Easy English Learning Course

American English Idioms:
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⭕In the TOEFL, you will find idiomatic expressions that make no grammatical sense. These interesting and colorful expressions are best learned by talking with native English speaking people. And, if possible, you should study a dictionary of American idioms.

⭕An idiom is a word or phrase used in a way that is peculiar to a certain region and whose meaning cannot be deduced from its grammatical structure or its component parts. For example, a Chinese exchange student in America is spinning a yarn (telling a fantastic story). His American host laughs, "Don't pull my leg," meaning, "don't try to fool me with your ridiculous story." The Chinese student replies, "I'm not touching you."

🔘Let us examine some of the most common American idioms.

▶Single and Compound Words

🔸Some idioms are single words that carry an unexpected meaning.

🔹For example, Marsha says, "I get bad vibes (vibrations) every time that showoff comes near me." "Vibes" are psychic emanations or feelings coming from someone or something. A "showoff" is an egotistical person who tries to impress others with his actions.

🔸Example # 2: Joe remarks, "Mary is a knockout. Too bad she is so standoffish." "Knockout" is slang for a beautiful woman. "Standoffish" means "aloof, distant, and reserved."