How do you define a word that cannot be figured out by looking up in the dictionary?

Created: Monday, 06 August 2012 06:21 | Published: Monday, 06 August 2012 06:21 | Written by Super User | Print | Email

What is an Idiom?:

Idioms are word combinations that cannot be taken literally. Idioms do not mean exactly what it says.

In one situation it can have a literal meaning and it can have an idiomatic meaning in another situation.

The meaning of an idiom cannot be understood from the literal interpretation of each word. 

Example:
It is raining cats and dogs.   If the literal meaning of this sentence is considered, it will mean cats and dogs are falling from the sky which does not make any sense.

But if we consider the idiomatic meaning then it will mean it is raining hard.

So the literal meaning of idiom cannot be taken. We have to consider the idiomatic meaning.



Importance of Idiom

Idioms are important because it helps you develop your vocabulary. Idiom is a part of our daily speech.

Also if you have a good knowledge of idioms you can participate in a group discussion or debate more frequently and without any hesitation.

It is important to learn about idioms because it will help you understand what others are saying.
 


Examples of Idioms

The below mentioned are the examples of few commonly used idioms in our daily speech:

Example: 

A piece of cake

This idiom means a task that can be done very easily.

Sentence: The exam was a piece of cake.


Example: 

All in the same boat


When everyone faces the same difficulties


Sentence: They were all in the same boat.



Example: 

Back to square one


When you have to start all over again.


Sentence: The girl could not clear her final examination. She is back to square one now.



Example:

Sell like hot cakes

Sell quickly in large quantities.

Sentence: The book is selling like hot cakes in India.


Example:

Cloud nine


When someone is very happy

Sentence: I have got a new job today! I am on cloud nine!



How Can I learn Idioms?

Idioms help to improve your vocabulary. So. You can take help from the dictionary to learn these.

You can write down idioms in a diary and also make sentences with them. You can take help from online spoken English tutors.

So you can join an online spoken English class to learn about idioms and thus improve your vocabulary and speaking skills.




Why and When Should We Use Idioms

Use of idioms makes a conversation interesting and impressive. So idioms can be used whenever the requirement is.

If you want to make your language more interesting and attractive you can use an idiom.

Want to know more about "Idioms?" Click here to schedule live online session with e Tutor!




About eAge Tutoring:

eAgeTutor.com is the premier online tutoring provider.  eAge’s world class faculty and ace communication experts from around the globe help you to improve in an all round manner. Assignments and tasks based on a well researched content developed by subject matter and industry experts can certainly fetch the most desired results for improving spoken English skills. Overcoming limitations is just a click of mouse away in this age of effective and advance communication technology. For further information on online English speaking course or to experience the wonders of virtual classroom fix a demonstration session with our tutor. Please visit www.eagetutor.com.

Contact us today to know more about our spoken English program and experience the exciting world of e-learning.

Reference Links:

 

Category: Spoken English / Beginner's English