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An idiom is a phrase that cannot be understood by context unless you know the definition, like "kick the bucket" being an idiom for dying.

A cliche is a stale or trite phrase that has been overused to the point of being boring, like "think outside of the box."

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βˆ™ 8y ago
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βˆ™ 5d ago

An idiom is a group of words whose meaning is different from the individual words, often unique to a particular language or culture. A cliche is an overused phrase or expression that has lost originality or impact.

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Q: What is the difference between an idiom and a cliche?
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Is an idiom a cliche?

No, an idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning, while a cliche is an overused phrase or idea. Idioms are more unique and colorful in their language use, whereas cliches can be seen as trite or lacking in originality.


What is the difference between an idiom and an idom?

"Idom" is not a word in English, so the difference is between a word and a non-word. An idiom is a phrase that cannot be understood unless you know the idiomatic meaning already. "On edge" is an example of an idiom because you are not literally standing on an edge - you are anxious or frustrated.


What is the difference between analogy and idiom?

An analogy is a comparison between two things to highlight their similarities, while an idiom is a phrase with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation of its individual words. Analogies are used to explain complex ideas by drawing parallels, whereas idioms are expressions unique to a language or culture.


Is the sentence you are in debt to your ears a correct cliche?

No, "you are in debt to your ears" is not a recognized cliche or idiom in English. The phrase likely conveys the idea of being overwhelmed or deeply involved in something, but it does not have widespread usage or recognition.


What is the difference between an idiom and a descriptive phrase?

An idiom is a phrase whose meaning is not easily deduced from the individual words used, often carrying a symbolic or cultural connotation. A descriptive phrase, on the other hand, is simply a phrase that describes something without the use of figurative language.

Related questions

Is 'stuck in a road' an idiom?

Stuck in a rut is a phrase, but I am not sure if an idiom is the same thing as a phrase. You may be thinking of a cliche and "stuck in a RUT" is a cliche. "Stuck in a road" is neither cliche nor idiom.


Is an idiom a cliche?

No, an idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning, while a cliche is an overused phrase or idea. Idioms are more unique and colorful in their language use, whereas cliches can be seen as trite or lacking in originality.


How can an idiom become an cliche?

Cliches are trite expressions that are over-used.


Is you are so hungry you could eat a horse an exaggeration or idiom?

A cliche


What is the difference between analogy and idiom?

An analogy is a comparison between two things to highlight their similarities, while an idiom is a phrase with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation of its individual words. Analogies are used to explain complex ideas by drawing parallels, whereas idioms are expressions unique to a language or culture.


What is the difference between an idiom and a descriptive phrase?

An idiom is a phrase whose meaning is not easily deduced from the individual words used, often carrying a symbolic or cultural connotation. A descriptive phrase, on the other hand, is simply a phrase that describes something without the use of figurative language.


What is the difference between an idiom and an idom?

"Idom" is not a word in English, so the difference is between a word and a non-word. An idiom is a phrase that cannot be understood unless you know the idiomatic meaning already. "On edge" is an example of an idiom because you are not literally standing on an edge - you are anxious or frustrated.


What is the difference between a cliche and original figurative expression?

A cliche used to be an original figurative expression, but it is so overused that it is no longer creative. An original figurative expression is a unique phrase that is like a simile or metaphor.


Is there a difference between a cliche and a platitude?

Yes, there is a difference. A cliche is an overused expression or idea, while a platitude is a trite or meaningless statement, often given as advice. While cliches are generally phrases that have lost their originality due to constant use, platitudes are often seen as superficial or lacking in depth.


What is black and white in idiom?

Meaning a very obvious difference between 2 things.


What is the difference between an idiom and a phrase?

You cannot understand an idiom without knowing ahead of time what it means. A phrase is just part of a normal sentence.


What is the meaning of the idiom 'She had her whole life ahead of her'?

This idiom has nearly reached cliche status. It is often offered in an eulogy as an expression that someone has died early (and usually expectantly) in life and was about to do great things with his or her life.