Idiom of the Day

 Let's start using idioms or idiomatic expressions when we write. When idioms are used, it add color and texture to language by creating images that convey meanings beyond those of the individual words that make them up. An idiom can be very colorful and make a 'picture' in our minds. It also shows the writer's familiarity with English. When you want to make your writing sound more conversational, including idioms can give your writing a more relaxed tone.

Idioms allow us to say a lot with few words. Idioms amplify your messages in a way that draws your readers in and helps awaken their senses. It adds dynamism and character to otherwise stale writing. They make your writing less monotonous and your readers will think that you are smart and knowledgeable. All the while ... you only clothe your writing with elaborate idioms to create an impact... saying too much with less. 

To perfect your English, you really need to become confident in using idioms and knowing the difference between breaking a leg and pulling someone's leg. So the idiom of the day is:

Idiom: Elephant In The Room

Meaning: Was there a real elephant in the room? NO ... are you crazy? The elephant in the room is a major problem or controversial issue that is obviously present but is being ignored or avoided as a subject for discussion. Refusing to talk about it is more acceptable and comfortable compared to talking about it at length.

If you say there is an elephant in the room, you mean there is an obvious issue or difficult situation that people don't want to explore and argue about.

No one is thrilled to talk about a subject that makes others uncomfortable. It can be scary to call out a sensitive topic. You talk and debate about it ... and somebody hearing you may misconstrue you as gossiping.  And the fear of offending somebody can make us quiet and zip our mouths shut. Whether the elephant is a topic known to all ... or only a few people are aware ... it is tricky to mention it because it might backfire on our faces. 

Origin: The phrase origin happened in 1814 when Russian  Ivan Andreevich Krylov (1769–1844), poet and fabulist, wrote a fable entitled "The Inquisitive Man".  It is about a man who visits a museum and notices every TINY little thing ... but falls flat to notice a HUMONGOUS elephant. 

Using It In A Sentence: We attended a wedding ... and everybody tries to avoid the elephant in the room (and that is ... the groom got married to his wife's older sister.)