An idiom is a group of words with a figurative, non-literal meaning which can't be deciphered by looking at its individual words. In many cases, idioms started off with literal meanings but lost them as they moved away from their origins. A common example of an idiom is 'give up.
Definition :
So, what exactly is an idiom? An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words that make it up. In other words, when you use an idiom, you're not saying what you literally mean.
SpeakoClub Tip :
When it comes to learning a new language, one of the most difficult things can be mastering the idioms. For many of us, these expressions just don't make sense when translated literally. That's why, in this blog post, we're going to take a look at idioms in vocabulary reference.
Examples of idioms :
if you say to someone "I'm pulling your leg," you're not actually going to grab hold of their leg. Instead, you're joking with them or trying to tease them.
Types :
There are many different types of idioms, but some of the most common include:
• Similes:
These are expressions that use the words "like" or "as" to compare two things.
For example, "She's as stubborn as a mule."
• Metaphors:
These are expressions that make a direct comparison between two things, without using the words "like" or "as."
For example, "He's a snake in the grass."
• Personification:
This is when an inanimate object is given human or people qualities.
For example, "The wind was howling."
• Proverbs: These are well-known sayings that offer advice or wisdom.
For Example, "A stitch in time saves nine."
Common Idioms in English :
1. at the end of the day
This phrase means "in the end." It is often used to summarize or conclude a discussion.
2. back to square one
This phrase means "back to the beginning." It is often used when something has gone wrong and the original plan needs to be scrapped.
3. be in the same boat
This phrase means "to be in the same situation." It is often used when people are in a difficult situation and need to help each other out.
4. break the ice
This phrase means "to start a conversation." It is often used when people are meeting for the first time or when a conversation has been stalled.
5. by the same token
This phrase means "for the same reason." It is often used to introduce a related idea.
6. call a spade a spade
This phrase means "to be honest." It is often used to encourage people to be truthful, even if it is difficult.
7. can't judge a book by its cover
This phrase means "you can't judge something by its appearance." It is often used to remind people not to make assumptions about something or someone.
8. come full circle
This phrase means "to come back to the beginning." It is often used when a process or journey has ended.
9. cost an arm and a leg
This phrase means "to be very expensive." It is often used to describe something that is very costly.
10. cut corners
This phrase means "to take shortcuts." It is often used to describe how someone is trying to save time or money.
Rules using Idioms :
There are a few things to keep in mind when using idioms:
1. Make sure you know what the idiom means.
If you don't know what an idiom means, you won't be able to use it correctly. So, before you start using idioms in your conversations, make sure you research them and learn their meanings.
2. Use them in the right context.
Just like any other type of vocabulary, idioms should be used in the right context. If you use them in the wrong situation, you may not make sense to the person you're speaking to.
3. Don't translate them literally.
As we mentioned earlier, idioms don't always make sense when translated literally.
Conclusion :
The conclusion of an idiom is the meaning of the phrase.Not the words themselves learning the ropes.
