How to Understand Symbolic and Figurative English Expressions

Literal English word use and meaning has veryhow fads and new discoveries change language
structured formats and can be used to functionformats in both written and spoken English.
efficiently if one desires to be an English writer orFrom the:
operate in the English speaking world.Sentence Master Grammar Summary
Native English speakers use formal and literal wordSymbolic and Figurative Expressions Glossaryfad
use and meaning formats from zero to 80A fad is a colloquialism used to label a short-lived
percent of the time when they are speaking orfashion: something that is embraced very
writing. Native English speakers use informal orenthusiastically for a short time. A fad is a
symbolic or figurative formats when speaking orseemingly unimportant belief or practice that is
writing from 20 to 100 percent of the time.too strongly advocated, usually with regard to
If you want to always understand native Englishfood or fashion.
speakers then you have to also study the use ofThesaurus Synonyms: trend, craze, rage, mania,
informal, symbolic and figurative formats in bothvogue, style, whim, fashion.
written and spoken English.Trend: prevailing style: a current fashion or mode
The English language is composed of everyCraze: a practice or interest followed for a time
imagined symbolic expression used for writtenwith exaggerated zeal.
and spoken communications and adds newRage: A current, eagerly adopted fashion;
imagined "expressions" everyday. The number ofExample: when torn jeans were all the rage.
English words increases and word-use formatsMania: an irrational but irresistible motive for a
evolve everyday.belief or action
Some symbolic or figurative formats are writtenVogue: the popular taste at a given time, a
first and are adopted into spoken communications.current state of general acceptance and use
Some symbolic or figurative formats are spokenStyle: a way of expressing something (in language
on radio or a TV show first and then adoptedor art or music etc.) that is characteristic of a
into written communications.particular person or group of people or period
Native speakers have to learn new words orWhim: a sudden desire, an odd or fanciful or
evolved new "meanings" everyday to remaincapricious idea
current and up to date with fads or trends andFashion: The prevailing style or custom, as in
new discoveries. If you want to be current withdress or behavior. Something, such as a garment,
native English speakers then you have to studythat is in the current mode.