Word Family Worksheets

1. To beat the holiday blues 

● Meaning: to overcome the stress and frustration resulting from holiday preparation or resulting from the need to get back to your usual routine after a holiday. 

Example: When I want to beat the holiday blues I always think about the fact that soon it will be over. 

2. Christmas came early (this year) 

● Meaning: when someone receives some unexpected good news. 

Example: Did you hear that Janice is pregnant? Christmas came early this year for her and Matthew. 

3. The more the merrier 

● Meaning: the more people or things there are, the better a given situation will be. 

Example: 

- Can I bring my grandma to the holiday party? 

- Sure, the more the merrier. 

4. Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle 

● Meaning: don’t get stressed out trying to make Christmas perfect. 

5. Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth 

● Meaning: don’t be ungrateful when you receive a present, even if it’s not exactly what you wanted 

Example: 

- Oh no, I don’t like historical novels. 

- Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. 

6. Good things come in small packages 

● Meaning: the size of a gift doesn’t determine what’s inside; in the same way, a small person may have a big heart 

Example: At first I was saddened by the size of my gift, but I thought to myself that good things come in small packages. I was not mistaken, because inside there were keys to a new car! 

7. It’s the thought that counts 

● Meaning: it’s the kindness behind an act that matters, however imperfect or insignificant it may be. 

- Oh, I got another pair of socks. Couldn't grandma care more about my Xmas presents? 

- Don't be picky. It’s the thought that counts. 

8. The holiday spirit 

● Meaning: excitement about the holiday. 

Example: New Year isn’t here yet and I’m already feeling the holiday spirit. 

9. Be my guest 

● Meaning: a polite way to let someone know that they should help themselves to something. 

Example: 

- Do you mind if I get that last piece of the fruitcake? 

- Be my guest. 

10. Be there with bells on 

● Meaning: said in response to an invitation and meaning you will happily go. 

Example: 

- Mom, will you come to my Christmas play at school? 

- Of course, I will be there with bells on.