Idioms inspired by books often draw on the themes of perception and understanding. These English sayings can give us insight into how we interpret information and underscore the importance of looking beyond the surface. Here are 10 phrases related to literature that illustrate how reading influences our views and relationships.
Read between the lines
Meaning: to look for the underlying or deeper meanings that are implied rather than clearly stated
Example: You need to read between the lines to understand how he truly feels about this confusing situation.
Take a leaf out of someone’s book
Meaning: to imitate or adopt someone else’s behaviour, ideas or strategies, usually because it will bring you success
Example: I decided to take a leaf out of my sister’s book and start setting clearer goals for myself.
Open book
Meaning: describes a person who is honest and transparent about their feelings
Example: I appreciate having friends who are an open book; it makes our conversations so much more honest.
Read someone like a book
Meaning: to understand a person very well, often to the point of being able to anticipate their thoughts, feelings or reactions
Example: Stephanie can read Will like a book, knowing exactly how he is feeling even when he does not say a word.
Read the Riot Act
Meaning: to berate someone or give them a stern warning, typically to make them aware of serious consequences
Example: After Michelle and Lisa’s disruptive behaviour during class, our teacher had to read them the Riot Act.
By the book
Meaning: to do something exactly as the rules or established guidelines say to
Example: Our group project leader made sure we did everything strictly by the book so we could get a good grade.
The oldest trick in the book
Meaning: a tactic or method that is well-known and has been used for a long time
Example: Sam tried to charm his way out of detention, but that is the oldest trick in the book.
Hit the books
Meaning: to begin studying or getting serious about academic work.
Example: Hugo can’t watch a film with us tonight; he has to hit the books.
Don’t judge a book by its cover
Meaning: you should not form an opinion about someone or something based solely on appearance
Example: Remember, don’t judge a book by its cover; Natalie is shy, but she is also an incredible vocalist.
Cook the books
Meaning: to alter facts or figures dishonestly or illegally, usually changing numbers in an organisation’s financial records to steal money from it
Example: Rachel could have cooked the books and made herself a lot more money.
