Go Out Like A Light – Idiom of the Day for IELTS Speaking

When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, using idiomatic expressions naturally and correctly can boost your score, particularly in the Lexical Resource criterion. Today’s idiom, "Go Out Like a Light," is a useful expression to learn and apply when talking about sleep, tiredness, or exhaustion.

Meaning of 'Go Out Like a Light'

Definition:
To fall asleep very quickly and deeply, usually because of being extremely tired.

In simpler terms, when someone “goes out like a light,” it means they fall asleep almost instantly, often as soon as they lie down.

Origin of the Idiom 'Go Out Like a Light'

The idiom has been used in English since the 20th century. The image comes from how quickly a light goes out when switched off, symbolising how fast a person can fall asleep. Over time, it became a common metaphor to describe immediate, deep sleep.

Usage of 'Go Out Like a Light' in Context

Here are some example sentences showing how the idiom is used in the IELTS Speaking: 

• “After a long working day, I went out like a light as soon as my head hit the pillow.”
• “Children usually go out like a light after playing outdoors all day.”
• “She was exhausted after finishing her project, so she went out like a light the moment she lay down.”

When to Use the Idiom 'Go Out Like a Light'

You can use “go out like a light” in IELTS Speaking Part 1 or IELTS Speaking Part 2 or IELTS Speaking Part 3, when you’re:

• Talking about sleeping habits.
• Describing experiences of tiredness or exhaustion.
• Narrating situations where you fell asleep quickly.

Idiom Scenarios

Scenario 1:
John: You look so tired. How was work?
Emma: Honestly, I was so exhausted. Last night, I went out like a light the moment I lay down.

Scenario 2:
Mark: Did your baby sleep well yesterday?
Sophie: Yes, thankfully! She went out like a light after playing all evening.

Sample Answer Using the Idiom 'Go Out Like a Light'

IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Describe the first thing you want to do after you finish your work or study. Try to use this idiom in your answer.
You should say:

• What it is
• How you do it
• How you feel when you do it
• And explain why you want to do it

Sample Answer:

The first thing I want to do after finishing my studies is take a nap. I usually just lie down on my bed, switch off the lights, and within a few minutes, I go out like a light. Whenever I do this, I feel completely relaxed and recharged, as if all the stress from studying disappears. I want to do it because it gives me energy to stay active and focus better for the rest of the day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid while Using 'Go Out Like a Light'

• Don’t confuse it with “turn off the lights” – it has nothing to do with electricity.
• Avoid using it in contexts unrelated to sleep or tiredness.
• Remember it suggests quick and deep sleep, not just ordinary rest.

IELTS Vocabulary Tip for 'Go Out Like a Light'

Using idioms like “go out like a light” in your IELTS Speaking answers makes your language more natural and engaging. It’s especially effective in answers about routines, health, or lifestyle. Just make sure it fits the context naturally.

Exercise: 'Go Out Like a Light'

Multiple-Choice Question
Q1: What does “go out like a light” mean in the sentence below?
“The little boy went out like a light as soon as he went to bed.”

a) Turned off the light
b) Fell asleep very quickly
c) Woke up suddenly
d) Felt energetic

Correct Answer: b) Fell asleep very quickly

Fill-in-the-Blank
Q2: “After the exhausting journey, I __________.”

a) Went out like a light
b) Broke the ice
c) Faced the music
d) Called it a day

Correct Answer: a) Went out like a light

To summarize, “go out like a light” is a versatile idiom that can make your IELTS Speaking answers sound more authentic and expressive. Whether you’re describing sleep habits, routines, or exhaustion, this idiom can help you stand out. Just be sure to use it appropriately. If you're aiming for top scores, follow the IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+ to further enhance your vocabulary and overall test performance.

Also Check: 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
• IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
• 10 Useful IELTS Speaking Tips to Impress the Examiner
• Useful Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Score Band 8.0+