idiom
/ˈɪd.i.əm/
NOUN
1. A distinctive manner of speaking or expression
A characteristic way of speaking or expressing ideas that is particular to an individual, language, or group of people.
1.1. Personal or group expression
Refers to a distinctive manner of using words and expressing thoughts that characterizes a particular person or group.
Synonyms
- mode of expression
- manner of speaking
- style of speech
- locution
- parlance
- expression
Examples
- The author's idiom is characterized by short sentences and vivid expressions.
- Her conversational idiom reflects the informal language of her community.
Related Words
- idiolect
- diction
- phraseology
- word choice
- speech pattern
- linguistic style
NOUN
2. A language or language variety
A particular language or form of language, especially a dialect or restricted variety associated with a specific community, historical period, or social context.
2.1. Regional and community language varieties
Refers to a distinctive form of language used by a particular geographical, cultural, or social group, often differing in vocabulary, pronunciation, or grammar.
Synonyms
- dialect
- vernacular
- patois
- lingo
- local speech
- language variety
Examples
- The researchers documented an idiom spoken by a small community in the region.
- The historical idiom contains expressions that are no longer common in modern speech.
Related Words
- sociolect
- idiolect
- regionalism
- provincialism
- argot
- slang
NOUN
3. An established expression with a figurative meaning
A fixed or conventional expression whose intended meaning cannot be understood simply by interpreting the literal meanings of its individual words.
3.1. Figurative and fixed expressions
Refers to a conventional phrase whose figurative meaning is understood through common usage rather than the literal meanings of its component words.
Synonyms
- idiomatic expression
- set phrase
- fixed expression
- phraseme
- figure of speech
- figurative expression
Antonyms
- literal expression
- literal statement
Examples
- Break a leg is an idiom used to wish someone good luck.
- The teacher explained the idiom raining cats and dogs to the students.
Related Words
NOUN
4. A distinctive artistic or creative style
A characteristic style or mode of expression in an art form, such as painting, architecture, literature, or music.
4.1. Artistic and creative style
Describes a recognizable approach to artistic creation, characterized by particular techniques, forms, conventions, or aesthetic qualities.
Synonyms
Examples
- The architect developed an idiom that combined modern materials with traditional forms.
- The composer's musical idiom blends classical structures with contemporary influences.
Related Words
NOUN
5. A characteristic programming construct or coding style
A programming expression, construct, or coding pattern that is characteristic of a particular programming language or commonly accepted programming practice.
5.1. Programming patterns and language-specific constructs
Refers to a conventional way of writing code or solving a programming problem that takes advantage of the features and conventions of a particular programming language.
Synonyms
- programming idiom
- coding idiom
- code pattern
- programming pattern
- language-specific construct
Examples
- List comprehensions are a common Python idiom for creating lists.
- Experienced developers learn the idioms of a programming language to write more natural and readable code.
Related Words
- syntax
- programming paradigm
- coding convention
- design pattern
- language construct
- algorithm