Vocabulary: Idioms & Fixed Expressions (C1) - Lesson 3: Clichés vs. Vivid Idioms: Choosing Your Words Wisely

Lesson 3: Clichés vs. Vivid Idioms Choosing Your Words Wisely Not all idioms have the same effect. Some have been used so frequently that they have lost their power and become clichés —phrases that can sound tired or unoriginal. In contrast, a vivid idiom creates a strong, fresh mental image. At the C1 level, developing an "ear" for this difference is crucial for making your language have a real impact and reflect a more sophisticated style. Key Vocabulary Cliché (noun) | ពាក្យ​ដែល​គេ​ប្រើ​ដដែលៗ A phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought. Vivid (adjective) | រស់រវើក Producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind. Impact (noun) | ឥទ្ធិពល A marked effect or influence. Comparing Clichés with Vivid Alternatives Let's look at some common ideas and contrast the clichéd way of expressing them with more vivid, powerful alternatives. Idea 1: Being Very Busy The Cliché: as busy as a bee This is correct, but it's overused and sounds a bit simple. V…