1. stop/quit (something) cold turkey:

This phrase means to stop something completely and abruptly, often referring to quitting smoking or other addictive habits like drinking, gambling, and playing video games.

For example: 'I used to drink 5 cups of coffee a day, but I decided to quit cold turkey last week. Now, I only drink herbal tea.'

2. blood runs cold:

This phrase describes a sudden feeling of extreme fear, panic, or terror.

For example: 'My blood ran cold when I realized I had left the front door wide open all night.'

3. give someone the cold shoulder:

This idiom means to treat someone unfriendlily or to ignore them, often due to dislike.

For example: 'I thought we were friends, but Sarah has been giving me the cold shoulder since our argument yesterday.'

4. out cold:

This phrase refers to someone who is sleeping very deeply or is unconscious.

For example: 'After the long hiking trip, Minh sat down on the sofa and was out cold within minutes.'

Hanoi residents in the cold. Photo: Giang Huy.

Hanoi residents in the cold. Photo: Giang Huy.

5. get cold feet:

This phrase describes feeling nervous or fearful about a pre-planned event, which might cause someone to abandon their initial intention.

For example: 'He was supposed to give a speech at the wedding, but he got cold feet at the last minute and asked me to do it.'

6. cold comfort:

Meaning 'superficial comfort', this phrase refers to things that seem like they might make someone feel better, but in reality, do not.

For example: 'Getting the 1 million USD life insurance benefit was cold comfort after her husband died.'

7. a cold one:

This is a slang term for a cold can of beer.

For example: 'After a hard day’s work I just like to relax on the couch with a cold one.'

8. pour/throw cold water on something:

This idiom describes an action that discourages or reduces enthusiasm for something.

For example: 'I was so excited about my new business idea, but my boss poured cold water on it by pointing out all the risks.'

Khanh Linh