idiomatic expressions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "idiomatic expressions" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing phrases that have a figurative meaning different from their literal meaning. An example is: "She kicked the bucket," which means she died. Alternative expressions include "idioms" and "figurative language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

On the first day we began grammar class with idiomatic expressions, a friendly ice breaker.

The New York Times - Travel

It is celebrated as the source of hundreds of idiomatic expressions — four-character phrases rooted in Chinese folktales and history.

The New Yorker

But that approach fails to capture the subtleties that bring human language to life: irony, sarcasm, slang and other idiomatic expressions.

The New York Times - Tech

"And I got a choke-up even for 'The Prince of Egypt.' " His idiomatic expressions are a few degrees shy of a full compass.

The New York Times - Style

"You want to learn the idiomatic expressions — when you say someone has kicked the bucket, you don't want that translated word for word".

The New York Times - Tech

The rich vocabulary and idiomatic expressions and the wealth of folklore and folktales of the Irish-speaking districts (gaeltachts) gradually were acknowledged.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

(Idiomatic expression) 1. Phrase used to express a sense of general approval.

The New Yorker

His favorite idiomatic expression, in entertainingly warped Chicagoese, appears to be "by the way".

The New York Times

In what many are calling a cast-iron piano tune unlike any on record, idiomatic expression has been devastated nationwide.

The New York Times

Worse, he quotes his subjects at length, and every quotation sounds the same, shorn of idiomatic expression.

The New York Times - Books

Earlier that season, during spring training, Yankees owner George Steinbrenner had blasted Irabu's performance, using a distinct idiomatic expression: Steinbrenner had made his comments to a group of reporters, not to Irabu himself.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "idiomatic expressions" when you need to be precise in a linguistic or educational context. While "idioms" is often used in casual conversation, the full phrase is preferred in academic or descriptive writing to denote the category of language.

Common error

When dealing with "idiomatic expressions", do not attempt word-for-word translations into other languages. The defining feature of an idiomatic expression is that its meaning cannot be derived from the sum of its individual parts. Always look for a cultural equivalent instead.

Linguistic Context

As a noun phrase, "idiomatic expressions" serves to categorize a specific class of linguistic units where the figurative meaning differs from the literal definitions of the constituent words. In the data provided by Ludwig, the phrase functions as a technical label used by researchers and educators to describe the complexities of language acquisition and translation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "idiomatic expressions" is a robust and widely used term in the English language, serving as the standard designation for phrases that convey meaning beyond their literal words. According to data analyzed by Ludwig, this term is essential for educators, linguists, and writers who need to describe the 'subtleties that bring human language to life'. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and most frequent in news and scientific literature. Whether you are discussing the 'choke-up' for a movie or 'kicking the bucket', using the term "idiomatic expressions" allows for a professional and accurate categorization of these essential linguistic tools.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

idioms

Shortens the phrase while maintaining the exact same meaning in most contexts.

figures of speech

Broader term that includes metaphors and similes alongside idioms.

colloquialisms

Focuses specifically on informal or regional expressions rather than just figurative ones.

fixed expressions

Emphasizes the immutable word order of the phrase rather than its figurative nature.

set phrases

Similar to fixed expressions, highlighting the standardized usage of the grouping.

metaphorical language

Refers to the use of words in a non-literal sense broadly.

vernacular phrases

Pertains to language or dialect spoken by ordinary people in a region.

phrasal verbs

Specifically refers to idiomatic combinations of a verb and a preposition.

linguistic nuances

Refers more to the subtle differences in meaning rather than the expressions themselves.

parlance

A way of speaking typical of a particular group or profession.

FAQs

What is the difference between idioms and "idiomatic expressions"?

There is virtually no difference in meaning; ""idioms"" is the shorter, more common term, while "idiomatic expressions" is more formal and descriptive.

Can I use "idiomatic expressions" in formal essays?

Yes, it is perfectly appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing language, culture, or "linguistic patterns".

What is a synonym for "idiomatic expressions"?

You can use terms like "figures of speech", "colloquialisms", or "fixed expressions" depending on the specific focus of your sentence.

How do "idiomatic expressions" impact non-native speakers?

They often pose a challenge because they require cultural knowledge rather than just a grasp of "literal grammar".