Here are some characteristics of idioms:
* Figurative meaning: The meaning is not literal. For example, "kick the bucket" doesn't actually mean to physically kick a bucket, it means to die.
* Fixed expression: The words in the idiom are usually fixed and cannot be changed.
* Non-literal: The meaning of the idiom cannot be deduced from the individual words.
* Cultural-specific: Idioms are often specific to a particular language or culture.
Examples of Idioms:
* "Spill the beans" - to reveal a secret
* "Break a leg" - to wish someone good luck
* "Cost an arm and a leg" - to be very expensive
* "Bite the bullet" - to face a difficult situation bravely
* "Piece of cake" - something that is very easy to do
* "Raining cats and dogs" - raining heavily
Things that are NOT idioms:
* Proverbs: While proverbs are also sayings, they tend to be more like advice or wisdom (e.g., "Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise").
* Clichés: These are overused phrases that have lost their original meaning and become predictable (e.g., "He was as white as a sheet").
* Metaphors: While metaphors use figurative language, they are more directly linked to the literal meaning (e.g., "He's a lion in the boardroom").
Let me know if you'd like more examples or have any other questions!