by Team TCP

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Idioms are a type of figurative language used to add color and interest to our speech and writing.  

 

Idioms are used very frequently in everyday conversation.  In fact, it’s estimated that there are over 25,000 idiomatic expressions in the English language. Idioms are so common that we often use them without even realizing it.  

 

Idioms have been around for centuries, and their origins are often shrouded in mystery. Some idioms are thought to have originated from proverbs, while others are thought to have come from slang or jargon.

 

If you don’t know the meanings or never really thought about it, remember to learn the definitions associated with common idioms. This will help you to understand the language inside a language.  Simply look up the meanings of idioms via dictionary or search engine to confirm what’s being said.

 

How Idioms ‘Work’ For Job Interviews

Idioms may be tricky during employment interviews. While they can add a touch of personality and make a candidate sound more natural and conversational, they can also be a major stumbling block.  Here's how idioms tend to pop up in interviews, and what both interviewers and interviewees should keep in mind:

 

For Interviewees/Job Seekers:

• Be Aware of Common Business Idioms: Many industries have their own set of idioms. Familiarize yourself with common phrases related to your field. For example, "thinking outside the box," "hitting the ground running," "low-hanging fruit," and "being on the same page" are frequently used in business settings. Understanding these will help you comprehend questions and appropriately respond.

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• Use Idioms Sparingly and Carefully: While a well-placed idiom can demonstrate your fluency and cultural understanding, overusing them can make you seem less professional or even pretentious. It's generally best to err on the side of caution. If you're unsure about an idiom's meaning or appropriateness, avoid using it.

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• Don't Force It: Trying to fit an idiom into your answer just for the sake of it can sound unnatural and forced. Focus on conveying your skills and deliver clearly and concisely for a greater experience.  

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• Clarify if Unsure: If the interviewer uses an idiom you don't understand, don't hesitate to politely ask for clarification. This shows that you're attentive and proactive. You could say something like, “Explain what you mean."

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• Focus on Clear Communication: Ultimately, the goal of an interview is to demonstrate your qualifications. Prioritize clear and concise communication over trying to impress with your knowledge of idioms.

 

For Interviewers/Hiring Managers:

• Be Mindful of Non-Native Speakers: Avoid using overly complex or obscure idioms. Stick to common, easily understood phrases, or rephrase your questions to avoid idioms altogether.

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• Don't Assume Understanding: Just because a candidate doesn't react to an idiom doesn't mean they understand it. They may be trying to hide their confusion or may have misinterpreted the meaning. Be clear and explicit in your communication. You could say something like, “In other words, I’m saying we want to reach our company goals."

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• Focus on Substance over Style: A candidate's ability to use idioms is not a reliable indicator of their skills or qualifications. Focus on assessing their actual abilities and experience.

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• Use Idioms Intentionally (If at All): If you do choose to use an idiom, do so intentionally to gauge a candidate's communication skills and cultural awareness. However, this should be a secondary consideration, not the primary focus of the interview.

 

In short, idioms can be a double-edged sword in employment interviews. While they can add a touch of personality, they can also create confusion and hinder effective communication. Both interviewers and interviewees should be mindful of their use and prioritize clear and concise communication above all else.

 

Overall, idioms can be a fascinating part of dialect.  Idioms provide interest to our communication so have fun while delivering your words!

 

Here are a few examples of idioms:

 

Under the weather

Meaning: Feeling sick.

 

Hit the books

Meaning: Going to study tonight.

 

Take a rain check

Meaning: Going to postpone.

 

Let the cat out of the bag

Meaning: Going to reveal a secret.

 

Cut to the chase

Meaning: I'm going to get to the point.  

 

Hit below the belt

Meaning: Performing an action that showcases unfair or unsportsmanlike conduct.

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Ball is in your court

Meaning: It is your responsibility to decide or act.

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Jump on the bandwagon

Meaning: Join others in supporting a popular activity or trend.

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The whole nine yards

Meaning: The complete extent.

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Bite the bullet

Meaning: To endure a painful or difficult situation with courage.

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‍Spill the beans

Meaning: To disclose a secret or reveal confidential information.

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Piece of cake

Meaning: Very easy to do.

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Break the ice

Meaning: Initiate a conversation or social interaction in a friendly manner.

 

Don’t cry over spilled milk

Meaning: Encouraging a person to avoid wasting time worrying about things that have already happened and cannot be changed.

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In hot water

Meaning: In trouble or facing difficulties.

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‍Bite off more than you can chew

Meaning: To take on more responsibilities or challenges than you can handle.

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Bring home the bacon

Meaning: To earn a living or provide financial support for a family.

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Two peas in a pod

Meaning: It involves two things that are very similar.

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The apple of my eye

Meaning: Someone who is cherished or adored by someone else.

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In a nutshell

Meaning: To sum up or express something in a concise manner.

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Spice things up

Meaning: To add excitement or variety to a situation.

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‍Cool as a cucumber

Meaning: Able to remain calm and composed, especially in stressful situations.

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Go bananas

Meaning: To become extremely excited, agitated, or crazy.

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The whole enchilada

Meaning: The entirety of something, down to the last detail.

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Bite the dust

Meaning: To fail or suffer a defeat.

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Weather the storm

Meaning: To endure a difficult situation.

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A breath of fresh air

Meaning: Something new and refreshing.

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Cost an arm and a leg

Meaning: Very expensive.

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‍Turn a blind eye

Meaning: To ignore or pretend not to see something.

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‍Keep your eyes peeled

Meaning: To be watchful and alert.

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‍Hit the hay

Meaning: To go to bed and head to sleep.

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Caught between a rock and a hard place

Meaning: Facing a difficult decision with no easy solution.

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Straight from the horse's mouth

Meaning: Information from a reliable source.

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Elephant in the room

Meaning: An obvious problem or issue people are avoiding.

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Raining cats and dogs

Meaning: A way of saying there is heavy rain and a heavy downpour.

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Kill two birds with one stone

Meaning: To accomplish two tasks with a single action.

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Don't count your chickens before they hatch

Meaning: Not assuming success or victory before it happens.

 

Share your interesting matters with idiom conversations with us.  We want your input.  Email us at TCPcontact1@gmail.com

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FYI: Source assistance via Google

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