IDIOM | EXPRESSION | COLLOQUIALS - What are the differences? | Tutor Sofia Fernandez's Column

The terms "idiom," "expression," and "colloquialism" refer to different aspects of language, and while they can sometimes overlap, they have distinct meanings.

Here’s an explanation of each:

Idiom

• Definition: An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from its literal meaning. Understanding idioms typically requires knowledge of the language and culture, as they often reflect cultural nuances.

• Example: "It's raining cats and dogs." It simply means it's raining heavily.

Expression

• Definition: An expression is a broader term that refers to any word or phrase that conveys a particular meaning, thought, or feeling. Expressions can include idioms, but it's often a culturally recognised way of saying something.

• Example: "Break a leg" is an expression used to wish someone good luck, especially in a performance context.

Colloquialism

• Definition: A colloquialism is a word or phrase that is characteristic of informal spoken language. Colloquialisms often reflect local or regional dialects and can include slang, idiomatic expressions, or phrases used in everyday conversation.

• Example: "Gonna" (going to) is a colloquialism commonly used in informal speech. Colloquialism can vary significantly between different regions or cultures.

Summary

• Idioms are specific phrases with figurative meanings.

• Expressions are broader and can be any phrase that conveys meaning, including idioms.

• Colloquialisms refer to informal language used in everyday conversation, which may include idioms and slang specific to a region or community.

Understanding these distinctions helps in recognising and using language effectively in different contexts.

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