idiomatic expression
[/ɪˌdioʊˈmætɪk ɪkˈsprɛʃən/]
nounpl: idiomatic expressions
expressão idiomática
1. A phrase or sentence whose meaning cannot be deduced from the literal definitions and order of the words it contains; a fixed or semi-fixed phrase that has a conventional meaning often different from the literal meaning of its individual words
The phrase 'raining cats and dogs' is an idiomatic expression meaning heavy rainfall.
A expressão 'chovendo a cântaros' é uma expressão idiomática que significa chuva muito intensa.
2. Language usage that is natural to native speakers and reflects the unique characteristics, grammar, and vocabulary patterns of a particular language
Learning idiomatic expressions helps you speak English more naturally.
Aprender expressões idiomáticas ajuda você a falar português de forma mais natural.
Idiomatic expressions are fundamental to both American English and Brazilian Portuguese cultures. In the USA, idioms reflect cultural values and historical events (e.g., 'ballpark figure' from baseball). In Brazil, idioms often incorporate regional references and reflect the warmth and creativity of Portuguese language use. Understanding idioms is considered essential for achieving fluency and cultural integration in both English-speaking and Portuguese-speaking communities. Language learners often struggle with idioms since they cannot be translated word-for-word.
NYC Slang
phrase / saying (NYC speakers typically use standard English terms without regional variation for this academic concept)
Related Idioms & Phrases
piece of cake (fácil demais)
break a leg (boa sorte)
under the weather (indisposto)
hit the books (estudar muito)
cost an arm and a leg (ser muito caro)
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