10 idioms about stars to help you shoot for the moon in your writing

Published: 
Listen to this article
  • From star-crossed lovers to hitching a wagon to a star, get inspired by this sparkly symbol of high achievement
  • Take this as a sign that your star might just be rising
Sue Ng |
Published: 
Comment

Latest Articles

Hong Kong university orientation camps need more supervision, lawmakers say

Nasa’s Ingenuity helicopter has sent final message from red planet to Earth

Science competition recognises student innovations that integrate testing

Hong Kong students need more encouragement to study Chinese history, says expert

Do you believe your fate is written in the stars? Photo: Shutterstock

It’s the time of year when Hong Kong secondary school students fight their last battle – taking their university entrance exams. As many of them are reaching for the stars, let’s go over some idioms inspired by this symbol of high achievement.

1. Hitch a wagon to a star

Meaning: to pursue grand or lofty goals for yourself, often by partnering with someone or something that is already successful or revered

Example: When I was trying to become a screenwriter, I hitched my wagon to a star by befriending some popular actresses.

2. Lucky star

Meaning: a person or thing that brings you aid, good fortune or good luck

Example: My mum is my lucky star. There’s no way I could have made it through my exams without her.

9 idioms from hit songs to help you raise the bar on your writing

3. Reach for the stars

Meaning: to have high or ambitious aims

Example: When making a career move, don’t be afraid to reach for the stars.

4. Stars in your eyes

Meaning: to be very hopeful and excited about something and think that it will be much better or more enjoyable than it actually is

Example: When she left home, she had stars in her eyes about the exhibition she was going to see.

Wait until the stars in your eyes fade before you buy something new – your piggy bank will thank you for making smart purchases! Photo: Shutterstock

5. Stars have aligned

Meaning: describes when a situation is very good or lucky, or becomes completely right in order for something to happen

Example: The stars have aligned to make this victory possible.

6. Star-struck

Meaning: fascinated or greatly impressed by famous people, especially those connected with the cinema or the theatre

Example: I know she’s famous, but try not to act star-struck when you meet her.

20 weather idioms that will put you on cloud nine

7. Star is rising

Meaning: describes when someone is on the way to great fame or fortune

Example: It’s clear the actress’s star is rising, as she is now confirmed for three blockbuster films over the next few years.

8. Star-studded

Meaning: featuring a number of famous people, such as actors or athletes

Example: This film with a star-studded cast is the only thing people are talking about these days.

Is it really a star-studded event if your eyes aren’t blinded by the flash from all the cameras? Photo: Shutterstock

9. Written in the stars

Meaning: destined to be

Example: It was written in the stars that they would meet and fall in love.

10. Star-crossed lovers

Meaning: any lovers whose affection for each other is doomed to end in tragedy

Example: Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet play star-crossed lovers in Titanic.

Sign up for the YP Teachers Newsletter
Get updates for teachers sent directly to your inbox
By registering, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy
Comment