15 Summer idioms & expressions
Soak up the sun and learn English too!
Learn English summer idioms
[Last updated on 11/07/2023]
As the sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, summer brings with it a unique set of outdoor opportunities that many look forward to throughout the winter and spring. In this blog, we introduce 15 summer idioms and expressions that perfectly capture the essence of this vibrant season.
From lazy beach days to sizzling barbecues, we explore the colourful language used to describe the joys, adventures, and quirks of summertime. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the language of sunshine and expand your English vocabulary with memorable summer idioms and expressions to describe the sunny season.
summer fever
Meaning
a state of excitement, enthusiasm, or restlessness associated with the arrival of summer.
Example
As soon as June rolls around, I can’t help but feel the summer fever, and want to start planning barbeques and days out.
soak up the sun
Meaning
to enjoy and bask in the warmth and radiance of the sun.
Example
During my vacation, I plan to relax by the pool and soak up the sun.
on cloud nine
Meaning
to be extremely happy or elated.
Example
After graduating from university, Sara was on cloud nine for the entire summer.
travel on a shoestring
Meaning
to travel with a tight budget, spending as little money as possible.
Example
As college students, we decided to travel on a shoestring and camp in national parks instead of staying in hotels.
light as a summer breeze
Meaning
refers to a feeling of ease, lightness, or carefree happiness
Example
After finishing her exams, Jane felt as light as a summer breeze, knowing she had the whole summer ahead of her.
to make hay while the sun shines
Meaning
to take advantage of an opportunity or favourable conditions while they last.
Example
During the summer months, I try to make hay while the sun shines and work on my outdoor projects.
come rain or shine
Meaning
describes something that happens regardless of any circumstances or weather conditions.
Example
Our family always goes on a picnic in the park on Sundays, come rain or shine.
midsummer madness
Meaning
refers to the excitement, energy, or unconventional behaviour associated with the middle of summer.
Example
Every year, our neighbours host a summertime party, full of music, dancing, and midsummer madness.
dog days of summer
Meaning
refers to the hottest and most uncomfortable period of summer.
Example
During the dog days of summer, we stay indoors and try to keep cool.
sweat like a pig
Meaning
to sweat excessively.
Example
I can’t stand the hot weather. As soon as I step outside, I start sweating like a pig!
beat the heat
Meaning
to find ways to stay cool or avoid the discomfort caused by hot weather.
Example
To beat the heat, we decided to go swimming in the lake and enjoy the cool water.
summer dreams
Meaning
refers to the aspirations, plans, or desires associated with the summer season.
Example
As the school year came to an end, the students were filled with summer dreams, imagining lazy days by the pool and carefree adventures under the sun.”
a breath of fresh air
Meaning
refers to something new, refreshing, or invigorating.
Example
After a long winter, the arrival of summer was like a breath of fresh air, bringing warmth and new opportunities.
brighter than a summer's day
Meaning
describes something exceptionally radiant, cheerful, or positive.
Example
Her smile was brighter than a summer’s day, lighting up the room with joy.
sail into the sunset
Meaning
to embark on a new chapter in life or pursue an adventure with a sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Example
After years of hard work, they sold their business and decided to sail into the sunset and travel the world on their yacht.
Start using summer idioms and expressions
As our journey through the language of summer comes to a close, we hope you’ve enjoyed this exploration of summer idioms and expressions. Whether you’re having a barbeque with friends or enjoying a summer holiday break, these expressions can describe your summer experiences and emotions. If you take part in language exchange groups or have an English trainer, try using these summer idioms and expressions to strengthen your English fluency.
We wish you an exciting summer and English language adventure!
Would you like to take an English course?
One of the best ways to develop your English fluency is to enrol on an online English course with a qualified trainer. They can discuss your personal goals, set targets and give valuable feedback. By working together, you can have regular practice with one of our English trainers and take your English skills to the next level.