As a communication coach, I help people speak clearly and connect with their listeners. When we’re explaining something technical, an idiom can make the message easier to grasp. And when we’re trying to make a point without sounding too direct, an idiom can paint a vivid picture.
But here’s the catch: idioms can backfire. If they’re unfamiliar or confusing, the speaker ends up working harder to get the message across, and risk losing trust or credibility in the process.
Idioms and stories both simplify complex ideas, and create mental pictures for the listener. An idiom is like compressed wisdom, a quick phrase that assumes shared understanding. A story, on the other hand, builds that understanding by showing the lesson in action. While idioms are fast and familiar, they can confuse if the listener doesn’t know the reference. Stories take a little more time, but they invite connection and leave a deeper impact. If an idiom is a spark, a story is the fire that keeps people listening.
An idiom is a phrase or expression with a meaning different from the literal words. For example, “spill the beans” means to reveal a secret, but if someone hasn’t heard that phrase before, it can leave them puzzled.
A recent Wall Street Journal article, “The Ford Executive Who Kept Score of Colleagues’ Verbal Flubs,” highlights how even experienced professionals can misuse idiomatic language, leading to confusion or unintentional humor. Mike O’Brien, a sales executive at Ford, kept track of over 2,000 verbal flubs from colleagues, phrases like “Let’s not reinvent the ocean,” or “I don’t want to sound like a broken drum here.” These moments show how tricky idioms can be when they miss the mark.
While idioms can add color and personality to our speech, they may also leave some listeners behind, especially if they’re from a different part of the world, or even just a different cultural background.
Misunderstood phrases can subtly erode our credibility and make it harder to build trust.
To communicate more clearly and inclusively:
- Be mindful of your listeners: Consider whether your audience will understand the idioms you use. When in doubt, leave it out.
- Use idioms wisely: They can be great tools, but only if they support your message and are easy to follow.
- Encourage feedback: Invite questions and clarification. That openness builds connection and shows respect.
Being intentional with your language helps you connect rather than confuse. The goal is always to be understood and to make your listeners feel included.
