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: Steal Someone's Thunder

MEANING: To take credit for what someone else did. It also can be applied to someone taking attention from someone else for his advantage. To do what someone else would do before they do it, (especially if this takes success or praise away from them) is stealing someone's thunder.

If Paula said, "I did everything so my son will finish college." The statement is not true. Her sister Melanie working in the Middle East shouldered her son's tuition fees.  Paula was only giving his son's weekly allowance. Paula was stealing the thunder from Melanie's.

ORIGIN: If you have been reading the life of John Dennis who created an innovative thunder machine in his 1709 play Appius and Virginia ... this is where it originated.

When the play Macbeth on the other hand was shown ... the Shakespeare team used John Dennis's thunder techniques without his knowledge. Not even his consent or authorization. 

 

According to some writers ... John Dennis accidentally watched the showing of Macbeth ... so when the thunder scenes were enacted ... he was short of being a rumble of thunder:" That is my thunder by G_d. The villains will play my thunder, but not my plays.

USING IT IN A SENTENCE: Arnold is stealing John's thunder when he announces to his friends he is opening a restaurant before John can say a word. Owning a restaurant is John's dream baby and he has planned it for years. He has everything wrapped up ... all he needs is the big announcement but Arnold pre-empted it.