Idioms in Informal Converstions

I agree with Muhammad Saad. There are idioms that are appropriate in both formal and informal settings. However, many idioms tend to be more informal, partly because in writing, especially factual writing, it's better to be specific and avoid idioms. In creative writing, you want to be original in your descriptions, not relying too heavily on idioms.

That said, some idioms are so commonly understood that they don't come across as clichés, and you can see them used all the time.

In Filipino, based on Tagalog, idioms are often used in formal speech. But when they're used in casual conversations, they can sound odd or even annoying.

In our language, we use idioms in formal contexts but not slang. Is it the same in English?

It depends on what you mean by idioms. Many things can be idioms. Generally, in informal conversations, you'll find a few very common idioms, along with some slang.

For example:

• "Is everything clear?"
• "As clear as mud. Looks like you've put the cart before the horse."

These idioms are used in casual speech to add flavor or humor. However, as Topman mentioned, it varies from person to person. A good rule of thumb is to avoid using idioms you're not familiar with, especially if they're rare. Don't use them just for the sake of it—you might end up confusing your audience more than helping.

Is "once in a blue moon" considered formal or informal? What about "nothing to write home about" or "close but no cigar"?

For clarity's sake, idioms are often avoided in formal writing and speech, but they can be quite common in casual conversations. There are also regional variations that can make certain idioms more common in some places than others.

An idiom is essentially a phrase that doesn't make literal sense. For example, saying "crime is up" doesn't mean crime is physically rising; it's a figure of speech. Idioms can be tricky because they often don't translate directly and can differ between cultures.

That’s a good point. I remember reviewing a document where a non-native speaker used an idiom that was inappropriate in a professional context. It’s important to know not just the meaning of an idiom but also the context in which it’s appropriate.

For instance:

• Correct: "Sarah is good at negotiating."
• Incorrect: "Sarah can 'haggle them down.'"

The latter might be seen as unprofessional or even offensive, depending on the audience.

I’m really interested in learning idioms, but there are so many! I’ve been trying to memorize them from a list, and it’s overwhelming. Do you have any tips on how to learn them effectively? Also, are phrasal verbs considered idioms?