Idioms (a quick review) (a quick review)

Definition of Idiom:  an expression that is illogical and means something other than its literal meaning

Example 1:  Before the conference began, the speaker broke the ice with a joke.

Meanings for “broke the ice”:  Literal meaning – the joke cracked some ice open  True meaning - to get through the difficulty of starting a conversation

Example 2:  After Lenny’s girlfriend broke up with him, he was down in the dumps.

Meanings for “down in the dumps”:  Literal meaning - at a place full of garbage  True meaning - feeling upset

Example 3:  We’re supposed to be at the movie by 7:00 PM on the dot.

Meanings for “on the dot”:  Literal meaning – to stand on a mark on the floor at the movie  True meaning – to be exactly on time

Try these:  My car is on its last leg; I need to replace it.  The difficult math lesson went over my head.  Because the movie was terrible, we felt it was a rip off.  It’s raining cats and dogs outside! Where’s my umbrella?

Remember:  Idioms can be fun, but not everyone may understand their true meaning.  Avoid overusing them in your writing.