If you are new to American culture and everyday spoken English, you will hear people say things that do not mean what the words say. Those sayings are idioms. Until you hear them in context, or ask, they will not make sense.
What are idioms in English?
In relaxed talk, not formal speeches, people say things like “take it with a grain of salt” or “it’s raining cats and dogs.” Those lines rarely translate well into Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, Spanish, or other languages. You can look idioms up, but there are too many to memorize first. For a starter list, see idioms for new English learners.
Ask when you do not know
English is full of idioms, metaphor, clichés, and slang. The useful move is to ask. Try: “Can you explain what that means? I know it is probably a common phrase, and I am working on my English.” Most native speakers are glad to explain. Your question is not a failure. It is how you learn the culture inside the language.
Hear idioms from real speakers
If you stay only inside your own language group, even when you speak English there, you will not hear many idioms. Make American friends. Talk with native speakers. Ask questions. Kind people will teach you. People who mock you are not the ones to practice with.
If you want help saying the words clearly after you learn what they mean, start a free trial at pronunciationpro.com/trial/.
