10 Colorful Idioms: out of blue for your gray matter

What are idioms? This is a common question for many native speakers and individuals who learn English as a second language. Essentially, idiomatic expressions have acquired an additional proverbial meaning that goes beyond the literal phrase. Here are a few examples of idioms that use the names of colors in an imaginative way.


- As Black as the Ace of Spades:
This idiom describes a state of being that epitomizes complete and utter darkness. It can also describe an object that represents the truest black color.
For example: "Jessica’s mink stole was as black as the ace of spades."

- Blue Blood:
Anyone who claims to have royal heritage, aristocratic status or luxury privileges can be called a blue blood.
Here’s an example: "Ivan the Terrible was a true blue blood, but he was also known for his reign of terror."

- Out of the Blue:
This common idiom describes an unusual or surprising occurrence.
Here’s an example: "Julian asked Chelsea to elope out of the blue."

- A Gray Area:
This idiom applies to a situation or concept that is unclear, open to interpretation or can be exploited to find loopholes.
For example: "Zoning laws affecting commercial buildings and residential apartments have brought up a legal gray area."

- Gray Matter:
The gray matter describes a group of important cells that are found in the cerebral cortex.
For example: "Agatha Christie’s character Hercule Poirot praises the fortitude of his gray matter when he mentions his “little gray cells.”"

- Grass is Always Greener on the Other Side:
This common proverb describes a place or situation that appears better but is often no better than current conditions.
Here’s an example: "Jessie thought it would be great to go to a private school, but the grass is always greener on the other side."

- Pink Slip:
Although notices of termination are not printed on pink paper, this common metaphor is used when a worker is fired.
Here’s an example: "After arriving late for the fifth time in one week, Sam was finally given the pink slip."

- Wave a White Flag:
This is an official military sign to surrender or to negotiate a truce, but it is also used in conversation.
For example: "After bickering for an hour, Margaret waved the white flag."

- Red Herring:
A red herring is a deceiving clue or distraction that is intended to be misleading.
Here’s an example: "Sherlock Holmes is never deceived by red herrings. He can always determine the true culprit."

- Green Thumb:
Those who are lucky enough to have a green thumb seem to grow lush plants without trying.
Here’s an example: "Mr. Wilson always has fresh strawberries and ripe tomatoes before summer begins. He certainly has a green thumb."

Have you ever wondered about the meaning of a certain idiom? Do you like a particular idiom that includes the name of a color? If so, share your favorite idioms and phrases in the comments section.

http://www.grammar.net/colorfulidioms