What is ‘Idiom’?An ‘idiom’ is an expression used that has a hidden meaning. The words used in each idiom
cannot be translated literally or they won’t make sense.
For example; on the cover of this book there was an idiom depicted. ‘Think outside the
box’. Now, if you take this expression by its literal meaning, it would be mean that someone
that is inside a box should get out of the box and think outside of it. No one I know sits inside
of boxes and thinks; so the meaning of the idiom ‘think outside the box’ means you should
think in an original or creative way.
Why are idioms difficult to understand?
Idioms are difficult to understand because you cannot understand the meaning just by
understanding the words. You need to have a deeper or more advanced understanding of the
language (or culture) to understand many idioms.
Idioms are also difficult because there are so many and how often they are used varies.
Some people do not use very many idioms whereas others seem to use idioms in every
sentence. Since there are so many idioms an English language learner could become
confused easily.
Also, idioms are different in every country and language. Idiomatic expressions do not carry
over from one language or country to the next.
A good example is this article that depicts.
How Idioms Improve Your English Level/Understanding
If you are learning English for a textbook, English class or on your own you are likely using
generic materials that have very generic English explained. Learning idioms will help you
understand and interact more naturally with native English speakers both online and off.
Idioms and idiomatic expressions are fun to learn. They make speaking more fun and colorful.
Though you may be able to speak English well, knowing and understanding how to use
idioms will increase your English fluency level. You will be able to use more complex
expressions that are not taught in textbooks and you will be able to speak English naturally.
Once you are able to master idioms or at least increase your knowledge of commonly used
idioms you will be able to sound more like a native English speaker.
