DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2706-6185/57/71-76
Nurana Isgandarova
Azerbaijan State University of Economics
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2331-1218
nurana-isgandarova@unec.edu.az
The Role and Importance of Idioms in Modern English
Abstract
This text examines the role of idioms in modern English and the challenges of translating them. Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot be understood from the meanings of their individual words, so they cannot be translated literally. Hence, language learners must study idioms as complete phrases. In the past, some scholars believed translation was impossible; however, the growing need for communication between different cultures has made translation an essential skill.
Idioms play an important role in English because they make speech more expressive, vivid, and natural. They are commonly used in everyday communication, especially in informal contexts, although their use in formal situations should be limited. Idioms may describe human characteristics, emotions, physical states, problematic situations, and everyday activities.
The text also highlights differences between American and British idioms and notes that many new idioms originate in American English and spread worldwide. Successful translation of idioms requires a deep understanding of both languages and cultural contexts. Overall, idioms are a fundamental element of language that enrich communication and reflect the creativity and thinking of its speakers.
Keywords: idioms, phraseology, translation, English language, communication