English and Spanish have many idioms. In fact, it is difficult to speak or write without them. The most important thing is to know how to use them. What is an idiom and how to use it?
Have you ever come across phrases in English or Spanish that seem to make no literal sense? Don't worry! You're not crazy, you've just come across the famous idioms, those expressions that hide surprising meanings.
In this article, we will be your guide to deciphering the mysteries of idioms in both languages, with fun examples and practical tips to use them like a pro!
What is an idiom and how to use it?
Introduction:
Learning a language goes beyond memorizing words and grammatical rules. To sound like a native, you also need to master idioms, those fixed expressions that give flavor and color to the language. Imagine being able to use phrases like "kick the bucket" or "dar gato por liebre" in your conversations!
What is an idiom?
First of all, idiom translates as a phrase or idiomatic expression. All languages have them.
English, both British and American, and Spanish are very rich in idiomatic expressions. In fact, it is difficult to speak or write in English or Spanish without using them.
It is estimated that in English we can find at least 25,000 idiomatic expressions.
It can be defined as a series of words that, together, mean something different from the individual words that make it up.
That is, it has a metaphorical (not literal) meaning. That is why they are so complicated for those who are learning a new language, since their meaning cannot be deduced. It's like a secret code that only native speakers master!
The way words are mixed together is often strange, illogical, or even grammatically incorrect. That is why they must be understood as a whole without changing any part of it.
Idioms or modismos can be formal or informal. They may be more common in popular culture or more focused on certain professions (such as medicine, sports, business), and each region of the country may have its own idioms.
Some are easier to interpret than others.
Let's look at some examples.
To give someone the green light Significa literalmente: darle luz verde a alguien.
In this case we can guess the meaning even if we have never heard it before. If we associate green light with a traffic light where green light means go, we can interpret the idiom as giving someone permission to do something.
Now let's look at this other one:
To be at the top of the tree Significa literalmente: estar en la cima del árbol.
If we hear the phrase Paul is at the top of the tree now, We're not sure what it says about Paul. Maybe it means that he is in a dangerous position or that he is hiding. But if we listen to the phrase in context, the meaning is clear:
- Ten years ago Paul joined the company, and now he's the general manager! He's really at the top of the tree! (Hace diez años, Paul se incorporó a la empresa y ahora es el Director General. ¡Realmente está en la cima del árbol!)
Therefore, this idiom means: to be at the top of the profession, to be successful.
As we said at the beginning, all languages have or use idioms and Spanish also has them.
It must be taken into account that each place has its own idioms, so they are not the same everywhere where Spanish is spoken.
Let's look at some examples of idioms in Spanish.
El día que las vacas vuelen Literal translation: When cows fly.
This Spanish idiom or modismo en Español is very common to refer to something that is completely impossible to happen, or when we do not want to do something and we want to make it clear that it will never happen.
- Los políticos corruptos van a ir presos el día que las vacas vuelen. (Corrupt politicians will go to jail when cows fly)
- ¿Y vos, Paul, cuándo te vas a casar? - Cuando las vacas vuelen. (- And you, Paul, when will you get married? - When cows fly.)
This idiom has its English version but it is not the cows that fly but the pigs.
English version: When pigs fly.
How and when is an idiom used?
One of the biggest doubts that arise when learning them is knowing in which situation it is correct to use them.
They can be used in a formal or informal situation. But which is which? The choice of words depends on the person you are speaking to and the situation or place (context).
If the person is a friend or you are talking to someone you trust, we can use informal expressions or even slangs. (21 idioms claves para hacer sociales)
If, on the other hand, we are in a professional context or a speech is being given before an audience or a presentation, formal expressions must be used. ( 20 business idioms importantes para el trabajo)
To further clear up doubts, you can follow these rules to have more confidence when using any idiom or idiom:
Know its meaning: Research the exact meaning of each idiom before using it. You can find specialized dictionaries or online resources.
Learn idioms related to your job, profession or areas of interest.
Pay attention to the context: The meaning of an idiom can vary depending on the context in which it is used. See how native speakers use it in different situations.
Watch a movie or series, it can be very useful to learn new ones and see the context in which they are used.
Try to look for a similarity with your own language, in the proverbs or idioms that you already know.
How to learn a language easily?
Many idiomatic phrases come from everyday life, family or work life. There are many that have to do with food and cooking. Others include body parts, animals, and colors.
Therefore, to start learning them you can:
Group them by themes. Choose the topics of your interest or the more informal ones to make it more fun for you.
Create an image in your head that literally represents what the phrase says. This way you relate the phrase to the image to remember and understand it better.
If possible, you can associate it with one in your own language.
If any of the words that make up it are not familiar to you, cause you doubts, or if you want to know exactly the meaning because it is confusing, look it up in an online dictionary.
After knowing the meaning, put it into practice by creating several sentences. This way you will feel more confident when using it.
Why is it important to learn them?
Knowing languages will help you:
Improve your understanding of the language: By understanding languages, you will be able to better understand the meaning of texts and conversations in English or Spanish.
Sound like a native: Using idioms will give you a touch of authenticity to your way of speaking, making you sound like a real speaker of the language.
Enrich your expression: Idioms give you the possibility of expressing yourself more precisely and creatively.
The importance of idioms derives from their common use in everyday language.
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