Idiomatic Communication

Let’s assume your communication is more far reaching that one simple communication between two parties. And that there are multiple entities who have some investment in the shared knowledge. After all, our languages are not only to the usual complexities of one language but often use references to different European dialects. For instance I usually receive invitations with the added note RSVP, an initialism derived from the French phrase Répondez s’il vous plaît, meaning “Please respond” to require confirmation of an invitation.”

I do not speak French even though I have picked up knowledge a few common terms and completely understand what the message intends.

Let’s examine another common feature of the metaphorical nature of language and communication. The term “Shoot from the hip,” which essentially means to adlib or make an educated guess.

Idioms

Some idioms are prophetic. The slippery slope is in reality a hazardous trip on mud, ice, and politics. Once the momentum commandeers. Relentless gravity takes over the show. That’s why idioms become powerful figures of speech. Life unfolds at its own pace sweeping us into the eternal flow. When spinning out of control, the fall becomes terrifying, petrifying. Control is an illusion.

“A penny saved is. A penny earned.”

“Discretion is the better part of valor.”

“Easy come easy go”

“Slippery Slope.”

“Shoot from the hip.”

In fact language is complex and requires constant updates as different terms evolve in different paradigms.

Voice tone and inflections give words more specific meanings. Many pivotal words have multiple meanings hence the value of a thesaurus. Hate for instance can be said as abhor, detest, loathe, dislike, repulse, aversion, scorn, shun and denounce.

A few things can add emphasis to the meaning as well as point of view. These nuances can sever to emphasize or de emphasize and meanings can also be enhanced by punctuation. See how a slight pause and various inflections demonstrated by a comma can greatly change meaning,

“I” didn’t say she stole the money.”

“I DIDN’T say she stole the money.”

“I didn’t SAY she stole the money.”

“I didn’t say SHE stole the money.

“I didn’t say she STOLE the money.

“I didn’t say she stole THE money.”

“I” didn’t say she stole the MONEY.”

That is seven variations using the EXACT same seven words.

Each variation carries another meaning and when delivered with a variety voice inflections, that too effects meanings and point of view.

Treat your communications as an exercise of clearly expressing your intended meanings. Words themselves are just a component of expression. Emphasis clarifies those messages.