If you’re new to American culture and everyday spoken English, you’re likely to hear people say things that make no sense. By and large, these common sayings are idioms, and unless you are a native speaker, you’re not going to understand what they mean until you figure them out contextually or Google them.
Within relaxed English that is not used in formal settings, presentations, and speeches, phrases like “take it with a grain of salt,” or “it’s raining cats and dogs” are regularly used, but rarely translate well into Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, Spanish, or any other language.
While you can look up idioms online, because there are so many of them, it’s best to accept that it’s okay not to know exactly what everything means. Because English is very complex when it comes to idioms, metaphoric language, clichés, and slang, the most important thing to take away is this: Most native speakers of English will gladly explain what an idiom means if you interject with, “Can you explain what that means? I know it’s probably a common phrase, and I am working on perfecting my English.” Most native speakers find your inquisitiveness engaging, and most people in general love it when people take an interest in idioms, because they are a part of their native culture.
If you never step outside your own cultural group, even if within these groups you commit to speaking English most of the time, you will not likely hear many idioms. That’s why it’s so important to make American friends, socialize with native English speakers, and ask questions. Most Americans, Canadians, and Brits are happy to teach, will enjoy doing so, and those who are not kind with regard to this matter will reveal themselves as people you don’t need to subject yourself to further anyway. Learning to speak English fluently does not mean you have to accept anyone into your life who is insensitive or disrespectful.
For a list of some common idioms, visit the Accent Reduction Center blog about idioms here. PronunciationPro.com will also be releasing periodical lists of idioms with explanations too!
