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idiom

noun

/ˈɪdɪəm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of idiom

A phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the individual words.
"Kick the bucket' is an idiom that means to die."

Detailed meaning of idiom

Idioms are common in all languages, and are often used in everyday conversation. They can be a source of confusion for language learners because the meaning of an idiom cannot be inferred from the meanings of the individual words. For example, the phrase "kick the bucket" is an idiom that means "to die" and it doesn't involve any physical action of kicking a bucket. Another example is "Break a leg" which is an idiom used to wish someone good luck before a performance, it doesn't involve any physical actions of breaking a leg. Understanding the figurative meaning of idioms requires knowledge of the culture and history of the language.

Example sentences containing idiom

1. "Break a leg" is an idiom that means good luck, often said to actors before a performance.
2. "The ball is in your court" is an idiom that means it is now your turn to take action.
3. "Bite the bullet" is an idiom that means to face a difficult situation with courage.
4. "Cost an arm and a leg" is an idiom that means something is very expensive.
5. "A picture is worth a thousand words" is an idiom that means a visual representation can convey a lot of meaning.
6. "Let the cat out of the bag" is an idiom that means to reveal a secret unintentionally.

History and etymology of idiom

The noun 'idiom' originates from the Greek word 'idioma,' which means 'peculiarity' or 'special feature.' It was derived from 'idios,' meaning 'one's own' or 'private.' This etymology beautifully encapsulates the essence of 'idiom' as it refers to a phrase or expression with a figurative meaning that is distinct and unique, often diverging from the literal meaning of the individual words. 'Idiom' underscores the idea that these linguistic constructs are specific to a particular language or culture, representing a distinct and private way of expressing ideas. The term 'idiom' has retained its connection to the notion of peculiarity, making it an apt description for these language constructs that add richness and depth to communication.

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Further usage examples of idiom

1. "It's not rocket science" is an idiom that means something is not difficult to understand.
2. "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" is an idiom that means it's better to have something certain than to risk losing it for something better.
3. "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is an idiom that means eating healthy can prevent illness.
4. "The ball is in your court" is an idiom that means it's your turn to take action.
5. "Actions speak louder than words" is an idiom that means actions are more important than words.
6. Learning and correctly using idiomatic expressions can be quite challenging for individuals who are not native speakers of a language.
7. "Break a leg," a commonly used theatrical idiom, is often used to wish someone good luck in a performance or endeavor.
8. His skillful use of idioms in his speeches and writing adds a layer of humor and relatability that resonates with his audience.
9. When working on translation projects, it's crucial to not only translate words but also to understand and convey the cultural nuances of idiomatic xpressions.
10. "The ball is in your court" is an idiom that signifies that someone has the responsibility or control over a situation.
11. Idioms, being a part of language, often reflect the history, values, and peculiarities of the culture from which they originate.
12. Figuring out and decoding idiomatic expressions in foreign languages can be both an intellectually stimulating and entertaining exercise.
13. She used the idiom "it's raining cats and dogs" to vividly describe the intensity of the storm, making her story more engaging.
14. Misinterpreting idioms can lead to amusing misunderstandings, showcasing the intricacies of language and culture.
15. "Bite the bullet," an idiom with military origins, is used to encourage someone to bravely face a difficult or unpleasant situation.
16. Teaching idioms to children can be an enjoyable and educational experience, helping them grasp the nuances of language.
17. He seamlessly incorporates idiomatic expressions into his writing, adding depth and authenticity to his characters' dialogue.
18. Recognizing and using idiomatic expressions effectively can greatly enhance your language skills and make your communication more natural.
19. Many idioms draw from historical events, mythical stories, or cultural references, providing a window into the collective consciousness of a society.
20. "The early bird catches the worm" is a well-known idiom that emphasizes the value of being proactive and seizing opportunities.
21. Exploring idioms from different languages not only broadens your linguistic knowledge but also deepens your cultural understanding.
22. He used an idiom to indirectly convey his frustration, demonstrating how idiomatic expressions can allow for subtlety and nuance in communication.
23. Idioms are linguistic gems that add color, imagery, and figurative meaning to language, making it more vibrant and expressive.
24. Understanding and using idiomatic expressions fluently is often seen as a hallmark of language mastery.
25. Idioms are a powerful tool in the hands of skilled communicators, enriching their messages and resonating with their audiences on a deeper level.