An idiom (Latin: idioma, "special property", f. Greek: ἰδίωμα – idiōma, "special feature, special phrasing", f. Greek: ἴδιος – idios, "one’s own") is an expression consisting of a combination of words that has a figurative meaning. The figurative meaning is comprehended in regard to a common use of the expression that is separate from the literal meaning or definition of the words of which it is made.[1] Idioms are numerous and they occur frequently in all languages. There are estimated to be at least 25,000 idiomatic expressions in the English language.
Examples:
IDIOM | MEANING | TURN OVER A NEW LEAF | Changing your better for the better |
After Ajit was released from prison, he decided to turn over a new leaf and become an honest man. IDIOM | MEANING | PULL UP ONE’S SOCKS | To make an effort to improve |
Rajesh got only forty percentage marks in the English mid-term exams. He needs to pull up his socksif he has to score well in his final exams. IDIOM | MEANING | HIT BELOW THE BELT | To act in an unfair matter |
The candidate of the opposition party spread false rumours about the Minister. People felt that it was an act of hitting below the belt.
IDIOM | MEANING | GIFT OF THE GAB | The ability to speak well |
Pooja was able to keep the audiences amused with her stories. She surely has the gift of the gab. IDIOM | MEANING | WILD GOOSE CHASE | Futile search |
Searching for hidden gold in the village field is nothing but a wild goose chase. IDIOM | MEANING | HAVE SECOND THOUGHTS | Reconsideration of a decision |
When Rajiv could not answer any question in the Economics assignment, he started having second thoughts about his decision to take Economics as his main subject. IDIOM | MEANING | TAKE TO TASK | To reprimand someone |
Payal was taken to task by her mother when she found out that she had failed her Mathematics exam. IDIOM | MEANING | FACE THE MUSIC | To face the consequences of one’s action |
I lost my