Idioms – defined as a phrase or group of words the represent a figurative, non-literal meaning attached to the phrase -or- an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its separate words but must be understood as a whole.

American English idioms can be a nightmare for those learning to speak English. And, also cause a lot of confusion for those who just haven’t heard the expression before. But they are fun and add color to the conversation.

Some examples of common idioms include “Give Up” meaning – surrender – or – the ball is in your court, meaning it’s now your responsibility. Or, a more current idiom, ‘google it’ which means looking it up on the internet using the google search engine.

Idioms can come and go quickly – and sometimes hang around confusingly past their ‘sell by’ date.

Idioms and other expressions that are absolutely clear to us can be absolutely unclear to others.

Even in plain English – or even worse, in legal terms – people misunderstand and may even end up in court.

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