English Idiom – In someone’s black books.
Meaning – To be out of favour with someone. If you are in somebody’s black books you are in trouble with them. You may have done something to annoy or upset them.
Idioms with the Colour Black:
- Black and blue – To be bruised all over.
- Black and white – Used to describe something clearly defined, without any room for ambiguity.
- Black eye – To have a visible bruise around your eye.
- Black market – Illegal trading of goods or services.
- Black sheep of the family – Used to describe a person in a group or family that does not fit in with the other members.
- Black tie event – A formal event.
- In the black – To be making a profit or to be successful.
- Pitch black – Completely dark.
Usage:
When could you use this idiom?
- Your forgot to do something for your partner.
- Somebody has upset you.
- A person is in a bad mood with you.
- Your best friend forgot your birthday!
Example:
- “Jack is in my black books because I caught him chatting-up the waitress again!”
Discuss:
- Is there an idiom like this in your country?
What is an idiom?
An idiom is a word or phrase that is not taken literally. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words, but has a separate meaning of its own.
What is FunkyEnglish?
FunkyEnglish is a website that helps you improve your English. We offer quick lessons that teach idioms, slang, phrasal verbs and more. Visit our homepage to see our latest articles, or use the menu to find specific content!