To get the highest speaking and writing scores, test-takers need to demonstrate proficiency in a variety of areas, including language use (OPDUL=C).
One way to demonstrate language use on the TOEFL iBT is by using idioms when you speak and write. However, for many non native English speakers, idiom usage can be challenging. Why? Because more often than not the idiom used is out of context (see idioms and the iBT for more). Or the test-taker thinks the idiom in her language works in this situation so the English version must work too. Not always true. Some test-takers memorize dozens of idioms without really understanding each context. A good example is the idiom "white lie" in the sample ETS essay, body paragraph analysis #1. This test-taker clearly does not understand this idiom (see the white lie idiom). So what should you do?
The Pro recommends this language use strategy. Become familiar with these six idioms. Know them like the back of your hand.
1. to kill two birds with one stone
2. a piece of cake
3. to have the best of both worlds
4. to feel like a fish out of water
5. You do the math.
6. Catch-22
These six idioms are the most commonly used idioms in my TOEFL classes. Why? Because in my TOEFL classes, we have practiced (and analyzed) every possible TOEFL speaking and writing prompt, and one of these six idioms has been used in at least one of those prompts. That means on test day, you can probably use one or two of these idioms when speaking and writing.
Start by understanding how and when to use each of the six idioms. Become a TOEFL pro using all six. Then learn six more popular English idioms (google "most popular English idioms"). Don't go crazy and learn idioms like "He's as crazy as a bag of hammers" or "That TOEFL teacher is not the sharpest tool in the shed." You will never use them on test day, so why waste time and energy studying them?
The Dead Fly v. The Rainbow
When I rate essays and spoken responses, I always look for idioms. An idiom in the wrong place (out of context) can really kill a response. It's like a dead fly in your soup. The soup smells good, looks good, and boy are you hungry! But that dead fly really is a problem. In fact, it is a game changer. However, one good idiom used in the right context is like a rainbow rising off the page (or flying out of the speaker). More importantly, an idiom used in the right context will take your spoken and written responses to the next scoring level while a dead fly will...Well, you do the math.
The Pro
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© Bruce Stirling 2011
