Idioms: To Learn or Not To Learn?

Ever heard someone say, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch”?

It’s a quirky way of telling you not to celebrate too early because things might not go as planned.

In German: Man soll den Tag nicht vor dem Abend loben.

This is just one example of an idiom—those colourful phrases that make our language more interesting and lively.

But you might be wondering if you really need to learn them.

That’s what I want to explore here.

Why Bother?

• Chat with the locals: Idioms can help you understand native speakers better. It’s like adding a dash of flavour to your language skills.
• Feel like a local: Want to sound like you’ve been speaking English for years? Idioms are like local slang that makes you blend right in.
• Add flair: Imagine painting your words with colourful strokes. Idioms do that—they make your words funny, clever and interesting!

The Other Side

If, however, your main goal is to be understood by native and non-native speakers alike, you can skip idioms.

And focus on other important aspects of language like grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

The Choice is Yours

Using idioms is like adding sprinkles to your language cupcakes.

But remember, like a magician’s trick, you need to know when and how to use them.

So, should you dive into the idiom adventure?

You decide!

PS Here’s something to make you smile—and to remind you that if someone doesn’t understand an idiom you use, try and explain it in simpler terms.

(Watch at around 2.26 minutes)