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Idiom: an expression, word, or phrase that has a figurative meaning that is comprehended in regard to a common use of that expression that is separate from the literal meaning or definition of the words of which it is made.

That's the official definition, but more simply idioms are typically phrases that have known meanings different from what would be expected by simply trying to define the words. Examples would be:

"kick the bucket" (die)

"a dime a dozen" (common or easily attainable)

"bite your tongue" (keep quiet)

"between a rock and a hard place" (in a situation with no easy solution)

Euphemism: a substitution for an expression that may offend or suggest something unpleasant to the receiver, using instead an agreeable or less offensive expression, or to make it less troublesome for the speaker.

They can be meant to be amusing or funny, or to conceal meaning or mislead. Typically in English they're used in subjects such as religion, excretion, death, and sex.

"gosh" instead of God

"home run" for sex

"pass away" instead of die

"big boned" instead of overweight

"knocked up" instead of pregnant

Source(s):Wikipedia, dictionary.com, general knowledge from being a writing major.
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12y ago
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5d ago

An idiom is a phrase that has a different meaning than its literal interpretation (e.g., "kick the bucket"), while a euphemism is a milder or less direct word used in place of a harsh or unpleasant one (e.g., "passed away" instead of "died").

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Q: What is the difference between an idiom and a euphemism?
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What is the difference between an idiom and an euphenism?

An idiom is a phrase where the meaning is different from the literal interpretation of the words used, often unique to a particular language or culture. A euphemism, on the other hand, is a milder or more indirect word or phrase used to replace one that is considered too harsh, offensive, or blunt. So, while an idiom may not be literal, a euphemism is about replacing specific words with softer alternatives.


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.


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 euphemism for gullible?

The euphemism for gullible is "credulous."

Related questions

What is the difference between euphemism and dysphemism?

What is the difference between euphemism and dysphemism?" Dysphemism is negative words and euphemism is more towards positive words


What is thank goodness meaning in idioms?

"Goodness" is a euphemism for "God" - it's not an idiom, but a euphemism.


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 a euphemism for fight?

One idiom for fighting is "coming to blows". Another is "battling it out".


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 black and white in idiom?

Meaning a very obvious difference between 2 things.


Where does the idiom keeping your nose clean come from?

A British police euphemism meaning to keep out of trouble, commit no crimes


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 difference between a love child and a bastard?

There is no difference. "Love child" is a euphemism for "bastard". They both mean someone whose parents are not married to each other.


What is the difference between idiom and idiomatic expression?

An idiom is a phrase that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning, while an idiomatic expression is a specific phrase or sentence structure that is characteristic of a particular language or dialect. Idioms are a type of idiomatic expression, but not all idiomatic expressions are idioms.


What is the difference of a simile metaphor and an idiom?

idiom is like discribe e.g as light as a feather