English Language Exercise: Mastering Idioms for Describing People and Personalities

This exercise is designed to help you practice and master the idioms used to describe people’s personalities and behaviors. Below are various activities that will strengthen your understanding and ability to use these idioms in everyday conversation and writing.

Part 1: Match the Idiom to Its Definition

Match the idiom with the correct meaning by writing the appropriate letter next to the idiom.

1. As cool as a cucumber
2. A social butterfly
3. A dark horse
4. A go-getter
5. As stubborn as a mule
6. A cold fish
7. The life of the party
8. A couch potato
9. A busybody
10. A wet blanket

Meanings:

A. Someone who is lively and the center of attention at social gatherings.
B. Someone who remains calm and unbothered, even in stressful situations.
C. Someone who unexpectedly reveals a hidden talent or skill.
D. A person who talks to many people and loves socializing.
E. Someone who is lazy and spends a lot of time being inactive, usually watching TV.
F. A person who is inflexible and refuses to change their mind.
G. Someone who interferes in others’ business.
H. Someone who spoils the fun or enthusiasm of others.
I. A person who is distant or emotionally cold.
J. Someone who is energetic, ambitious, and always working toward their goals.

Part 2: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the sentences by choosing the correct idiom from the box.

Idioms to Choose From:

• A cold fish
• The salt of the earth
• Full of hot air
• Wise beyond one’s years
• A jack of all trades
• A chip on one’s shoulder
• A good egg
• As quiet as a mouse
• All bark and no bite
• Down to earth

1. Despite being so young, Ella gives such mature advice. She’s __________.
2. You can rely on John for anything—he’s truly __________.
3. Although Jake talks big, he’s __________ when it comes to following through.
4. Lisa never says much in meetings; she’s always __________.
5. Tim gets upset so easily these days—he’s always got __________.
6. Rachel is so practical and humble, even with her success. She’s really __________.
7. My new neighbor seems distant and unfriendly—he’s __________.
8. David can do a little of everything; he’s __________.
9. The new boss is great—always fair and easy to work with. He’s __________.
10. Mary’s all talk. She makes threats but is really __________.

Part 3: Idiom Identification

Read the short descriptions below and identify which idiom best describes the person’s personality. Write your answer next to each description.

1. Jenny loves planning parties and making sure everyone has fun. She’s always full of energy and never stops dancing.
   Idiom: __________
2. Even when things go wrong, Michael stays calm. He never panics, even during crises.
   Idiom: __________
3. People often underestimate Lisa, but she surprises everyone by always performing the best in unexpected areas.
   Idiom: __________
4. Mark has lots of hobbies and interests. He can fix cars, cook, and even do photography, but he’s not an expert in any of them.
   Idiom: __________
5. Steve loves socializing and meeting new people. He can strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere.
   Idiom: __________

Part 4: Conversation Practice

Work with a partner or imagine the following scenarios, and use the appropriate idiom to describe the person. Choose from the list of idioms you’ve learned.

1. Describe a person who spoils other people’s enthusiasm at a party.
   • Example Response: “He’s a real wet blanket, always complaining when others are having fun.”
2. Describe a colleague who is determined and ambitious, always seeking opportunities.
   • Example Response: “She’s such a go-getter; she never waits for things to happen—she makes them happen.”
3. Talk about a friend who likes to meddle in others’ business.
   • Example Response: “She’s such a busybody, always poking her nose into other people’s matters.”
4. Discuss someone who gets easily offended and always feels like they have something to prove.
   • Example Response: “Ever since that incident, he’s had a chip on his shoulder.”

Part 5: Create Your Own Sentences

Write sentences using the following idioms. Try to relate them to people you know or imagine different scenarios.

1. Life of the party
   Your sentence: _________________________________
2. Full of hot air
   Your sentence: _________________________________
3. As stubborn as a mule
   Your sentence: _________________________________
4. The salt of the earth
   Your sentence: _________________________________
5. Wise beyond one’s years
   Your sentence: _________________________________