Literal and Pragmatic Meanings in Teaching Idioms

Shady Abuyusuf

Sun, 19 May 2024

116

Introduction

Teaching English idioms to English as a Foreign Language (EFL) or English as a Second Language (ESL) learners can be a perplexing yet essential task in language education. Idioms, as fixed expressions with meanings that often do not rely on the direct translation of words, can challenge students who rely on literal understanding of language. Therefore, it is vital to differentiate between the literal and pragmatic meanings of idioms, and to present language learners with strategies to interpret and use idiomatic expressions accurately and effectively.

Literal Meaning vs. Pragmatic Meaning

1. Understanding Literal Meaning

Literal meaning refers to the direct, exact interpretation of the words in an expression or sentence. When a text is taken literally, students interpret each word according to its basic definition, without considering any hidden implications or cultural nuances. While this approach can be effective for understanding straightforward language, it often fails to capture the true essence of idiomatic expressions.

For example, the idiom “break a leg” has a literal meaning of physically breaking a leg, which can be confusing to language learners since the expression is actually used to wish someone good luck, particularly in theatrical performances.

2. Grasping Pragmatic Meaning

Pragmatic meaning, on the other hand, focuses on the context in which an expression is used and the intention behind it. It takes into account factors such as cultural background, situational context, and the speaker’s and listener’s shared knowledge, as well as other non-verbal cues such as tone and body language.

Teaching English idioms effectively requires understanding and conveying the pragmatic meaning behind them. By providing the context and cultural insights, instructors can help students navigate the intricacies of idiomatic expressions in real-life situations.

Strategies for Teaching English Idioms to EFL/ESL Students

1. Contextual Examples

Providing relevant and diverse examples is key to helping students understand the pragmatic meaning of idioms. Using real-life situations or engaging scenarios can encourage learners to infer the intended meaning, without getting lost in literal interpretations.

2. Creative Activities

Incorporate fun and innovative activities such as role-plays, games, or storytelling to expose students to idioms in various cultural and social settings. These activities can offer opportunities to practice using idioms in a supportive and constructive environment.

3. Exploring Etymology

Delve into the origins of idioms to give students the historical and cultural background of an expression. Understanding the etymology can help learners build connections between the figurative and literal meanings of an idiom, simplifying comprehension and retention.

4. Encourage Deductive Reasoning

Promote deductive reasoning by challenging students to decipher the pragmatic meanings of idioms based on situational context and surrounding language cues. Develop exercises that require them to evaluate contexts and infer the intended meaning of newly encountered idiomatic expressions.

Conclusion

Teaching English idioms to EFL/ESL learners is essential for fostering linguistic and cultural competence in the target language. By distinguishing between the literal and pragmatic meanings of idiomatic expressions, and employing effective teaching strategies, educators can help students unlock the enigmatic world of idioms and navigate the English language with confidence and fluency.