!Idioms? Stop pulling my leg

?While learning idioms isn’t just cool, it’s an essential part of learning a language. But what are idioms

Idioms are expressions that don’t have a literal meaning but instead are figurative. Figurative meaning means that the meaning of the phrase is often influenced by social and cultural factors which affect how English speakers understand it. Idioms are not only common to the English language because they exist in many languages as well. Language idioms can provide a deeper insight into the history and culture of a language.

:Here is an example of idioms in the Arabic language

ثَقِيْل دَم

Thaqeel al damm. which literally translates to: Thick blood. However, its intended meaning is completely different. This phrase is used to describe someone as boring or lacking any sense of humor

:Here are some examples of commonly used idioms in the English language

     !Its raining cats and dogs out there

A person unfamiliar with this phrase will have difficulty understanding its true meaning. It certainly doesn’t mean cats and dogs will fall from the sky, but it does mean that it is raining heavily

.I would watch out for that man because he is an old fox

In cultures around the world, foxes represent a variety of meanings. However, in the English context, it implies deception or being sneaky. The old fox in this example means he is sneaky and sly, and shouldn’t be trusted

.I am so tired. I think I’m just going to hit the sack

When you hit the sack, you don’t necessarily grab an old rice sack and start throwing punches. It just

.means you’re going to bed

                                      Tomorrow is Diana’s birthday. Let’s all pitch in and get her a gift

It is impossible to analyze the literal meaning of pitch in as this phrase cannot be taken literally. It means that everyone will contribute to achieve the end goal. It is assumed that each person will contribute some money to buy Diana a gift

.I have had enough of you talking so much. Just cut to the chase and tell me what’s really going on

You should not reach for a pair of scissors every time somebody says to cut to the chase. Cutting to the chase means to get right to the point. Having said that, I would warn you to be careful when using this phrase. It can be interpreted as rude and disrespectful when it is said

To learn more idioms, one needs to speak with a native speaker since they are the most familiar with not just the language, but also how it is used and how it is interpreted in society. You can benefit from EOE’s language teaching expertise by having native speaking language teachers guide and enhance your language learning journey

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