Here's a breakdown:
* Figurative Meaning: Idioms are metaphorical, meaning they use words to create an image or idea that is not directly related to the literal meaning of the words.
* Different from Literal Meaning: The meaning of an idiom cannot be understood by simply analyzing the individual words in the phrase.
* Common Usage: Idioms are widely used in everyday language and often vary between cultures and languages.
Example:
* "Kick the bucket" literally means to kick a bucket, but idiomatically it means to die.
Here are some characteristics of idioms:
* They are often fixed expressions, meaning the words are rarely changed.
* They are often used in informal contexts, but some can be used in formal writing.
* They can be confusing for non-native speakers, as the meaning is not always obvious.
Why do we use idioms?
* Conciseness: They can express complex ideas in a short and memorable way.
* Color and Vividness: They add color and vividness to language, making it more engaging.
* Cultural Understanding: They reflect the culture and history of a language.
Learning idioms:
The best way to learn idioms is through exposure to the language. Reading, listening, and interacting with native speakers will help you understand and use them correctly.