1. When communicating with non-native speakers:
* Idioms are often culturally specific and can be confusing or even offensive to those who are unfamiliar with the language.
* If you're unsure of a person's language proficiency, it's best to stick with literal language.
2. When writing formal documents:
* Formal writing requires clear and concise language. Idioms can be ambiguous and make your writing difficult to understand.
* Formal documents like legal contracts, academic papers, and business reports should avoid figurative language.
3. When communicating with people from different cultures:
* Even within the same language, idioms can have different meanings in different cultures. This can lead to misunderstandings.
* It's best to avoid idioms when communicating with people from different cultural backgrounds.
4. When writing for a general audience:
* Idioms can be limiting to a certain audience.
* If you're writing for a broad audience, it's best to use clear and simple language that everyone can understand.
5. When the meaning is unclear or could be misinterpreted:
* Some idioms have multiple meanings or are open to interpretation.
* If you're unsure of the meaning of an idiom or think it could be misinterpreted, it's best to avoid it.
6. When you want to emphasize clarity and precision:
* Idioms often rely on figurative language, which can obscure the intended meaning.
* If you need to communicate something clearly and precisely, it's best to avoid idioms.
7. When you want to avoid being overly casual or informal:
* Idioms can make your writing sound more casual or informal.
* If you're trying to maintain a professional tone, it's best to avoid idioms.
General Tip: If you're unsure whether or not to use an idiom, it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid it.