The Last Straw - Idiom of the Day for IELTS

Language is rich with idiomatic expressions that add depth and color to everyday conversations. One such commonly used idiom is ‘the last straw’. This phrase is especially popular in both casual and professional discussions, which is make it perfect for the IELTS exam.

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

The Last Straw: Meaning

‘The last straw’, or ‘the final straw’ refers to the final in a series of irritating or annoying events that cause someone to lose their patience or take decisive action. It signifies the breaking point, the moment when a situation can no longer be tolerated.

The Last Straw: Origin

The idiom comes from the proverb, ‘It is the last straw that breaks the camel’s back’. This metaphorical phrase originates from the idea that a camel, a strong and sturdy animal, can carry heavy loads. However, if you keep adding weight, even a single straw — seemingly light and insignificant — can become the tipping point and break the camel's back. 

This expression has been in use in English since the 17th century, symbolizing the cumulative effect of small burdens. Over time, the phrase was shortened to just ‘the last straw’.

The Last Straw: Examples

In IELTS Speaking, incorporating idioms such as 'throw money down the drain' improves fluency, showcases English proficiency, and expands your IELTS vocabulary. 

Here are some examples of how ‘the last straw’ is used:

• When my boss blamed me for the mistake I didn’t make, it was the last straw. I quit the next day.
• The noisy neighbors, the leaking roof, and now no running water. This is the last straw!
• She had been tolerating his rude behavior for months, but forgetting her birthday was the last straw.

The Last Straw: Exercises

1 What does the idiom “the last straw” refer to?

A) A piece of straw that’s last in the pile

B) A decision made after deep thinking

C) The final small annoyance that causes a big reaction

D) An important legal document

2 Choose the sentence that correctly uses “the last straw’.

A) I saved the last straw for my smoothie.

B) The last straw is always the heaviest.

C) She didn’t mind the delays, but the rude email was the last straw.

D) I broke the straw because it was the last one.

3 Fill the gap: If you don’t change your language, it will be the last ……. I talk with you, Dannie.

A) Time.

B) Chance.

C) Straw.

D) Conversation.

4 Which is the meaning of ‘the last straw’?

A) The last thing you can hold.

B) The last time before something change.

C) The last straw you could see.

D) The last chance for somebody.

Answers

1 C

2 C

3 C

4 A

The idiom ‘the last straw’ is a powerful way to express reaching the limit of endurance or patience. By learning and using such idiomatic expressions, English learners can sound more fluent, expressive, and natural in their conversations. Remember, it's often the small things that can push someone over the edge — and that’s exactly what this idiom captures.

Useful Links:

• Useful Idioms for IELTS to Score Band 8.0+
• Common Idioms List for IELTS Speaking
• Useful Idioms & Expressions About Happiness And Anger for IELTS Speaking 
• 25 Common Idioms in IELTS Speaking (Part 3/5) 
• Useful Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking (with Meaning & Examples)