The article discusses the challenge posed by the 171,476 words and numerous idioms in the English language for new learners. It highlights specific American idioms that confuse non-native speakers, such as "break a leg" and "put lipstick on a pig." Contributions from foreign-born Americans showcase their struggles with these expressions. Overall, while idioms can be amusing, they can also create barriers for those trying to grasp the language's nuances, as they differ significantly from literal interpretations.
"Every time I hear this phrase I think of literally someone with a broken leg and that vision frightens me. The reason for this is that I heard this phrase when I was starting to learn English, and I was taking everything with its literal meaning. Later on, I understood that it means good luck, but I cannot manage to remove the vision from my mind." â Olga Grijalva Alvarez, a Mexican travel content creator
"I hate pigs and the visual of that grosses me out." â Jihan Fawaz, a Lebanese language instructor who runs the YouTube account Learn Turkish with Jihan
"I'm always surprised when a server at a restaurant asks if I'm still working on my food. I'm not working on it! I'm savoring it!" â Virginia Langhammer, a Brazilian who teaches.
"Spill the tea? It's a lot for a new English speaker to take in!"
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