Here's how it works:
* Idioms are figurative expressions: They have a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. For example, "kick the bucket" means "to die", not to literally kick a bucket.
* Comparisons help understand the figurative meaning: By comparing an idiom to something concrete, we can grasp its metaphorical meaning.
Let's look at some examples:
* "He's as stubborn as a mule." This idiom is compared to a mule, known for its stubborn nature. The comparison helps us understand that the person is very stubborn.
* "She's like a fish out of water." This idiom compares someone feeling uncomfortable and out of place to a fish struggling on land. This clarifies the feeling of being awkward and unfamiliar.
* "He's got a heart of gold." This idiom compares someone's kindness and generosity to the preciousness of gold. This illustrates the person's good character.
In essence, comparing an idiom to something familiar allows us to bridge the gap between its figurative meaning and our understanding of the world. It helps us make sense of the idiom and use it more effectively in our communication.