1. In language:
* Refers to expressions or phrases that have a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. These phrases are often specific to a particular language or culture.
* Example: "Kick the bucket" means "to die", but it's not literally about kicking a bucket.
* Example: "It's raining cats and dogs" means it's raining heavily, but it's not literally raining animals.
* In general, it also refers to language that is natural and fluent. This means using expressions and grammar that are common and understood by native speakers.
2. In art and other creative fields:
* Refers to a style or approach that is characteristic of a particular artist, movement, or period. This can be seen in painting, writing, music, or other forms of art.
* Example: The Impressionist movement had an idiomatic style of painting that focused on light and color.
* Example: A particular author might have an idiomatic writing style characterized by using long sentences and complex vocabulary.
In summary:
"Idiomatic" generally refers to something that is characteristic of a particular language, culture, or artistic style. It often means that something is natural, fluent, and understood by those familiar with the context.