What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
idiom
Example
It's raining cats and dogs outside. [idiom: figurative expression]
Example
He kicked the bucket last night. [idiom: figurative expression]
phrase
Example
I'm going to the store. [phrase: group of words functioning as a unit]
Example
She's feeling under the weather today. [phrase: group of words conveying a specific meaning]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Phrase is more commonly used than idiom in everyday language. Phrase is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while idiom is less common and often used for creative and memorable expression.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between idiom and phrase?
Both idiom and phrase can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
