idioms

[balakrishnanijk]

Could you explain the literal and figurative meanings of the idiom "round the corner" with suitable examples? For example, what is the difference between sentences like "His house is just round the corner" and The election is just round the corner"?

[Delmobile]

They both mean that the object will soon be reached. Literally, a few steps will take you to the house "round the corner." Figuratively, the passing of a few days (or weeks or months, whatever the context) will take all of us to the election "round the corner."


[you and a friend are working on a project]

"I think we should use a bigger piece of posterboard and a red marker."
"Okay, I'll run out and buy some. I won't be long, there's a shop right around the corner. I'll be right back."

[the project is making posters for your candidate]

"These posters look great."

"Yes, but we'll need lots more. Let's try to work on them every night this week---you know, the election is right around the corner. It will be here before we know it."

[native speaker, not a teacher]