. Showstopper
Meaning: Something outstandingly good
Example: The final scene was a real showstopper.
7. Not ready for prime time
Meaning: Not prepared for the main event
Example: His skills are not ready for prime time.
8. Play second fiddle
Meaning: To be less important
Example: He hates playing second fiddle to anyone.
9. A tough act to follow
Meaning: An impressive predecessor
Example: Her performance was a tough act to follow.
10. Chew the scenery
Meaning: To overact
Example: He really chews the scenery in that drama.
11. Make a scene
Meaning: Cause a public disturbance
Example: She made a scene at the restaurant.
12. Behind the scenes
Meaning: Unseen, not public
Example: A lot happens behind the scenes of a movie.
13. Kick off the show
Meaning: To start the event
Example: He kicked off the show with a bang.
14. Steal one’s thunder
Meaning: To take someone’s attention
Example: She stole his thunder with her announcement.
15. Hit the big time
Meaning: To become successful
Example: He finally hit the big time with his new film.
16. Understudy
Meaning: Backup performer
Example: She’s the understudy for the lead role.
17. Steal the spotlight
Meaning: To take all the attention
Example: The lead guitarist stole the spotlight tonight.
18. Box office hit
Meaning: Financially successful movie
Example: Their film was a box office hit.
19. Steal the scene
Meaning: To dominate the scene
Example: He stole the scene with his powerful act.
20. Star-studded
Meaning: Having many famous actors
Example: The film was star-studded and exciting.
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