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MM.1 Identify the meaning of idioms from the context

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What are idioms?

Idioms are expressions that mean something different from the literal meaning of the individual words. They are commonly used in everyday speech and writing.

Examples:
  • “It’s raining cats and dogs.” → It is raining very hard.
  • “Break the ice.” → To start a friendly conversation.
  • “Hit the hay.” → To go to bed.
Note

Idioms do not always make sense if you take the words literally. Learn their figurative meaning.

Why are idioms important?

Idioms make language more colorful and interesting. Understanding idioms also helps you read and listen more effectively because they are often used in stories, conversations, and media.

Examples:
  • “Piece of cake” → Something that is very easy.
  • “Under the weather” → Not feeling well.
Note

Idioms are part of culture. When you learn them, you understand not only the words but also how people express themselves in daily life.

How can you figure out the meaning of idioms?

Sometimes you can use context clues, or the words around the idiom, to understand what it means. You can also think about the situation where the idiom is used.

Examples:
  • “Don’t spill the beans.” (Context: talking about a surprise party) → Do not tell the secret.
  • “He let the cat out of the bag.” (Context: after someone told the surprise) → He revealed the secret.
Note

Pay attention to the situation. The same words can mean something different if they are part of an idiom.

Common idioms you should know

Here are some idioms that are often used in everyday English. Learning them will help you understand conversations and books more clearly.

Idiom List:
  • “Cold feet” → Feeling nervous before doing something.
  • “On cloud nine” → Extremely happy.
  • “Hit the books” → Start studying.
  • “Once in a blue moon” → Something that happens rarely.
  • “The ball is in your court” → It is your turn to decide or act.
Note

Some idioms may sound strange at first. Practice them until you feel comfortable using them naturally.

Using idioms in sentences

Practice makes perfect! Try writing and reading sentences with idioms so you can remember how they are used in real life.

Examples:
  • “I was on cloud nine when I won the contest.”
  • “We need to hit the books before the test tomorrow.”
  • “He got cold feet and decided not to give his speech.”
Note

Always check that the idiom fits the situation. Not all idioms work in every context.