There are many different types of expressions in English, but here are the main ones:
- Idioms (or idiomatic expressions)
- Slang
- Phrasal Verbs
- Proverbs
- Clichés
- Jargon
- Nation/Culture Specific Expressions
Let’s tackle them one by one! 🙂
1. Idioms
Idiom – an established group of words the meaning of which is not clear or understandable from the individual words.
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- ‘raining cats and dogs‘ – this idiom means that it’s raining heavily
Look up some more idiom examples here:
1000+ Most Popular English Idioms and Their Meanings
2. Slang
Slang – very informal words or phrases that are more common in spoken English. These words or phrase are typically restricted to a particular context or group of people.
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People make up new slang expressions every day. That’s why it can be hard to find slang in the dictionary.
- ‘hood’ – the word you can often here in rap songs means ‘your neighbourhood‘ (this is rap slang)
More information about the differences between IDIOMS and SLANG:
What’s the difference between slang and idioms?
3. Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verb – is a verb that has a figurative meaning just like idioms, and a literal meaning. A phrasal verb is always constructed with a verb and typically either an adverb or preposition.
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- Look after – Can you look after my cat while I’m on holidays? (phrasal verb: look after = to take care of someone)
More phrasal verbs:
Most Commonly Used Phrasal Verbs in English!
4. Proverbs
Proverb – is a short saying that is commonly known by public, and repeated as a piece of advice or suggestion. A proverb usually expresses the common truth.
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- Time is money (proverb)
The longer it takes to do something, the more costly it will be.
Read more:
The Most Common English Proverbs
5. Clichés
Cliché – is a word or a phrase that has become so popular that it is considered “overused”. It can also be used to describe something outdated or unoriginal.
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- ‘brave as a lion‘ – He is as brave as a lion. (this is an overused phrase, since everyone describes someone who’s brave as a lion)
More examples of clichés:
What does ‘cliché’ mean?
6. Jargon (or professional slang) are words and phrases that are only used by a particular profession or group, and are usually difficult for others to understand.
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9 to 5 (business jargon)
- He has a 9 to 5 job. (he has a standard working day from 9 am to 5 pm)
Read more:
15 Business English Idioms and Phrases In Use
If you have any comments, feel free to do it below 🙂
Thanks!
