Death idioms are phrases that express how we perceive and talk about mortality. I share 16 idioms about death, each with a clear meaning and example.
From humorous phrases like “pushing up daisies” to somber expressions like “passed away,” we cover a range of idioms used in different contexts. This overview will help you understand these idioms’ meanings and how to use them effectively.
Whether you’re dealing with loss or discussing life’s unpredictability, these idioms offer valuable perspectives. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of death-related idioms.
List Of 16 Idioms For Death
- Pushing up daisies
- Kick the bucket
- Bite the dust
- Bought the farm
- Passed away
- Departed
- Gone to a better place
- No longer with us
- Heartbroken
- Grief-stricken
- In mourning
- Beside oneself with grief
- Circle of life
- Life and death struggle
- Death sentence
- Life after death
Funny Idioms for Life
Pushing up daisies
Meaning: Dead and buried.
Example: “If he keeps driving like that, he’ll be pushing up daisies soon.”
Kick the bucket
Meaning: Die.
Example: “Grandpa kicked the bucket at 90.”
Bite the dust
Meaning: Die or fail.
Example: “Another villain bites the dust in the movie.”
Bought the farm
Meaning: Died.
Example: “He bought the farm in a car crash.”
Idioms for Someone Died
Passed away
Meaning: Died.
Example: “My uncle passed away last night.”
Departed
Meaning: Died.
Example: “She remembered her departed friend fondly.”
Gone to a better place
Meaning: Died peacefully.
Example: “We believe he’s gone to a better place.”
No longer with us
Meaning: Died.
Example: “She is no longer with us, but her memory lives on.”
Idioms for Death of Loved One
Heartbroken
Meaning: Deeply saddened.
Example: “I was heartbroken when my dog died.”
Grief-stricken
Meaning: Overcome with sorrow.
Example: “She was grief-stricken after her father’s death.”
In mourning
Meaning: Grieving.
Example: “He is in mourning after his wife’s passing.”
Beside oneself with grief
Meaning: Extremely sad.
Example: “She was beside herself with grief when her mother died.”
Idioms for Death and Life
Circle of life
Meaning: Life and death cycle.
Example: “The circle of life continues with each generation.”
Life and death struggle
Meaning: Critical battle.
Example: “The soldiers were in a life and death struggle.”
Death sentence
Meaning: Fatal decision.
Example: “Ignoring health warnings was a death sentence.”
Life after death
Meaning: Existence after dying.
Example: “He believes in life after death.”
What do idioms about death mean?
Death idioms examples convey thoughts and emotions about mortality. They reflect cultural views on death and dying. Phrases like “kick the bucket” mean someone died, while “pushing up daisies” humorously indicates being buried.
How can I use death idioms in conversation?
Use death idioms to express feelings or narrate events involving death. For instance, say “passed away” to gently inform someone of a death or “gone to a better place” to comfort someone grieving.
Are there funny death idioms?
Yes, some death idioms are humorous. “Bite the dust” or “bought the farm” add lightness to serious topics. These idioms make discussions about death less somber.
