Idioms
> Idiomatic expressions are usually forcible, terse, and vivid. The same meaning can be expressed in some other way but not with equal force and brevity. Thus, idioms fulfill a special function in effective, vivid communication. Idioms, however, are not easy to learn. The idiomatic part of a language is usually the most difficult part for a foreign language students. This is probably because no reason can be given as to how or why particular idiomatic phrase has assumed its present form. people must use them as they are. As a general rule, an idiomatic phrase cannot be altered, i.e. no synonymous word can substitute for any word in the expression nor the arrangement of words may be changed. To do so would commonly destroy the idiom and may render it meaningless.
Any student interested to learn idioms should take note of the following:
1. Note the precise words that make up any idiom. Note the exact arrangement of the words too.
2. Read much and note idioms used.
3. Read good modern authors.
4. Commit idiomatic expression to memory.
The following are examples of idioms and their meanings:
1. crocodile tears - pretended sorrow.
2. close-fisted man - a miser
3. cold-reception - A reception wanting in cordiality
4. board daylight - open, full daylight
5. blackmail - money extorted by threat or intimidation
6. Argus-eyed - jealously watchful
7. what not - an abbreviating clause having a meaning similar to et cetera.
8.blue-blood - noble blood.
9. chicken-hearted (fellow) - a timid, cowardly fellow (used contemptuously).
10. confirmed bachelor - a man who has made up his mind not to marry.
11. absent-minded - to be inattentive of what is going on.
12. fair weather friend - one who desserts you in time of difficulties.
13. henpecked husband - a husband snubbed by the wife.
14. greengrocer - a dealer in vegetables.
15. greenhorn - an inexperienced person
Exercise 1
Note the underlined idiomatic expression in each sentence. Under each are three meaning. Select the correct meaning of the idiom. underline you answer.
1. She shed crocodile tears when the cruel step-mother died.
a. sincere grief
b. pretended sorrow
c. short-live sorrow
2. The irresponsible members made the project die a natural death.
a. have an untimely end
b. secceed
c. fail
3. Things will be clearer to everybody if you call a spade a spade.
a. call other people names
b. shout at each other
c. speak in plain terms
4. The patient was told a white lie to prevent him from worrying.
a. an interesting story
b. a harmless untruth
c. an honest statement
5. On the top floor, one gets a bird's eye view of the city.
a. a blurred view
b. a view of many flying birds
c. a view over the entire area
Exercise 2
Complete each sentence with an idiom. Select your answers from the given list of idioms.
burn the midnight oil a wild goose chase
passed away a time honored custom
fish out of water a wet blanket
cold shoulder red tape
cock and bull story a red letter day
a greenhorn an oily tongue
a penny-a-liner a laughing stock
1. Poor Carlos! he has to _________________________ to maintain his scholarship
2. That the young gives due respect to the elderly is __________________.
3. i didn't study journalism just to end up as _________________________.
4. Elsa will not forget the day Ronnie was introduced to her. This is _______________ for Elsa.
5. Don't be easily carried away by what he says. he has __________________ after all.
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