Body Part Idioms in English: Hand, Head and Back

Body parts appear in hundreds of English idioms, and native speakers use them all the time. In this video, you will learn three useful ones, each starting with a simple body word. First, 'hand' becomes 'old hand'. An old hand is a person with a lot of experience in something. For example: Ask Maria, she's an old hand at marketing. It is a compliment and works well at work. Second, 'head' becomes 'big head'. A person with a big head is arrogant and thinks they are better than others. You might hear: Since his promotion, he's got a big head. Third, 'back' becomes 'behind someone's back'. When someone does something behind your back, they do it secretly or unfairly, without telling you. For example: She was talking about me behind my back. Notice that only 'old hand' is positive. The other two describe negative behaviour, so use them carefully. These idioms are perfect for talking about colleagues, friends and situations at work or school. Watch the video, follow the gestures, and repeat each idiom with its meaning. Then try making your own sentence with each one to lock them into your memory.