Learning idioms and phrasal verbs is one aspect of a new language that needs to be considered. From new vocabulary to grammar rules, gaining fluency in a new language can take years. But, once you feel like you understand the basics of the language and are able to have conversations with native speakers, you will realize that there is more that comes with learning a new language than only vocabulary words and grammar. Languages are full of their own idioms and phrasal verbs, which are phrases used as figurative speech. If you translate the idioms and phrasal verbs directly into another language, they will likely not make sense at all. So what is the function of these phrases, and should you really spend time learning them?
Using Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
When using expressions, you add more color to your speech and writing. It also spices up your conversations. Some idioms are funny. Have you ever heard of “when pigs fly”? Well, that’s not likely going to happen, but it’s funny to imagine. And since pigs won’t be flying anytime soon, that’s exactly what the meaning of this idiom refers to: something that will never likely happen.
Also, learning idioms and phrasal verbs is helpful when you want to express something short and to the point. Instead of describing an event in a lengthy way, you can make it simple by using an idiom; native speakers will understand what you’re talking about. For instance, maybe you failed to do something and will now be more careful to do it again. You could easily say, “Once bitten, twice shy,” and people will understand what you mean.
Moreover, expressions set a certain tone and mood during a conversation. It reflects one’s point of view about a certain situation. For example, when talking about someone who died you could say, “He kicked the bucket.” This is more tactful than to say, “He’s worm food now” or “He’s on the wrong side of the grass.” These last two are less serious and give you the feeling that the one who uses this expression is not sad about the loss.
When it comes to writing texts, using expressions will make the text come alive. People will easily relate to your text when they recognize day-to-day sayings instead of having to read a plain text. It also adds an extra dimension to your texts so that you encourage your readers into figurative and abstract thinking on top of the literal descriptions that texts normally offer.
Why You Should Learn Idioms
English classes, unfortunately, do not focus enough on teaching idioms and phrasal verbs. Students are already happy when they are able to use the language in a literal sense. Having to spend more time on learning figurative language as well might be discouraging to some students, but it is this figurative speech that gives the language a deeper meaning and teaches you how the world is viewed through an English speaker’s eye.
Idioms and phrasal verbs are part of colloquial language. This language is used by native speakers in informal and conversational ways. For you to understand native speakers and truly immerse yourself in their culture, it is wise to spend some time learning idioms and phrasal verbs. This will make it easier for you to become involved in and contribute to conversations. There are countless idioms and phrasal verbs in the English language. It’s best not to try and master all of them at the same time. Focus first on the most commonly used ones. Then, you can have everyday conversations without being distracted when a common idiom is used. As you progress in learning the language, you will continue to come across more sayings. You can keep on adding them to your mental list.
By knowing idioms and phrasal verbs, you will feel more confident relating to other English speakers, and it will be easier for you to understand English TV shows, read English books and articles, and listen to English songs because most of them are full of figurative speech. Another advantage of learning idioms is that you will increase your vocabulary.
Did you know that most idioms actually have a rich history of how they came into being? It is not a must to know the origins of the idioms and phrasal verbs. Most native speakers don’t even know the origins, but it is fun to look up an idiom’s background story. This will also help you remember the idiom and its meaning once you come across it again.
Keep in mind that it is not about memorizing as many idioms as possible. Rather, spend time learning a few idioms and make sure you fully understand their meanings so that you can actually use them in your daily conversations. This way, you will benefit more from idioms and phrasal verbs than if you just tried to memorize a whole list of expressions. Native speakers also don’t know all English idioms and phrasal verbs.
Takeaway
The English language is full of idioms and phrasal verbs. However, English teachers do not always emphasize teaching these expressions. However, learning idioms and phrasal verbs can be beneficial to you if you want to spice up your conversations. It’s an easy way to express a certain point of view. Since most native speakers use these expressions in their daily conversations, you will feel more confident when speaking because you will know what they mean.
Remember, to be fluent in a language is not only about knowing vocabulary and grammar; it is also being able to have conversations with native speakers and understand the deeper meaning of the words and phrases used during conversations. It is being able to think and express yourself in a figurative way as well.
