Word Family Worksheets

Have you ever been in a situation where you couldn’t find the right words to describe a particular place or city that you visited? 

We are here to help you! Have a look at 6 idioms in English that are used to describe cities, places, and events in English that are quite useful in conversational speech. 

● Been through the war 

This English idiom is used to describe a place or thing that shows signs of a lot of use or is significantly damaged. 

• For example - That house looked as though it had been through the war.

● Hive of activity 

A “hive of activity” is a place where a lot is happening, and everyone present is busy doing something. 

• For example: When we went to offer help, the kitchen was already a hive of activity.

● In the middle of nowhere 

This idiom is used to describe a place that is very remote, far from any city or town. 

• For example - The campsite was in the middle of nowhere so I couldn’t phone you.

● Creature comforts 

The expression creature comforts refers to modern conveniences (such as hot water or central heating) that make life comfortable and pleasant. 

• For example - I need my creature comforts. I don't know how I'd survive without air-conditioning in this climate!

● Going to hell in a handcart / Going to rack and ruin

If something is going to hell in a handcart, it is in a bad state and continues to deteriorate. 

• For example - This used to be a nice place to live but now the area is going to hell in a handcart.

● Here today, gone tomorrow 

This is said of something which appears and disappears very quickly, or does not last long, 

• For example - The shops in this area change very often - here today, gone tomorrow.