Idioms & Phrases
Idioms are groups of words that have a special, fixed meaning. This meaning is very different from the dictionary meaning of each individual word. For example, if someone says 'it is raining cats and dogs,' they do not mean animals are falling from the sky. They simply mean it is raining very heavily. These phrases act like a single unit in a sentence. They add color and style to the English language. You cannot understand an idiom by translating it word-for-word into your mother tongue.
Concepts (2)
Literal meaning is the exact, dictionary definition of words. Figurative meaning is the hidden or special meaning. For example, 'kick the bucket' literally means hitting a pail with your foot. Figuratively, it means to die.
Literal meaning is the exact, dictionary definition of words. Figurative meaning is the hidden or special meaning. For example, 'kick the bucket' literally means hitting a pail with your foot. Figuratively, it means to die. In exams, look for the figurative sense. Most wrong options will give you the literal meaning to trick you. If you see an option that talks about actual buckets or feet, it is usually a trap. Focus on the abstract idea the phrase represents.
Context means the situation or sentence where the idiom is used. Often, the words before or after the idiom tell you if it is positive or negative. For instance, in 'Pooja tried to explain...
Context means the situation or sentence where the idiom is used. Often, the words before or after the idiom tell you if it is positive or negative. For instance, in 'Pooja tried to explain... but tied herself in knots,' the word 'but' shows something went wrong. This helps you choose 'confused' as the answer. When solving PYQs, look for 'clue words' like 'but', 'although', or 'finally'. They guide you to the correct choice.
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Start Lesson: Figurative vs. Literal Meaning