The Ministry of Higher and secondary education of the Republic of Uzbekistan State World Languages University

2.2. Phrases, Idioms in English About Cities, Places and Events
There are many English idioms, phrases that you might not be familiar with. An idiom is a phrase or an expression that has a particular meaning that differs from the meaning of the individual words, e.g. if someone said “you’ve bitten off more than you can chew”- they are saying that you have tried to do something that is too difficult for you. Phrases, Idioms in English About Cities, Places and Events⁷
Act of God
This phrase is used to describe an event that humans did not cause and are not responsible for (such as an earthquake, flood, tornado, etc.).
For example, The insurance company refused to pay for the damage caused by the flood last night because it was considered an act of God.
Clean as a whistle
This English idiom just means that something is immaculate. It can also be used to describe a person or thing that is completely honest and legal.
For example, Bob was genuinely amused when he saw that his room was clean as a whistle.
Cut and dried
When something is described as “cut and dried,” it means that it is evident, understandable, and uncomplicated.
For example: When Maggie arrived at the central office, she didn’t find the situation as cut and dried as she had expected.
Been through the war
This English idiom is used to describe a place or thing that shows signs of a lot of use or is significantly damaged.
For example, That house looked as though it had been through the war.⁸
Dead as a dodo
The meaning of this English idiom is quite simple. It is used to describe something that is out of fashion or out of date; something that is not important or relevant anymore. A dodo is a type of bird that is now extinct.
For example, The floppy disk is an invention that is now dead as a dodo.
Hive of activity
A “hive of activity” is a place where a lot is happening, and everyone present is busy doing something.
For example: When we went to offer help, the kitchen was already a hive of activity.
Second to none
This English idiom means “the best; better than everything else (in a certain group or category).”
For example, The food at Ali’s restaurant is second to none. I love that place!
Worth its weight in gold
When something or someone is “worth its (or his/her) weight in gold,” it means that it is very valuable and useful.
For example, We couldn’t run the company without him. He’s worth his weight in gold.
Middle of nowhere
This idiom is used to describe a place that is very remote, far from any city or town.
For example, The campsite was in the middle of nowhere so I couldn’t phone you.
English Adjectives Used to Describe Places and Locations

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  Ancient/historical (like Egypt)
  
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  Lively/vibrant (like Barcelona or Los Angeles)
  
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  Dull/boring
  
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  Attractive / beautiful / lovely (like Agra)
  
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  Bustling / very crowded and busy (like New York or Mumbai)
  
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  Contemporary / modern / up to date (like Manchester or Singapore)
  
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  Picturesque/charming (like Istanbul)
  
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  Touristy (like Niagara Falls)
  
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  Sprawling (used to describe a big city)