Meaning
Similar phrases: "The darkest hour is just before dawn", "the night is darkest just before dawn"
Example
I can't believe this has happened to me. But you know what they say, 'It's always darkest before dawn.'
My whole life has been full of ups and downs, but I know that it's always darkest before dawn.
I just got laid off but it's always darkest before dawn, right? Things have a way of working themselves out.
Have you heard of that saying, 'It's always darkest before dawn'? I never understood what it meant until I lost everything in the hurricane. I'm so grateful that we're alive and back on our feet.
Quiz
What is an Idiom
An idiom is a phrase or expression that usually presents a figurative, non-literal meaning attached to the phrase. Idioms are not just used in conversations – they're also very common in literature, movies, and music. We utilize them to convey a message in a concise and effective manner, and often have deep cultural or historical significance. They help to create a vivid and memorable image in the minds of the audience.
Idioms are difficult because they do not mean what they literally state. Communication challenges emerge when you translate an idiom in your language; it will not make sense or if it does make sense you may miss the intended meaning.
How to Study Idioms
- Read them. Read books, newspapers, magazine articles, online articles for exposure in written material.
- Watch them. Watch TV shows and movies in English! There are so many streaming services available for you to choose from. Listen attentively and try to understand the context in which they are used.
- Use them. Talk to native speakers and try to incorporate common idioms into your conversations. Try using them during conversations with friends, family, coworkers, or through text.
- Practice. Practice. Practice. Remember that you can't learn all of them! So start with a few that you understand and build your library of idioms from there!
