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Idiomatic Expressions
Health & Recovery
Six idioms native speakers use when talking about illness, surgery, energy, and getting healthy again.
Meaning
Recovered and able to live or work normally again after illness or difficulty.
Example
"It took her a few weeks after the operation, but now she's back on her feet."
Conversation questions
- What usually helps people get back on their feet after a setback?
- Have you ever had a period when it took time to get back on your feet?
Meaning
Very healthy and full of energy.
Example
"My grandfather is eighty and still as fit as a fiddle."
Conversation questions
- Who do you know that is as fit as a fiddle?
- What habits help people stay as fit as a fiddle as they get older?
Meaning
Having an operation or surgery.
Example
"He had to go under the knife to repair the damage to his knee."
Conversation questions
- Do you know anyone who has recently gone under the knife?
- Why do medical procedures make so many people nervous?
Meaning
Recovering and gradually getting better after being ill or injured.
Example
"She's still resting at home, but she's definitely on the mend."
Conversation questions
- What signs show that someone is really on the mend?
- How patient are you when you are recovering from something?
Meaning
Tired, weak, and lacking energy, often because of stress or overwork.
Example
"After working weekends for a month, she felt completely run down."
Conversation questions
- What usually makes people feel run down in modern life?
- How do you notice when you are starting to get run down?
Meaning
Extremely healthy, energetic, and ready for action.
Example
"After a few days of rest, he felt fighting fit again."
Conversation questions
- What makes you feel fighting fit and ready to work?
- Do you think feeling physically strong affects mental confidence too?