4.6 Vocabulary – Idiomatic Expressions

 

Vocabulary – Idiomatic Expressions

Paper: PROFESSIONAL ENGLISH

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Introduction

Idiomatic expressions are an essential part of the English language. An idiom is a group of words whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of the individual words. Idioms are commonly used in spoken and written English to make communication more natural, expressive, and effective. In professional and academic contexts, understanding idioms helps learners improve comprehension, fluency, and confidence in communication.

According to English for Science & Technology (Cambridge University Press, 2021), vocabulary enrichment through idiomatic usage enables learners to communicate ideas more clearly and appropriately in real-life situations.

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What Are Idiomatic Expressions?

An idiomatic expression is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning rather than a direct or literal meaning.

Example:

• “Break the ice”

  • Literal meaning: To break frozen water

  • Actual meaning: To start a friendly conversation

Idioms often reflect culture, traditions, and everyday experiences, making them an important component of language learning.

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Importance of Idiomatic Expressions

Idiomatic expressions are important because they:

• Enhance vocabulary and language richness

• Improve listening and reading comprehension

• Make speech and writing more natural

• Help learners understand native speaker communication

• Are frequently used in professional conversations, interviews, and presentations

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Common Idiomatic Expressions with Meanings

Idiom	Meaning
Break the ice	Start a conversation
Hit the nail on the head	Say the exact right thing
Once in a blue moon	Very rarely
A piece of cake	Very easy
Burn the midnight oil	Work late at night
At the eleventh hour	At the last moment
On cloud nine	Extremely happy
Under the weather	Feeling unwell
Call it a day	Stop working
The ball is in your court	It is your responsibility

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Idiomatic Expressions Used in Professional Contexts

Idiom	Usage
Think outside the box	To think creatively
Get the ball rolling	Start a process
On the same page	Agreeing with others
Back to the drawing board	Start again
Ahead of schedule	Completed early
In the long run	Over a long period

Example Sentence:

• “Let’s get the ball rolling on the new project.”

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Difference Between Idioms and Literal Expressions

Idioms	Literal Expressions
Meaning is figurative	Meaning is direct
Cannot be understood word by word	Easy to understand
Culture-based	Context-based

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Tips for Learning Idiomatic Expressions

1. Learn idioms in context, not in isolation

2. Use idioms in sentences

3. Read newspapers, books, and professional articles

4. Listen to conversations, speeches, and interviews

5. Practice regularly in speaking and writing

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Conclusion

Idiomatic expressions play a vital role in mastering the English language. They enrich vocabulary, improve fluency, and enhance communicative competence. For students of Professional English, understanding and using idioms appropriately helps in academic success and professional communication. Regular exposure and practice can help learners use idioms confidently and effectively.

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References

1. Veena Selvam et al. (2021). English for Science & Technology. Cambridge University Press.

2. Raman, Meenakshi & Sharma, Sangeeta (2019). Professional English. Oxford University Press, New Delhi.

3. Chellammal, V. (2003). Learning to Communicate. Allied Publishing House, New Delhi.

4. Using English (2017). Orient Blackswan, Chennai.

5. OER – Authentic Open Educational Resources.