Idiom
/ˈɪdiəm/
Definitions
A group of words established by usage as having a meaning not deducible from those of the individual words (e.g., rain cats and dogs, see the light ).
/ˈɪdiəm/
A phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the meanings of its separate words.
The phrase 'break a leg' is an idiom used to wish someone good luck.
💡 Simply: An idiom is like a secret code in language. It's a group of words that have a special meaning that you can't figure out just by knowing what each individual word means. For example, if someone says they're 'feeling blue,' they don't literally mean they're the color blue; it means they're sad!
👶 For kids: An idiom is a bunch of words that mean something different than what the words say. Like, 'It's raining cats and dogs' doesn't mean animals are falling from the sky – it means it's raining a lot!
More Examples
Learning idioms is essential for understanding colloquial English.
His speech was peppered with regional idioms, making it difficult for some to understand.
How It's Used
"The phrase 'kick the bucket' is an idiom meaning 'to die'."
"Linguists study the structure and usage of idioms in different languages."
"Shakespeare's plays are rich with idioms that add color and depth to the language."
Idioms & expressions
break a leg
Good luck!
"Break a leg tonight!"
kick the bucket
To die.
"Unfortunately, my grandfather kicked the bucket last week."
spill the beans
To reveal a secret.
"Don't spill the beans about the surprise party!"
a dime a dozen
Something that is common and easily found.
"Phone apps are a dime a dozen these days."
From French idiome, from Latin idioma, from Greek idiōma ('peculiarity, special phrase'), from idios ('one's own, private').
The term 'idiom' has been used in English since the 16th century, initially referring to a peculiarity of language or expression. Its meaning evolved to encompass established phrases with non-literal meanings.
Memory tip
Think of a secret 'idea' hidden in the words, like a special code.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: idios