FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which expression is characteristic of a given language, often with a meaning not derived from its literal interpretation?

1. Idiom

2. Jargon

3. Dialect

4. Colloquialism

The correct answer is: Idiom

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning differing from its literal interpretation. For instance, saying someone "kicked the bucket" means that they have died, rather than literally kicking a bucket. Idioms are specific to a given language and can often be puzzling to non-native speakers because their meanings are not discernible from the individual words used. In contrast, jargon refers to specialized language used by a particular profession or group that may be difficult for outsiders to understand. Dialect signifies a regional or social variation of a language, characterized by distinct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Colloquialism relates to informal language or slang that is conversational in nature and specific to a particular region or group but does not necessarily carry a figurative meaning. Thus, the defining feature of an idiom is its characteristic of conveying a specific meaning that cannot be predicted from the words themselves, making it the correct answer in this context.