Abstract: In this study, the researchers analyze English and German idioms covering the semantic area for deception. The research is carried out within the boundaries of cognitive-pragmatic approach and aimed at studying and comparing semantic features and pragmatic properties of English and German idioms for deception. The priority is placed on the inner form, attitudinal meaning and discourse functioning of the said idioms. Special attention is given to the ways idioms interact with the context they are used in. The researchers apply contextual analysis to examine the way idioms under study “behave” in discourse and to define the major factors affecting the pragmatic impact in a particular context. The researchers also try to reveal traits in common and differences in the ways English and German Native speakers regard deception in a particular communicative situation.