What is an idiom?
An expression whose figurative meaning is different from the literal meaning of its constituent words.
Unlocking the Meaning Behind Idioms
Idioms are expressions that have meanings that go beyond the words themselves. Understanding idioms is an important part of mastering any language, but especially the idiosyncrasies of English. For example, when someone says, 'break a leg,' they are not hoping you will actually break your leg; instead, this idiom is a way to wish someone good luck.
Idioms are an essential aspect of creative writing, enhancing the imagery and depth of a text by using figurative language. Since idioms are an inherent part of any language, it's essential to understand them to effectively communicate with people from different backgrounds or regions. Furthermore, knowing the origins of idioms can increase one's knowledge of etymology and history. The phrase 'raining cats and dogs,' for instance, has a disputed etymology but is thought to come from Norse mythology.
Idioms have been popularly used in literature to give more depth and character to stories and characters. Here are two examples of their use:
'I was trying to feel some kind of a good-by. I mean I've left schools and places I didn't even know I was leaving them. I hate that. I don't care if it's a sad good-by or a bad good-by, but when I leave a place I like to know I'm leaving it. If you don't, you feel even worse.' – In this classic coming-of-age novel, the idiomatic phrase 'a sad goodbye or a bad goodbye' is used to describe the protagonist's feelings of separation and abandonment.
“t’s when you know you’re licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.” This statement by Atticus Finch uses the idiom 'licked before you begin' meaning to have failed before even starting to emphasize his determination and commitment to justice in the face of adversity.