Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

idiomatic expression

noun
/ˌɪdiəˈmætɪk ɪkˈsprɛʃən/
Definition
A combination of words that has a meaning that is different from the meanings of the individual words.
Examples
  • “Kick the bucket” means to die.
  • “Bite the bullet” means to endure a painful or difficult situation.
Meaning
Idiomatic expressions are phrases or sayings that convey a figurative meaning understood by native speakers, rather than a literal interpretation.
Synonyms
  • Phrase
  • Saying
  • Colloquialism