English language is full of idioms, phrasal expressions and other figurative language tools that help people express
themselves more creatively.
These expressions can also help a new English learner fit in better with native or advanced speakers and appear knowledgeable in the language. In this article you will be able to learn over 20 different colour expressions categorized by the colours that are used in those expressions.
Once you feel comfortable with these expressions try them out in a conversation and if you wish to practice your
knowledge on colours click here to take our colour quiz.
Let’s get into it!
COLOURS
These expressions do not have a specific colour attached to them but rather employs figurative language using
colours in general as a tool.
With flying colours – to do something successfully
True colours – one’s true self
Off colour – to feel ill or bad
WHITE
White lie – an innocent change of the truth
White elephant – an expensive item
As white as a sheet – to be scared or anxious
BLACK
Black and Blue – to be bruised
Black out – To faint
Black sheep – to be different from others
RED
Catch red handed – to be caught in the act
See red – to be angry
Roll out the red carpet – to treat someone highly
YELLOW
Yellow-bellied – to be a coward
Golden opportunity – an amazing chance
Yellow brick road – a path that leads to success
BLUE
Have the blues – to be sad
Once in the blue moon – something that is very rare
Blue collar – manual job worker
GREEN
Give green light – to be allowed, give permission
Green with envy – to be very jealous
Grass is greener on the other side– a place that is not where a person is and it appears better because of that
Feel ready to put your knowledge to the test? Take our colour quiz by clicking here.