“House” Idioms
Do you agree that people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones? If that sentence made you pause, you’re in the right place. English is full of idioms built around everyday words, and house is one of the most productive. These expressions are common in conversation, writing, and even exam answers—so learning them will help you sound more confident, natural, and expressive. Let’s explore 10 “house” idioms, explained clearly and illustrated with real-life examples.
Get on like a house on fire
Meaning: If two people get on like a house on fire, they like each other immediately and become close very quickly.
My best man and I met at university and immediately got on like a house on fire.
Bring the house down
Meaning: Used to describe a performance that receives huge applause, laughter, or enthusiasm from an audience.
Her stand-up routine was hilarious—it completely brought the house down.
As safe as houses
Meaning: Completely safe or reliable; there is no cause for worry.
Don’t worry about the booking—it’s confirmed and as safe as houses.
People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
Meaning: You should not criticise others for faults that you have yourself.
Carla keeps complaining about Mike’s drinking, but people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones—she’s a heavy smoker.
Eat someone out of house and home
Meaning: To eat so much that it becomes expensive or difficult to afford.
My teenage sons eat me out of house and home during the school holidays.
A house is not a home
Meaning: A building only becomes a home when it has warmth, comfort, and people living in it.
The flat looks beautiful, but it still feels empty—a house is not a home.
A house of cards
Meaning: A system or plan that looks impressive but is weak and likely to fail.
The company expanded too quickly, and the whole business turned out to be a house of cards.
A dream home
Meaning: The home you would most like to live in; your ideal house.
A small cottage by the sea would be my dream home.
Go (all) around the houses
Meaning: To do something in a long, complicated, or indirect way instead of being direct.
Stop going around the houses and just ask him how much the car costs.
A housewarming party
Meaning: A party you give after moving into a new home.
We’re having a housewarming party this weekend—come and see the new place!
Tip for learners
Idioms like these are especially useful in:
- Cambridge B2 First & C1 Advanced speaking
- Informal writing (emails, reviews, stories)
- Natural, confident conversation
Try choosing two idioms from this list and writing your own sentences—you’ll remember them far better that way.
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