7.4 Finding the Message/Idiomatic Expressions
7.4 Finding the Message/Idiomatic Expressions
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Use common idiomatic expressions and proverbs to frame meaningful sentences
Idioms are groups of words that, when combined, have a meaning that's different from the individual words. Therefore, the meaning is figurative and should not be interpreted literally.
Below you will find examples of idioms with their meanings1:
Watch the video below and try to guess the idioms by looking at the images, then discuss their meanings with your partner.
Vid. 4.1: Guess the Idiom
Proverbs are a short, old saying that shares helpful advice, wisdom, or a general truth about life. They are like nuggets of wisdom, and people use them to pass on important lessons, common sense, and the values of their culture. These sayings have been passed down through many generations and are a part of a culture's oral and written traditions.
Below you will find example of proverbs with their meanings1:
Here are some ways in which idioms and proverbs can make our sentences more interesting and meaningful1:
They make our writing fun and creative:
Idioms such as "a piece of cake" (which means something is easy) or "raining cats and dogs" (which means it’s raining a lot) help us say things in a fun and exciting way.They teach us important life lessons:
Proverbs such as "honesty is the best policy" or "practice makes perfect" give us smart advice. They help us remember how to behave and make good choices.
They help us explain big ideas easily:
Sometimes, we want to share a big idea, and idioms or proverbs help us say it in a short and clear way. For example, "the early bird gets the worm" means people who are early or punctual often get the best opportunities.
Summary:
Summary:
An idiom is a phrase that has a meaning different from the literal meaning of the individual words. It is figurative and should not be taken literally.
Example: break a leg; not my cup of tea; bite the bullet; hold your horses
A proverb is a short, old saying that shares helpful advice, wisdom, or a general truth about life.
Example: Actions speak louder than words; You cannot judge a book by its cover; A stitch in time saves nine
Extension/Further Reading:
Visit the link to explore common idioms and proverbs. Read through a few examples and choose your ten favourite ones to share with the class!
References
1 Top 39 English Idioms To Teach Kids and Their Benefits . SJSU Writing Center (2013) link
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