15+ Idioms and Phrases Starting With A

Last Updated: Feb 26, 2026, 17:48 IST

Idioms and phrases are a group of words with non-literal meanings that add colour to language. While idioms have a figurative meaning different from their individual words, phrases are shorter, often literal groups of words that act as a unit within a sentence.

Idioms and phrases starting with A.
Idioms and phrases starting with A.

Idioms and phrases are a group of words with non-literal meanings that add colour to language. While idioms have a figurative meaning different from their individual words, phrases are shorter, often literal groups of words that act as a unit within a sentence.

Idioms often cannot be understood by defining the words individually. Many idioms have been derived from historical stories or cultural experiences. Idioms are used to emphasise a point, add humour, or make language more creative.

The difference between idioms and phrases is that an idiom is a phrase with a special, non-literal meaning (e.g., "over the moon" meaning very happy), while phrases are any group of words (e.g., "in the morning"). 

Understanding idioms and phrases is crucial for comprehending conversations, movies, and literature.

In this article, we will learn idioms and phrases starting with the letter A along with their meanings. 

Idioms and Phrases With Meaning Starting With The Letter A

Below, we have compiled a table with the list of idioms and phrases starting with the letter 'A' along with their meanings. 

idioms-and-phrases-starting-with-a

Idiom Meaning
At the end of one's hope Having reached the limit of one's patience
A fish out of water Someone who is uncomfortable in a particular situation
All in a day's work Something that is typical or expected
All dressed up with nowhere to go Dressed nicely but with no plans or place to go
A chip on one's shoulder  Holding a grudge or feeling resentful
At the crack of dawn Very early in the morning
A bitter pill to swallow Something difficult to accept
A bird in the hand Something already acquired and certain
A chip on your shoulder Holding a grudge or grievance
All bark and no bite Threatening but not willing or lacking to act
Apple of my eye Someone or something that is cherished above all others
A piece of cake A taste or activity that is very easy to accomplish
All thumbs To be clumsy or awkward with one's hands
Against the clock Racing to meet a deadline or complete a task in a limited amount of time
Add fuel to the fire To worsen an already tense or difficult situation
All ears Fully attentive and eager to listen
As cool as a cucumber Calm and composed
As easy as ABC Very simple or straightforward
A penny for your thoughts A request for someone's opinion or to know what they are thinking
A taste of your own medicine Experiencing the same negative treatment that one has given to others
A hot potato A controversial or sensitive issue that is difficult to handle
Actions speak louder than words What someone does is more significant than what they say
At the drop of a hat Immediately and without hesitation
A wolf in sheep's clothing Someone who appears harmless but is actually dangerous

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Roopashree Sharma
Roopashree Sharma

Deputy Manager

Roopashree Sharma is a seasoned content writing professional with over 5 years of experience in digital journalism, specialising in writing explainers and IQ quizzes across geopolitics, business, finance, and pop culture. She holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and has contributed to leading media houses, including Zee, Times, and India TV. Currently serving as Deputy Manager – Editorial at Jagran New Media, she writes and produces videos for the General Knowledge (GK) section of the Jagran Josh (English) portal. For inquiries, contact her at roopashree.sharma@jagrannewmedia.com.

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