- Terms like ‘Oh my God’ and ‘God forbid’ are a large part of our everyday language
- These sacred terms extend beyond religious contexts to express various feelings and emotions
Have you ever experienced a blessing in disguise? Photo: Shutterstock “Oh my God, that was a big sneeze! Bless you!” English slang and idioms associated with God serve many purposes in our daily conversations. These sacred terms extend beyond religious contexts to express surprise, gratitude, and frustration; they can even be used to reference natural disasters. Here are nine idioms related to religion that can inject a little spirit into your writing.
1. A blessing in disguise
Meaning: a situation or event that initially appears to be unfortunate or negative but eventually brings unexpected benefits
Example: Getting rejected from her dream university was a blessing in disguise for Emma, as it led her to discover an alternative school that better fit her interests.
2. Act of God
Meaning: a natural event that cannot be controlled or prevented by humans, especially one that causes a lot of damage
Example: The insurance policy does not cover damage caused by acts of God, such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
3. Baptism of fire
Meaning: a person or group’s first experience of a new situation that is very difficult or unpleasant
Example: Joseph faced a baptism of fire in his first week on the job when he was assigned to handle a highly demanding client.
4. Give the devil his due
Meaning: to acknowledge someone’s positive qualities even if you generally don’t like them as a person
Example: Although the artist’s private life has faced controversy, we must give the devil his due by recognising his musical talent.
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5. Faith can move mountains
Meaning: one’s strong belief has the power to help overcome seemingly impossible obstacles
Example: Despite the challenge, the deaf dancer’s effort and passion won him first place at the World Dance Championship, showing that faith can move mountains.
6. Bear one’s cross
Meaning: to live with a responsibility or an unpleasant situation
Example: As a single mum, Lisa bears her cross, sacrificing her time and energy to provide the best care for her children.
7. God forbid
Meaning: expressing a strong desire for something not to happen
Example: James bought insurance for his children to protect them from, God forbid, any accidents.
8. Speak of the devil
Meaning: a phrase said when the person you were talking about appears unexpectedly
Example: Have you seen Alison today? Oh, speak of the devil, here she is.
9. In God’s/heaven’s name
Meaning: used to convey surprise, frustration, or a strong request for an explanation
Example: Why in God’s name would you leave the door unlocked overnight?