Leisure time, those moments when we unwind and relax, is universally cherished. In this blog post, we explore 20 idioms that beautifully capture the essence of leisure. These phrases enrich our language, allowing us to express the joy and tranquility of our free time in colorful and vivid terms. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a quiet evening, these idioms will add flair to your descriptions of downtime.
Idioms That Describe Leisure
1. Kick back
Meaning: To relax completely.
Example: She likes to kick back with a good book.
2. Hang loose
Meaning: Remain relaxed and free from stress.
Example: On vacation, I just hang loose.
3. Take it easy
Meaning: Relax and not exert oneself.
Example: This weekend, just take it easy.
4. Chill out
Meaning: Relax or take time out.
Example: He chilled out at home all day.
5. Let your hair down
Meaning: Relax and enjoy oneself.
Example: At the party, she let her hair down.
6. Veg out
Meaning: Engage in relaxing or mindless activities.
Example: I’ll just veg out in front of the TV.
7. Lounge around
Meaning: Relax and spend time doing very little.
Example: We lounged around the pool all day.
8. Put your feet up
Meaning: Relax by sitting or lying down comfortably.
Example: Put your feet up and stay awhile.
9. Zone out
Meaning: Detach from reality and relax completely.
Example: He zoned out listening to music.
10. Unwind
Meaning: Relax after a period of work or tension.
Example: She unwinds with yoga after work.
11. Mellow out
Meaning: Relax and take things calmly.
Example: Just mellow out; everything’s fine.
12. Take a breather
Meaning: Pause from activity to relax.
Example: Let’s take a breather for a minute.
13. Take five
Meaning: Take a short break from work.
Example: I need to take five and clear my head.
14. Cool your jets
Meaning: Calm down and relax.
Example: Cool your jets, we have plenty of time.
15. Idle away
Meaning: Spend time lazily.
Example: He idled away his Sunday reading.
16. Put up one’s feet
Meaning: Rest and relax.
Example: She put up her feet after the hike.
17. Sit back
Meaning: Relax and not get involved.
Example: Sit back and enjoy the movie.
18. Take the edge off
Meaning: Relax or reduce intensity.
Example: A walk can take the edge off stress.
19. Wind down
Meaning: Gradually relax after stress.
Example: Wind down with some gentle music.
20. Lay back
Meaning: Relax or recline comfortably.
Example: He laid back in his favorite chair.