Forty Winks - Idiom of the day for the IELTS

Making use of suitable idioms in your speech while conversing in English in an everyday setting will clearly enhance the way you convey an intended message. 

One of the commonly used idioms these days is ‘Forty Winks.’ This is especially used by many in both casual and professional discussions, mainly when talking about a short sleep or nap during the day and not a longer one; and that is what makes it perfect for the IELTS exam.

In this article of ours, we will learn the meaning, origin, and usage of the ‘Forty Winks’ idiom, along with examples of how to use it to your advantage when preparing for the IELTS Speaking and Writing.

Meaning of the ‘Forty Winks’ IELTS Idiom

This particular idiom “forty winks” means to take a short nap or light sleep, and it is usually taken during the day. It does not directly refer to a full night’s rest but rather to a quick doze in order to refresh oneself.

In the IELTS Speaking or Writing, this specific idiom is really useful when describing daily routines, relaxation habits, or even strategies to cope with the tiredness and stress. 

This shows the examiner that you are able to use natural, conversational English just to describe everyday life fluently with idiomatic expressions. 

For example:

“Before my IELTS test, I managed to get a forty winks to feel more relaxed and prepared.”

Where Did the Idiom ‘Forty Winks’ Come From?

This phrase dates back to the early 19th century in the country of England. The word “winks” here directly refers to the brief closing of the eyes, that happens during sleep. The number “forty” was never meant literally but was usually used in English to suggest a large or sufficient amount. Hence, “forty winks” came to mean a decent and short nap during the day time. 

Over the time, this became a common idiom to describe resting briefly in order to regain energy.

Synonyms of the ‘Forty Winks’ Idiom

• A short nap
• A little doze
• A snooze
• Catnap
• Power nap
• Resting
• Short sleep

Antonyms of the ‘Forty Winks’ Idiom

• Stay awake
• Being restless
• Sleeplessness
• Insomnia
• Lacking of rest

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using the ‘Forty Winks’ Idiom

• Using it to refer to a full night’s sleep 

It only refers to a short nap, not sleeping overnight.

• Taking it in a literal sense 

It does not mean literally “winking” 40 times.

• Using it while in formal writing 

The idiom is more suitable for the IELTS Speaking test or in informal contexts.

• Mixing it with numbers  

Do not say “twenty winks” or “fifty winks.” This idiom is only fixed as “forty winks.”

A Sample Scenario to Use the Idiom ‘Forty Winks’

In the IELTS Speaking Part 1, if you are asked about your daily routine, you can say:

“I tend to take forty winks usually in the afternoon if I have been continuously studying for a long time since the morning. This helps me feel refreshed and concentrate on my studies better afterwards.”

Examples to Understand the Usage of the ‘Forty Winks’ Idiom in Sentences

• After finishing her homework, she decided to take forty winks before dinner.
• She usually catches forty winks during her lunch break at work.
• Her baby finally took forty winks, giving his parents some rest.
• I always feel much better after forty winks in the afternoons.
• He looked tired, so she suggested he get forty winks before the office meeting.
• I need forty winks before I start to study for the IELTS test again.
• She just had time to put her feet up and catch fortywinks before dinner.

Also Check:

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• Common Idioms List for IELTS Speaking  
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• Once in a Blue Moon Idiom: Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
• A Leopard Cannot Change His Spots – Idiom of the Day for IELTS  
• Play It By Ear Idiom: Meaning, Origin, Usage & Exercises  
• The most Common Idioms to Boost Your IELTS Score – Topic : Help and encouragement