Human history has been shaped by war and peace, which represent conflict and harmony, struggle and resolution. In English, these themes are reflected in a wide range of idioms that go beyond the battlefield to describe everyday situations—whether it’s facing a challenge at work or keeping the peace in a relationship. It’s crucial to understand these idioms, not only for language learners but also for anyone who wants to comprehend the deeper meanings and emotions that these expressions convey.We will uncover the meanings of 15 idioms related to war and peace in this blog, and provide examples of how they are used in real-life conversations.
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15 English Idioms About War and Peace
The language of English is full of idioms that originate from the battlefield and the peace table, and are used to express difficulties in everyday life, whether it’s in personal relationships, business, or politics. Here are 15 common English idioms about war and peace, with their meanings and examples of their use in conversation.
To wage war on something
Meaning: To strongly oppose or try to eliminate something.
Example: The government is waging war on plastic waste.
To call a truce
Meaning: To agree to stop fighting or arguing for a period of time.
Example: After hours of arguing, they finally called a truce and sat down to talk calmly.
To hold out an olive branch
Meaning: To offer peace or reconciliation.
Example: She held out an olive branch by inviting her old friend to lunch after years of silence.
To keep the peace
Meaning: To avoid conflict and maintain harmony.
Example: He stayed quiet during the meeting just to keep the peace.
To give peace a chance
Meaning: To try to live or act peacefully, especially after conflict.
Example: It’s time we gave peace a chance instead of arguing all the time.
At daggers drawn
Meaning: In a state of extreme hostility or conflict.
Example: The two colleagues have been at daggers drawn since the promotion decision.
At gunpoint
Meaning: Under threat of being shot; by force or threat.
Example: He was forced to open the safe at gunpoint.
Before you can say knife
Meaning: Very quickly; almost instantly.
Example: He disappeared before you could say knife.
Bring a knife to gunfight
Meaning: To be poorly prepared or outmatched in a situation.
Example: Trying to argue with her was like bringing a knife to a gunfight.
Don’t shoot the messenger
Meaning: Don’t blame the person who brings bad news.
Example: I didn’t make the decision, I’m just delivering it—don’t shoot the messenger!
Double-edged sword
Meaning: Something that has both good and bad consequences.
Example: Technology is a double-edged sword—it makes life easier but also brings distractions.
To fight tooth and nail
Meaning: To fight or try very hard with great determination.
Example: She fought tooth and nail to win the scholarship.
At loggerheads
Meaning: In strong disagreement or dispute.
Example: The two departments are at loggerheads over the budget.
To bury the hatchet
Meaning: To end a conflict and make peace.
Example: They finally buried the hatchet after years of rivalry.
Straight as an arrow
Meaning: Honest and morally upright.
Example: You can trust him, he’s straight as an arrow.
Frequently Asked Questions About English Idioms About War and Peace
Why are war idioms common in English?
People often use war idioms to express strong emotions, problems, and struggles. These phrases are convenient when discussing difficult or competitive situations, even in daily life or at work, as war has been an important part of human history.
Can peace idioms be used in professional settings?
Peace idioms are frequently used in work. They help describe actions like solving problems or making teamwork better. When people want to end a fight or argument, they use phrases like ‘make peace’ or ‘offer an olive branch’.
How can I learn to use these idioms correctly?
To properly use idioms, it’s important to read books, watch movies, or listen to native speakers. Make a habit of writing down the idioms you hear and practicing using them in your own sentences. As you use them more often, it becomes easier!
How do peace idioms reflect cultural values?
The use of peace idioms reflects cultural values, which emphasize the importance of harmony, forgiveness, and understanding in society. To make peace after a fight, the idiom ‘offer an olive branch’ is used. The olive branch’s significance as a peace sign dates back to ancient times. This idiom demonstrates that individuals prefer to solve problems in a calm manner rather than fighting them.
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