Butterflies in Your Stomach — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

A light, nervous feeling in your stomach.

You get butterflies in your stomach when you are excited or worried about what is coming.

It can feel good before something you want, or bad before something you dread.

Use it when…

When someone is about to do something exciting or high-stakes
When nervous energy builds before a performance, presentation, or important meeting
When describing the physical feeling of anticipation before a first date or big moment

Don’t confuse with...

"Knot in Your Stomach"

—

A tighter, heavier feeling linked to dread or worry — butterflies are lighter, more mixed with excitement

"On Edge"

—

Feeling tense and anxious — butterflies in your stomach is a more physical, visceral description

"Butterflies in Your Stomach"

—

A fluttery, nervous sensation in the stomach caused by excitement or anticipation

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Butterflies in Your Stomach" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

Every time she walks into a big pitch, she gets butterflies in her stomach — even after all these years.

Relationships & Social Life

Friends

He had butterflies in his stomach all morning before the wedding — happy nerves, he said.

Media & Everyday Life

TV Shows / Movies

Every night before I go on stage, I get butterflies. That's how I know I still care.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Butterflies in Your Stomach" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Meetings

Boss

You ready for the big presentation?

You

Almost — I've got butterflies in my stomach, but in a good way. I'm ready.

Relationships

Honest conversations

Friend

Are you nervous about the interview?

You

I have butterflies in my stomach, but I think that means I want it enough.

Everyday Conversations

Storytelling

Friend

What was it like backstage before the show?

You

Butterflies in my stomach the whole time. The moment I stepped out, they disappeared.

‹›

Last updated:

October 4, 2026

Become an Insider

Get exclusive invitations to try our new English online courses FOR FREE.

Enjoy special discounts and unique offers for club members only!

Become an Insider

Tell us a bit about you to unlock more relevant content and insider perks.

Where do you want to improve your English?*

Helps us tailor content to you.

Select an option

Where are you based? (optional)

Select country

What's your native language? (optional)

Select language

First Name (optional)

I consent to theidiomdaily.com collecting and storing my data for the purpose of sending newsletters, updates, and promotional content. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time by using the link provided in the emails. By checking this box, I agree to the Privacy Policy.

You’re in! Welcome to
the Insider Club.

Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again.

Unsubscribe
anytime.

Trusted by

1M+

English learners &
teachers worldwide