Here is a list of idiomatic expressions using the word black.

As black as a skillet

If something is as black as a skillet, it is very black. The expression ‘as black as a stack of black cats’ means the same.

• Suddenly a figure that was as black as a skillet emerged from behind the tree.
• The boy was as black as a stack of black cats when he returned home.

As black as a sweep

If something is as black as a sweep, it is very dirty and black.

As black as coal

If something is as black as coal, it is very black. The expressions ‘as black as night’ and ‘as black as pitch’ also mean the same.

• My pet dog is as black as coal.

As red as a cherry

If something is as red as a cherry, it is bright red. Other expressions that have the same meaning include: as red as a poppy, as red as a rose, as red as blood and as red as a ruby.

• Her cheeks were as red as a rose.

As white as a ghost

If you are as white as a ghost, you are very pale because you are frightened, shocked or ill. The expressions ‘as white as a sheet’ and ‘as white as the driven snow’ also mean the same.

• I became as white as a ghost when I saw a dark figure moving behind the curtain.