Complete list of idioms and phrases a to z
Answers
Idioms do not mean exactly what the words say. They have a hidden meaning.
Example of idioms with there literal meaning and idiomatic meaning
One of the more common idioms in the English language is, "break a leg".
Before Peter went on the stage for the show, John told him to break a leg.
Literal meaning: I am telling you to break a bone in your leg and then you will probably have to the hospital afterwards to get a cast put on your leg.
Idiomatic meaning: Do your best and good luck. A lot of actors and actresses tell each other to "break a leg" as they are about to goon stage to perform it is deemed to be good luck.
Explanation:
expression, word, or phrase that only has a meaning to the native speaker. The meaning of an idiom is total different from the literal meaning of the idiom's individual elements.
Idioms do not mean exactly what the words say. They have a hidden meaning.
Example of idioms with there literal meaning and idiomatic meaning
One of the more common idioms in the English language is, "break a leg".
Before Peter went on the stage for the show, John told him to break a leg.
Literal meaning: I am telling you to break a bone in your leg and then you will probably have to the hospital afterwards to get a cast put on your leg.
Idiomatic meaning: Do your best and good luck. A lot of actors and actresses tell each other to "break a leg" as they are about to goon stage to perform it is deemed to be good luck.