In the CELPIP exam, achieving a 10+ requires a high level of fluency and the use of idiomatic expressions can certainly enhance your score, especially for speaking and writing. Here are some commonly used idiomatic expressions that can help:
Break the ice – To start a conversation in a social setting to make people feel more comfortable.
"At the party, I told a joke to break the ice."
Bite the bullet – To do something unpleasant or difficult that you’ve been avoiding.
"I didn’t want to go to the dentist, but I had to bite the bullet and make the appointment."
Under the weather – Feeling ill or sick.
"I think I’m going to stay home today; I’m feeling a bit under the weather."
A blessing in disguise – Something that seems bad at first, but turns out to be good in the end.
"Losing my job was a blessing in disguise; it led me to a better opportunity."
Cut to the chase – To get to the point or the most important part of something.
"Let’s cut to the chase—how much is it going to cost?"
Hit the nail on the head – To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.
"She really hit the nail on the head with her solution to the issue."
On the ball – Being quick to understand and respond to things.
"You’re really on the ball today; you solved all the problems in no time."
Burn the midnight oil – To work late into the night.
"I had to burn the midnight oil to finish the project before the deadline."
Throw in the towel – To give up or admit defeat.
"After several attempts, I finally had to throw in the towel and ask for help."
Make ends meet – To manage financially, especially when resources are limited.
"It’s been tough trying to make ends meet on a tight budget."
Using idiomatic expressions like these can make your speech or writing sound more natural and fluent, which is important for scoring well on the CELPIP. Just make sure you understand their meaning and use them in the correct context!