How to Write Idioms

"It's raining cats and dogs" or "It's raining pitchforks" indicates a heavy rain.

Idioms are a collection of words, which, when put together, mean something different than the individual meanings of each word. Writing idioms can be difficult, but they make your writing more interesting and engaging for the reader. Idioms are a way to say things in a new way that connects to the readers senses -- sight, smell, sound, taste and touch. Idioms also appeal to readers' emotions. To write idioms, practice experimenting with imagery and feelings to bring life to your writing.

Instructions

1. 

   "Thinking outside the box" is an idiom that means solving a problem in a different way.

   Brainstorm ideas for your writing by making a web of ideas for your topic. List ideas as you think of them, letting one general idea lead you to more specific ideas. Create an outline. List main ideas and supporting details for each paragraph in your outline.

2. Pick an event or description of an element from your writing that you would like to describe in a more engaging way. Circle it on your outline. List words to describe your chosen event or element. If you are describing Grandma's chocolate chip cookies, describe the smell, taste, texture, and appearance of the cookies. Think of how Grandma's voice sounds when she asks if you want another cookie. "Grandma's cookies are heaven on earth," describes the cookies with a well-coined idiom.

3. 

   "Cash cow" describes finding a product or idea that provides you with a profit over and over, according to the Idiom Dictionary.

   Play with words to come up with the perfect idiom, when you have decided which sense you are trying to get across. If you are describing your friend's green eyes, look at lists you've made. Put words together to see which phrase imparts the imagery or feeling you desire. "Her eyes are as green as the grass." "Her eyes are as green as jade." "Her eyes are emeralds."

4. Decide which word-play phrases fit your writing. The idiomatic phrase that suits your writing will flow with the writing. Read it out loud. If the phrase helps seal the imagery you want to get across, you have the correct idiom. If it does not, start over until you are "right on the money" with your idiom phrase.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't use idioms to describe everything. Your writing will be difficult to read with too many idioms.

References

• Skwirk Interactive Schooling; Simile, Metaphor, Idioms, Personification, Extended Metaphor; Required Skills and Knowledge
• Ellerbruch; Northern Michigan University; Descriptive Words
• The Writer Magazine; Writing Out Loud; Randall Silvalls, May 2011
• Idiom Dictionary; What Is Cash Cow? Meaning and Definition

Resources

• Idiom Dictionary