Idiom: a collection of words that collectively signify something distinct from the sum of their separate meanings.
Have you ever felt that something is lacking from your English, even how near it is to being flawless? Do you ever feel as though you have almost perfected the English language but that there are still some expressions that elude you? It's possible that the expressions you're hearing are American English idioms if they aren't included in your English grammar and vocabulary books. A phrase that is exclusive to one language and/or culture is known as an idiom if it cannot be understood or translated simply by looking up the terms used in the sentence in a dictionary. They come in large numbers. Add a few to your regular conversation here and there, and before you know it, you'll be fluent in English.
American English is rife with idioms, much like any other
language, especially when spoken. By generating imagery that carry meanings
beyond those of the individual words that make them up, idioms give color and
character to language. Idioms are rooted in culture and reveal information
about the past, present, and attitude of its users. This is due to the fact
that most idioms have evolved over time from customs, ideologies, and other
elements of other civilizations. When a culture evolves, so do the words used
to define it: certain idioms become obsolete while others emerge to take their
place.
Idioms in particular are susceptible to having their
supporting attitudes or behaviors vanish while the idiom itself remains in use.
Idioms can be overused to the point that they turn into clichés, or they can
turn into slang or jargon, which are terms used primarily by particular
professions or organizations.
Idioms can be flattering or derogatory. They are capable of
expressing a vast range of emotions, including joy and sadness, love and
hatred, bravery and cowardice, and all in between. Idioms can also be employed
to convey a feeling of scale, time, or location. The variety of idiomatic usage
is broad and intricate.
Idioms are difficult for non-native speakers to learn because of their intricacy. Idioms are rarely dull, but their intricacy may also make them fascinating to study and understand. Understanding idioms, in this case those used in the United States, offers a method to learn about the people who use the language as well as the language itself.
Listed below are some typical American English idioms along
with definitions and use examples:
All over the map - Meaning: a talk that veers off course and deviates from the main subject. "Today's meeting was disorganized, and I don't think we got the job done," the participant said.
Before you know it - Definition: essentially instantly. I'll be there soon, I promise.
Call it a day --- Declare the conclusion of work on a job. Okay, we've accomplished everything we can for the time being.
Cat nap means a short time sleep (a small nap) "After lunch, I'm going to have a cat nap. It's been a productive morning."
Disco nap Meaning Short snooze taken typically before leaving for a long evening engagement. It's 4pm Before we go out dancing tonight, I believe I'll take a disco nap.
Get the hang of it definition To be capable of completing a task and doing it well; to go from beginner to intermediate. It was difficult at first, but I'm starting to get the feel of it now.
Blow off steam convey one's rage or dissatisfaction. "I was overjoyed to be able to work out tonight. It was fantastic to let off steam and exercise after a long workday."
Break a leg --- Meaning: a phrase used frequently in the theater industry. Break a leg tonight with your show!