Idioms: inventive and invaluable communication tools

Language is constantly evolving and adapting to the way we live and the world around us. We’re always coming up with new words or phrases to suit the changing times and environment. Idioms are a classic example of this. When regular old words don’t quite do the trick, idioms are among the most helpful tools in the language toolbox.

What’s the definition of an idiom?

Whether you’re trying to make something a little clearer, crack a joke or be friendly, a little subtlety and creativity go a long way. That’s where idioms come in. A common idiom definition is, “a figurative expression with meaning that can’t be understood using the literal meaning of each word.”¹

Write with Confidence using Editor

Elevate your writing with real-time, intelligent assistance

Learn more

Idioms can be unique to a region, group of people, or period of time, but aren’t always. Especially clever or popular idioms can become common usage, standing the test of time and crossing demographic or regional lines. In fact, thousands of idioms have achieved this status.

Idiom examples

Idioms run the gamut, from pretty-easy-to-decipher or deduce to impossible to understand without context or having heard it before. Non-native speakers can have a particularly tough time because they, naturally, think in very literal terms. Let’s look at a few idiom examples and how they translate to their figurative or symbolic meaning.

• Piece of cake = simple, easy to do
• Up a creek without a paddle = being in trouble
• Lose your marbles = acting strange or crazy
• A whole new ball game = a major change
• Down to earth = realistic or relatable
• Oddball = an unusual thing or person
• Under the weather = not feeling 100%
• Break a leg = good luck
• Bent out of shape = to become mad
• Food for thought = something to think about

Idioms, metaphors and similes: what’s the difference?

Similes use a comparison of dissimilar things, with the help of “like” or “as”, to describe something. “That car stands out like a sore thumb,” is one example.

Metaphors effectively do the same thing without using the direct connection of “like” or “as.” They equate or use two traditionally unrelated ideas to help a reader or listener understand them in a different way. Technically, idioms can be considered a category of metaphors; idioms are metaphorical, but not all metaphors are idioms.

In the same way similes or metaphors work to quickly turn disconnected ideas into useful communication tools, idioms use short phrases to convey something different from their literal meaning.

What’s the difference between a euphemism and an idiom?

While euphemisms can be idiomatic, they have a more specific purpose. Euphemisms are typically used to soften tone for politeness or diplomacy. They are especially effective when speaking or writing about sensitive topics. For instance, saying “passing away” is a euphemism for “dying” and “under the weather” is a euphemism for “sick.”

Understanding idioms if crucial if you want to improve your writing. For more ways to improve your writing, check out Microsoft 365 for more writing tips.

---