Definition of an idiom An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meaning of its individual words. Instead, the meaning is figurative and often culturally specific. Idioms are a common feature of natural language and are used in both spoken and written communication. Here are some key characteristics of idioms: Figurative Meaning: The most defining characteristic is that the overall meaning is not a direct sum of the meanings of its parts. For example, "kick the bucket" doesn't literally mean to kick a bucket; it means to die. Non-Literal Interpretation: You cannot interpret an idiom literally. If you try, it often sounds nonsensical or humorous. Cultural Specificity: Many idioms are tied to the culture or history of a language. An idiom in English might not make sense or have an equivalent in another language. Fixed Structure: Idioms often have a relatively fixed word order and grammatical structure. Changing the words or their order can alter or destroy the idiomatic meaning. Common Usage: They are frequently used by native speakers and are an integral part of everyday conversation. Learning Challenge: They can be challenging for language learners because their meanings cannot be deduced logically and must often be learned through exposure and memorization. Here are some examples of common English idioms: "Bite the bullet": To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation. "Break a leg": Good luck! (Used especially in theater). "Spill the beans": To reveal a secret. "Under the weather": Feeling unwell. "Hit the road": To leave. In essence, idioms add richness and colour to language, allowing for more concise and expressive communication, but they require familiarity with the specific nuances of the language.