Today, we’re diving into idioms that are all about excitement! These expressions are like the sprinkles on your ice cream—they add flavor and fun to what you’re saying.
So, if you’ve ever been “on cloud nine” or felt like you’re “busting at the seams” with excitement, stick around. We’re about to make your conversations a whole lot more thrilling!
Popular Idioms
1. Jumping for Joy
When someone is “jumping for joy,” they are extremely happy or excited. The phrase paints a picture of someone so thrilled that they could literally jump up and down. It’s often used to express a peak level of happiness about some good news or a positive event.
2. On Cloud Nine
This idiom means you’re feeling elated or extremely happy. The phrase suggests that you’re so uplifted you’re up in the clouds, specifically on the ninth one, which is supposed to be the happiest place of all. People often say this when something really good has happened to them.
3. Over the Moon
When someone is “over the moon,” they are very happy or thrilled about something. The idea is that you’re so excited you could jump over the moon, like the cow in the nursery rhyme. You’ll hear this phrase often when people are talking about good news or achievements.
4. Walking on Air
This idiom means that someone is so happy they feel as if they’re floating. When someone says they are “walking on air,” they are talking about a kind of happiness that makes all the troubles and worries seem unimportant.
5. Tickled Pink
When you’re “tickled pink,” you’re extremely pleased or delighted. The phrase suggests that the excitement is so intense it’s as if you’re being tickled, and you can’t help but smile or laugh.
6. Thrilled to Bits
This means that someone is extremely happy or excited. The “bits” part of the idiom suggests that every part of you is thrilled, right down to the little pieces.
7. Full of Beans
Being “full of beans” means you’re lively, energetic, and excited. This idiom might come from the idea that beans are a food that gives you energy, so someone full of them would naturally be peppy and excited.
8. On Pins and Needles
This idiom usually means you’re anxious but excited while waiting for something. If you’re “on pins and needles,” you’re so eager to know what’s going to happen that it’s like sitting on something pointy—it’s uncomfortable, but the anticipation keeps you alert.
9. Buzzing Like a Bee
When someone is “buzzing like a bee,” they are full of energy and excitement. The phrase suggests that, like a busy bee, the person can’t contain their enthusiasm and is buzzing around from one thing to another.
10. Eyes Lit Up
If someone’s “eyes lit up,” it means they suddenly became very excited or happy. This phrase describes how someone’s eyes might actually seem to shine or sparkle when they’re excited about something.
11. Like a Kid in a Candy Store
This idiom means you’re extremely excited and maybe even a little overwhelmed by all the good things around you. It’s like how a child would feel surrounded by candy; you can hardly believe your luck and don’t know where to start.
12. Bouncing Off the Walls
When someone is “bouncing off the walls,” they are so excited or energetic that they can’t contain themselves. It’s as if they’re so full of energy that they could bounce off the walls like a rubber ball.
13. All Fired Up
Being “all fired up” means you’re extremely excited or enthusiastic about something. The phrase suggests you’re so heated with excitement that you’re like a fire, ready to burst into action.
14. A Bundle of Nerves
This one means you’re very nervous but also excited. The “bundle” part suggests that all your nerves are tied up together because you’re so anxious and thrilled about what’s going to happen.
15. Sky-high
When your excitement is “sky-high,” it means it’s at an extremely high level. This idiom suggests that your excitement has no limits and is soaring way up into the sky.
16. Chomping at the Bit
This phrase means you’re so eager or excited that you can hardly wait. It comes from the world of horses, where a horse that’s eager to get going might literally chomp on the bit in its mouth.
17. Pumped Up
To be “pumped up” means to be very excited and full of energy. This phrase often comes from sports or exercise, where pumping up your muscles makes you ready and strong for action.
18. Raring to Go
This means you’re very eager and excited to start something. When you’re “raring to go,” it’s like you’re a car engine that’s been revved up and is just waiting for the chance to speed off.
19. As Happy as a Clam
This idiom means you’re very content and happy, but it’s often used when someone is pleased and excited about a specific thing. The original expression was “as happy as a clam at high water,” where the clam is safe from being harvested.
20. In Seventh Heaven
To be “in seventh heaven” is to be extremely happy or in a state of bliss. The phrase has religious origins, referring to the highest of the seven heavens in Islamic and Jewish belief, but it’s generally used to mean extreme happiness these days.
New and Trendy Idioms
21. Lit Up Like a Christmas Tree
When someone is “lit up like a Christmas tree,” they’re incredibly excited or joyful. Just like a brightly lit Christmas tree grabs your attention, a person who is this excited stands out in a crowd and seems to glow with happiness.
22. Feeling the Vibe
To “feel the vibe” means you’re picking up on the energy or excitement of a situation. You’re not just standing on the sidelines; you’re totally involved and really digging into whatever’s going on.
23. Stoked
If you’re “stoked,” you’re really excited and looking forward to something. This term originally comes from surf culture but has been widely adopted to describe a high level of enthusiasm for anything you’re passionate about.
24. Getting Hyped
To “get hyped” means to get really excited and enthusiastic about something that’s about to happen. The anticipation builds up, and you can’t wait for the event or moment to finally come.
25. Turnt
If you’re “turnt,” you’re extremely excited and possibly even a bit wild. This term is often used to describe the feeling of being at a great party or event where the energy level is high.
26. Jazzed Up
When you’re “jazzed up,” you’re excited and full of energy. The term suggests that just like upbeat jazz music, you’re lively, happy, and ready for anything.
27. Gassed
To be “gassed” means you’re thrilled or very excited about something. The idea is that you’re so excited you’re filled up like a tank of gas and ready to go.
28. Amped
Being “amped” means you’re filled with energy and excitement. It’s like your emotional volume has been turned up, and you can’t help but be pumped about what’s happening or what’s going to happen.
29. Buzzing
If you’re “buzzing,” you’re vibrating with excitement or anticipation. This is a more recent way to describe being so excited that it’s like you’re buzzing like an electrical current.
30. In the Zone
Being “in the zone” means you’re so engrossed in what you’re doing that you’re not just excited; you’re performing at your best. The excitement fuels your actions, making you more productive or effective than usual.
31. On Fleek
While often used to describe something that’s perfect or flawless, like eyebrows, being “on fleek” can also mean you’re excited and feel like you’re at the top of your game. Everything is going just right.
32. Riding the Wave
To “ride the wave” means you’re going along with a good or exciting thing that’s happening. You’re not just excited; you’re using that energy to carry you forward like a wave carries a surfer.
33. Off the Hook
If something is “off the hook,” it’s extremely exciting or fun. This idiom means that an event or situation is so exciting that it’s as if it has been unhooked from any limitations or dullness.
34. Feeling Yourself
When you’re “feeling yourself,” you’re feeling super confident and excited. You’re enjoying how great you look or feel and are excited about the positive vibes you’re sending out.
35. Through the Roof
If your excitement is “through the roof,” it means it’s so high that it could go through the ceiling. This is often used to describe extreme levels of excitement that are almost too hard to contain.
36. Living for It
If you’re “living for it,” you’re so excited and passionate about something that it feels like the reason you’re alive. This expression is often used to talk about a life-changing experience or revelation that excites you deeply.
37. Juiced
To be “juiced” means you’re excited or thrilled, almost as if you’ve had a shot of energy-boosting juice. This idiom is often used to describe the feeling of being super pumped about something that’s about to happen.
38. Epic
Calling something “epic” means you find it extremely exciting and extraordinary. The term is often used for something that’s not just good but grand and exciting in a way that feels larger than life.
39. Feeling the Buzz
To “feel the buzz” means you’re feeling the excitement in the air. This can be in anticipation of an event or because you’re in a situation that is full of energy and excitement.
40. Cray-Cray
Short for “crazy,” when you say something is “cray-cray,” you mean it’s wildly exciting or unbelievable. It’s a fun, informal way to express that you’re incredibly excited about something to the point where it almost feels crazy.
Animal-Inspired Idioms
41. Eager Beaver
This idiom describes someone who is very excited about doing a particular task and shows a lot of enthusiasm. Beavers are known for being hard workers, so this term compares a person’s zeal to a beaver’s diligence.
42. Let the Cat Out of the Bag
This idiom refers to revealing a secret, often one that is exciting or sensational. Once the “cat is out of the bag,” the exciting news is out and can’t be hidden.
43. The Early Bird Gets the Worm
This means that if you do something early or before anyone else, you’ll have an advantage, often causing excitement for being first in line for opportunities.
44. Wild Goose Chase
This refers to a pointless, fruitless task, but the chase aspect can be thrilling and exciting, much like a wild, unpredictable goose chase would be.
45. When Pigs Fly
This idiom is used to say that something will never happen, but discussing or imagining a highly unlikely but exciting event can be thrilling.
46. The Bee’s Knees
This phrase is used to describe something or someone as excellent or outstanding, often invoking a sense of excitement or admiration. It’s like saying that someone or something is the height of excellence.
47. Bird’s-Eye View
This describes a view from above, often offering a broader perspective. The excitement here comes from being able to see everything from a more comprehensive vantage point.
48. A Whale of a Time
This idiom suggests that you’re having an exciting, fantastic time, big enough to be compared to the size of a whale. It’s often used to describe parties, outings, or other enjoyable events.
49. Go Ape Over
This idiom means to become extremely excited or enthusiastic about something. It uses the word ‘ape‘ to describe going wild or crazy with excitement.
50. Ants in Your Pants
This means you’re restless or excited about something. If you have ants in your pants, you can’t sit still because you’re so excited or anxious.
51. Hot to Trot
This is another horse-related idiom that means you’re ready and eager to go, often used to describe someone who’s excited to get started on something.
52. The World is Your Oyster
This means you can achieve anything you want. Oysters often contain pearls, so the world being your oyster suggests endless opportunities, which is exciting.
53. As Excited as a Flea on a Dog
Fleas on a dog are constantly moving and hopping, and this idiom evokes that sense of constant motion and excitement.
54. Excited as a Monkey with a Banana
This means being very thrilled or happy about something. Monkeys love bananas, so the idiom uses this relationship to describe human excitement.
55. Happy as a Lark
Larks are birds known for their melodious songs, especially early in the morning. Being “happy as a lark” means you’re so excited and happy that you feel like singing.
56. As Playful as a Kitten
This idiom implies being very playful and, by extension, excited and happy. Kittens are known for their playful nature, always curious and excited about their surroundings.
57. Dive in Head First Like a Dolphin
This implies that you’re entering a situation with full enthusiasm and no reservations, just as a dolphin dives into the water.
58. Duck to Water
As in, “took to it like a duck to water,” meaning someone has taken to a new situation extremely well and is excited about it.
59. As Snug as a Bug in a Rug
This idiom implies comfort but can also express the joyful excitement one feels when in an extremely comfortable or favorable situation, like a bug safe and sound in a rug.
60. Put a Tiger in Your Tank
This old advertising slogan suggests boosting your energy levels, invoking the power and excitement associated with tigers.
Idioms from Sports and Games
61. Jump the Gun
Originally from track and field, this means starting something too early. In terms of excitement, it describes someone so eager that they can’t wait for the actual start.
62. On the Ball
This means you’re alert and responsive. It comes from sports like soccer or basketball, where being on the ball means you’re in control and excited to make the next play.
63. Hole in One
From golf, a “hole in one” is a perfect shot. When used in other contexts, it means something went perfectly right, which is usually very exciting.
64. Hit a Home Run
This is from baseball and means to achieve something significant. If you hit a home run in life, you’ve done something that gets everyone excited.
65. Full-Court Press
Originating in basketball, this term describes an aggressive defense. In life, it describes a situation where someone is giving their all, generating excitement and intensity.
66. Step Up to the Plate
This means to take responsibility or to take a turn at something, often with excitement and readiness, just like a baseball player stepping up to bat.
67. Throw in the Towel
This comes from boxing and usually means to quit. But before the towel is thrown, there’s usually a heightened sense of excitement about what could happen next.
68. Par for the Course
This means something is normal or expected, and it’s from golf. Knowing you’re at par can bring relief or even excitement if you’ve been struggling.
69. Down to the Wire
This idiom comes from horse racing, and it describes a situation where the outcome is not decided until the very last moment, adding excitement and suspense.
70. Break the Ice
Originally a term from ship navigation, it has been widely used in games and social gatherings to mean starting a conversation to get rid of awkwardness, which often gets people excited to participate.
71. The Ball’s in Your Court
This means it’s your turn to take action. This phrase creates a sense of excitement and anticipation for what you will do next.
72. Knock It Out of the Park
This means to do something exceptionally well. Just like hitting a home run in baseball, it generates excitement.
73. A Game-Changer
This means an event, idea, or procedure that brings a significant shift in the current way of doing or thinking about something. A “game-changer” often brings excitement due to the change in dynamics.
74. Get the Ball Rolling
This means to start something, often something big or important. Initiating a project or idea can create a buzz of excitement.
75. Race Against Time
This means to hurry to do something before a particular time. The pressure of limited time adds a layer of excitement.
76. In Full Swing
This means that something has been going on for a reasonable amount of time and is now very lively. When a party or event is in full swing, the excitement level is high.
77. Full-Court Press
A basketball term, this idiom describes a situation where all resources or efforts are being used. If you’re putting on a “full-court press,” you’re really excited and giving it your all.
78. Hat Trick
In sports like soccer and hockey, a “hat trick” means scoring three goals. In everyday language, it means accomplishing three noteworthy tasks. It brings about excitement as it’s considered a significant achievement.
79. Kick Off
Originating from football (both American and soccer), this term signifies the start of something. When you “kick off” a project or event, it’s the exciting beginning of something new.
80. Catch Someone Off Base
This term also comes from baseball and refers to catching someone unprepared or surprised. It’s an exciting idiom because it shows an unexpected turn of events.
Idioms from Literature and Poetry
81. Turn the Page
This idiom comes from the act of reading a book and signifies moving on to something new or different. When you “turn the page,” you’re excited to start a new chapter in your life.
82. A Brave New World
Borrowed from Shakespeare and later a novel by Aldous Huxley, this phrase suggests an exciting, newly transformed environment or setting. You’d use it when you’re excited about fresh opportunities or radical changes.
83. The Plot Thickens
Often heard in mystery novels, this idiom is used when a situation becomes more complicated or interesting. It signifies that you’re excited to see what will happen next.
84. The Sky’s the Limit
This phrase suggests unlimited possibilities. When you say “the sky’s the limit,” you’re excited about the endless opportunities ahead.
85. Brave New World
Taken from Aldous Huxley’s book, this phrase describes an exciting but potentially dangerous new situation or setting. It’s often used when someone is both excited and anxious about stepping into the unknown.
86. Great Expectations
This phrase comes from Charles Dickens’ novel of the same name. It’s used when someone is excited about the future possibilities and has high hopes for what will happen next.
87. White Whale
From Melville’s “Moby-Dick,” a “white whale” is something you’re obsessed with, something you’ve been excited about for a long time but have never achieved.
88. Break the Ice
Although the origin isn’t definitively literary, this phrase appears in various works and means to get past the awkwardness in social settings. People often use it when they’re excited to make new connections but need to overcome initial social hurdles.
89. Tread on Thin Ice
This phrase has appeared in literature and means taking a risk. When you say you’re “treading on thin ice,” you’re excited but cautious about the next steps you’re taking.
90. Cross the Rubicon
Originating from historical accounts and literary references, this means to pass a point of no return. It’s used when you’re excited and committed to a course of action, knowing there’s no going back.
91. A Fly in the Ointment
Seen in literature and originally from the Bible, this idiom describes a small defect that spoils something valuable or is a source of annoyance. You might use this when you’re excited about something but recognize a small issue that could cause problems.
92. On Tenterhooks
Originating from textile manufacturing but popularized through literature, being “on tenterhooks” means being in a state of suspense. This idiom is often used when you’re excited and anxious about an upcoming event.
93. The Ends of the Earth
Common in many forms of literature, including the Bible, this phrase indicates an extreme or remote location. In a more figurative sense, you might use it when you’re excited about doing whatever it takes to achieve a goal.
94. Twist in the Tale
A common plot device in literature, a “twist in the tale” is an unexpected ending or change in the story. You might say this when you’re excited about an unexpected, usually positive, turn of events.
95. Off the Beaten Path
This idiom appears in travel literature and means a place that is not commonly visited or is secluded. You might say this when you’re excited about exploring a less-known area or idea.
96. The Whole Shebang
Originating from 19th-century American literature, this phrase means the entire thing or the whole matter. It’s used when you’re excited about something and want to emphasize that you’re talking about every single part of it.
97. Hold Your Horses
Found in various pieces of American literature, this idiom means to wait or hold on. While it’s usually cautionary, it can be used when someone is so excited they’re getting ahead of themselves.
98. Take the Bull by the Horns
This idiom appears in various books and articles and means to confront a problem directly. When you use this, you’re excited to tackle a challenge head-on.
99. A Feather in Your Cap
Found in literature and old English folklore, this phrase means an accomplishment that one takes pride in. People use this when they’re excited about a personal achievement.
100. Go Down in Flames
Common in modern literature and movies, this idiom means to fail spectacularly. When used, it means you’re excited but acknowledging the risks involved.