Which of the following is an example of an idiomatic expression?

Which of the following is an example of an idiomatic expression?

• A. Break the ice
• B. Run quickly
• C. Beautifully written
• D. Go to sleep

Answer: (A)

An idiomatic expression is a phrase or an expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal interpretation. "Break the ice" is an example of an idiomatic expression because it does not mean literally cracking ice; rather, it refers to initiating conversation in a social setting, easing tension, or starting a friendly interaction among people who may not know each other well. In contrast, the other options consist of either straightforward phrases or actions that can be interpreted literally. "Run quickly" simply describes a manner of running, "beautifully written" is a description of writing quality, and "go to sleep" straightforwardly instructs someone to fall asleep. None of these options convey a meaning that significantly diverges from their literal definitions, distinguishing them from an idiomatic expression like "break the ice."

An idiomatic expression is a phrase or an expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal interpretation. "Break the ice" is an example of an idiomatic expression because it does not mean literally cracking ice; rather, it refers to initiating conversation in a social setting, easing tension, or starting a friendly interaction among people who may not know each other well.

In contrast, the other options consist of either straightforward phrases or actions that can be interpreted literally. "Run quickly" simply describes a manner of running, "beautifully written" is a description of writing quality, and "go to sleep" straightforwardly instructs someone to fall asleep. None of these options convey a meaning that significantly diverges from their literal definitions, distinguishing them from an idiomatic expression like "break the ice."