idiom

An idiom is a small group of words that expresses an idea or an action. These expressions and phrases are so popular that most people don’t think of them as unusual or confusing; however, people who learn the language in which the idiom is used find idioms to be quite confusing.

Many idioms are formed with a verb and a preposition:

• back up: support
• do over: repeat
• get along with: have a good relationship
• pick out: choose

• I’ll back you up if you need any help.
• Lashonda asked the teacher if she could do the test over.
• Do you get along with your coworkers?
• Pick out something to eat from this menu.

There are many different combinations of verbs, prepositions, nouns, adjectives, etc., that form idioms; however, the verb and preposition combination is, perhaps, the most common. It takes a long time to remember the hundreds of idioms in English, but it’s necessary and it’s a good use of your time. Click here for the idioms section of this website. I recommend that you bookmark this page and visit it frequently as you continue to study English. By the way, some idioms used in the United States are different from those used in countries where British English is spoken. Idiom usage may also vary within the United States according to geography.

Click here to learn more words.

This page was first published on January 9, 2014.