Read the dictionary definition of "idiom" and answer the questions. 1 Which of the phrases in Ex. 4A, p. 71 are idioms according to the definition? 2 What is the function of idioms? 3 Why is it difficult to translate idioms?

1 die hard/dot every' "i" and cross every "t' / by and large

2 Idioms enrich the language, adding colour and emotion to what is being said.

3 It is difficult to translate idioms because they all have a cultural background.

Some have interesting historical origins, others may be borrowed from other languages, etc.