Animated movies aren’t just fun to watch—they’re also packed with useful English expressions and idioms. Whether you’re learning English as a second language or just want to understand native speakers better, animated films are a great resource. From Shrek to Frozen, these movies use natural, everyday language—including idioms—that can help you sound more fluent and confident.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 popular English idioms found in animated movies. You’ll learn what each idiom means, how it’s used in the movie, and how to use it in real life.
1. “Let the cat out of the bag” – Zootopia
In Zootopia, characters often deal with secrets and surprises. While this exact idiom isn’t said word-for-word, the theme appears when Judy Hopps accidentally reveals information.
Meaning: To reveal a secret, usually by accident.
Example: “I was planning a surprise party, but Mike let the cat out of the bag!”
2. “Cold shoulder” – Frozen
Elsa literally gives Anna the cold shoulder when she pushes her away. This moment reflects the idiom perfectly.
Meaning: To intentionally ignore someone or be unfriendly.
Example: “She gave me the cold shoulder after our argument.”
3. “Hit the nail on the head” – Shrek
Donkey often speaks the truth in unexpected ways. When he tells Shrek what’s really bothering him, he “hits the nail on the head.”
Meaning: To describe something accurately or get something exactly right.
Example: “You hit the nail on the head—it’s not about the money, it’s about trust.”
4. “In hot water” – The Incredibles
Mr. Incredible gets into trouble for secretly saving people, putting him in “hot water” with the authorities.
Meaning: To be in trouble or facing punishment.
Example: “He’s in hot water for skipping work again.”
5. “Fish out of water” – Finding Nemo
When Nemo is taken from the ocean and placed in a fish tank, he’s literally a “fish out of water”—but it’s also a useful idiom.
Meaning: Feeling uncomfortable or out of place in a new situation.
Example: “At my new job, I felt like a fish out of water.”
6. “Bite off more than you can chew” – Ratatouille
Remy, the rat, dreams of becoming a chef—a big challenge for a small creature. He definitely bites off more than he can chew.
Meaning: To take on a task that’s too difficult or more than you can handle.
Example: “I tried to work full-time and study, but I bit off more than I could chew.”
7. “Once in a blue moon” – Tangled
Rapunzel finally leaves her tower after many years—something that only happens “once in a blue moon.”
Meaning: Something that happens very rarely.
Example: “He only visits his family once in a blue moon.”
8. “Under the weather” – Inside Out
Sadness influences Riley’s emotions, showing how people can feel “under the weather” without being physically sick.
Meaning: Feeling ill or emotionally down.
Example: “I’m staying home today—I feel a bit under the weather.”
9. “Break the ice” – Frozen
In a literal and idiomatic sense, Elsa breaks the ice. But the phrase also means starting a conversation or easing tension in social situations.
Meaning: To make people feel more comfortable in a social setting.
Example: “He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.”
10. “Hit the road” – Toy Story
Woody and Buzz go on an unexpected journey, or “hit the road,” as they try to return to Andy.
Meaning: To leave or start a journey.
Example: “Let’s hit the road early to avoid traffic.”
Why Animated Movies Are Great for Learning Idioms
Animated movies use simple, clear language because they’re made for younger audiences. This makes them perfect for English learners at all levels. Plus, animated films are full of emotional moments, character development, and natural dialogue—all great sources for learning real English expressions.
When watching animated movies:
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Turn on subtitles to follow the idioms as they’re spoken.
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Pause and repeat scenes to hear pronunciation and rhythm.
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Write down idioms and practice using them in your own sentences.
Final Thoughts
Learning English idioms doesn’t have to be boring. With animated movies, you can have fun while improving your listening and speaking skills. The more you hear idioms in context, the easier they become to understand and use.
Next time you watch a movie like Shrek, Frozen, or Toy Story, keep an ear out for idioms. You might be surprised how many you already know—and how quickly you can add new ones to your vocabulary.