Valentine’s Day has been long overdue but it doesn’t mean flowers are limited only to that day. Incorporating flowers in our language sure is refreshing and the English language has a lot of phrases about nature.
These floral phrases and sayings would surely give a thrill to how you communicate with others. Who’s to blame? These expressions are sure to give you a refreshing feel.
“Stop and smell the roses.”
“(No) Bed of Roses”
This idiom is used to describe an unpleasant situation or activity. On the contrary, being on a bed of roses or “are all roses” means an easy and comfortable situation. In other words, you are in your safe zone.
Sample Sentence: Studying a language is no bed of roses.
Sample Dialogue:
A: Long time no see!
B: Yeah, it’s been a while. How are you and Tom?
A: I’m not sure. We’re having a rough time.
B: Oh, why so?
A: We have been arguing a lot lately, even about the pettiest things.
B: I see. All you need is a bit more understanding. You know, marriage is no bed of roses.
“Fresh as a Daisy”
Daisy is a flower that grows all around the world. Traditionally, it became the symbol of purity and innocence. When someone tells you that you are looking fresh a daisy, it is a high admiring comment that means you are looking absolutely great that day. This expression came from the Old English lexicon, day’s eye. At night the petals of a daisy would close and then re-open in the morning when the sun is out. So, this expression implies that you are looking great after having a good night’s sleep.
Sample Sentence: She’s fresh as a daisy as always.
Sample Dialogue:
A: Good morning, Mel!
B: Good morning, Sarah! You’re fresh as a daisy today.
A: Oh, thank you. I just had a good night’s sleep last night. I have been sleeping late the past few days.
B: Why so?
A: Working on a big project.
B: Good luck, then.
“Nip (something) in the Bud”
To nip something in the bud means to stop it (a problem) immediately so that it does not become worse.
Sample Sentence: Your habit of being late would become worse if you don’t nip it in the bud.
Sample Dialogue:
A: You’re late again. This is already the third time.
B: I’m so sorry, I woke up late.
A: Your habit of being late would become worse if you don’t nip it in the bud.
B: But how do I do that?
A: The best option is for you to set the alarm clock. You also have to stop playing video games until past midnight, especially when you have to attend appointments.
B: Will do. Thanks.
“Shrinking Violet”
This idiom is used to describe someone timid.
Sample Sentence: Jovy’s son is a shrinking violet.
Sample Dialog:
A: What are you doing?
B: Just sketching to pass the time.
A: Can I take a look?
B: Sure but I’m not good at it.
A: Are you kidding me? This is great! Why don’t you join the art club?
B: W-what?! No!
A: Come on! I know you’re a shrinking violet but you need to get out of your comfort zone. That’s how we grow. Give it a thought, will you?
B: I guess I will.
“Take risks and for sure, you’ll come out smelling roses.”
“Ups-a-Daisy”
This expression is used to encourage a child who has fallen or is being lifted. In other situations, this is also said when you or somebody else has made a mistake, dropped something, fallen down, etc.
Sample Dialog:
A: It’s such a love day today. There’s not even a cloud in the sky.
B: You’re right, honey. The kids are loving the picnic here at the park.
A: Anna, be careful! (The child falls and cries) Hold on. (Approaches his daughter and lifts her) Ups a daisy! Be careful next time, okay?
C: Yes, Daddy.
“To Sow the Seeds of…”
This idiom is used to express doing something that will bring about a particular result in the future.
Sample Sentence: Peejay has sown the seeds of his hard work; he won the competition after practicing almost every day.
Sample Dialog:
A: Have you heard the latest news?
B: I’m not sure what you’re talking about.
A: Dan has been promoted.
B: Oh, wow! Good to hear that.
A: Right. He has sown the seeds of his hard work here in the company.
B: I agree. He deserves it.
Yes, learning the English language is no bed of roses. It may take a long time before you can say that you’ve truly become proficient with the language. But sometimes, doing something difficult or uncomfortable is necessary. It’s how we grow.
So, take risks and for sure, you’ll come out smelling roses. Yes, that’s another idiom meaning to come out successful after a difficult situation.