Expressing Frequency: “Once in a Blue Moon”

Today, we’re exploring the idiomatic expression “Once in a blue moon” to help you describe rare occurrences in a more vivid and engaging way.

“Once in a blue moon” is a phrase used to indicate something that happens very rarely. It’s perfect for describing infrequent events or actions, especially useful in IELTS speaking and writing tasks, job interviews, and everyday conversations.

Examples of Usage
  • “He visits his hometown once in a blue moon since he lives abroad.”
    • Describes a rare visit to his hometown.
  • “Such a mistake happens once in a blue moon at our company.”
    • Indicates that mistakes are very rare.

This idiom is similar to “rarely,” but “once in a blue moon” adds a more idiomatic and colorful touch to your language, making your descriptions more engaging.

English idiom Once in a blue moon from Ajarn Ken

Practice Makes Perfect

To get comfortable using “once in a blue moon,” try incorporating it into your daily conversations and writing. Here are a few practice sentences:

  1. “We go out for dinner once in a blue moon because we prefer cooking at home.”
  2. “She buys expensive clothes once in a blue moon, usually only for special occasions.”

The more you use idiomatic expressions, the more natural they will become in your language repertoire.

Conclusion

Next time you need to describe something that happens rarely, try using “once in a blue moon” to add a more vivid and idiomatic touch to your English. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to use this and other expressions confidently in your conversations and writing tasks.

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