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 meaning]
Example
Kick the bucket means to die. [idiom: unique expression]
saying
Example
Actions speak louder than words. [saying: common truth]
Example
You can't judge a book by its cover. [saying: proverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Saying is more commonly used than idiom in everyday language. Saying is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while idiom is less common and may be more difficult for non-native speakers to understand.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between idiom and saying?
Saying can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while idiom is less common in formal writing and may be considered more informal or colloquial.
