New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

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Which of the following best defines idioms?

Literal phrases without deeper meanings
Expressions with meanings different from the literal interpretation
Complex vocabulary words
Short statements of advice

The correct answer is: Expressions with meanings different from the literal interpretation

Idioms are expressions that convey meanings that are different from the literal interpretations of the individual words within them. This characteristic is what distinguishes idioms from other forms of language. For example, saying someone "kicked the bucket" does not literally mean they engaged in a physical activity involving a bucket; rather, it is an idiomatic expression meaning that the person has passed away. Recognizing that idioms can often be culturally specific and may not translate directly into other languages further highlights their unique nature. This alternative meaning is key to understanding and interpreting idioms in both spoken and written language.