idioms

An idiom is a common phrase whose meaning isn't directly tied to the individual words but is understood through cultural use. For example, "break the ice" means to start a conversation and ease tension, not literally breaking ice. Idioms add imagery and color to language, making communication more vivid and expressive. They often reflect shared experiences or cultural values and can vary between regions. Understanding idioms enhances language comprehension and helps communicate more naturally with native speakers, though they may require some explanation for learners unfamiliar with their figurative meanings.