Idioms: what are they? And why should we learn them?
“It’s a strange world of language in which skating on thin ice can get you into hot water.” Franklin P. Jones
Two idioms we use in speech without even thinking about it.
They provoke opposite images when we think about frozen or boiling water, but the meanings are actually similar.
“Skating on thin ice” means a situation is delicate and likely to end in an unpleasant way. It usually refers to doing something risky or dangerous.
“Get into hot water” also means being in a difficult or controversial situation. In this reference, it is likely that you might be criticised or punished.
Most of us will try to avoid either of these extreme situations!
What is an idiom?
An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning.
So, the individual words might not make sense on their own, but together they convey a unique meaning.
In the above examples, we’re not actually taking about ice skating or hot water, just the idea of difficulty and risky consequences.
Why should we learn idioms?
1. Boosts language fluency: Native speakers use idioms frequently, so understanding them helps you follow conversations more naturally. Using idioms in your own speech can make your language more vivid, expressive, and engaging, which can be especially impactful in storytelling, presentations, or speeches
2. Enhances cultural understanding: Idioms often reflect the culture and history of a language. For example, “spilling the beans” means letting a secret slip and is believed to originate in ancient Greece, where people used beans to vote on decisions. If someone accidentally knocked over the jar and the beans spilled, the result would be revealed prematurely!
3. Practical communication: Idioms are common in both conversational and professional language. Understanding them can help you navigate real-life conversations, including meetings, networking, and negotiations. When you know idioms, you’re less likely to feel lost when they come up in conversations, helping you communicate with greater confidence.
If you want to learn more, my 1:1 sessions focus on real-world expressions, phrases and idioms to improve comprehension and confidence hearing and speaking them.
In short, idioms are challenging but rewarding. Soon it will all feel like a piece of cake….easy!