INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 03,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 234
TEACHING IDIOMS THROUGH 20
TH
CENTURY LITERATURE AND ITS ROLE IN
ENHANCING LANGUAGE SKILLS FOR B2-LEVEL LEARNERS
Iskandarova Diyora
Student of UZSWLU
Abstract:
This research article explores the use of idioms in 20th-century literature and their role
in enhancing language skills for B2-level learners. By analyzing idiomatic expressions in notable
literary works from the 20th century, this study provides insights into how literature can facilitate
the acquisition of idioms, improve cultural awareness, and foster critical thinking.
Keywords:
Idiomatic expressions, 20th-century literature, B2-level learners, language learning,
vocabulary acquisition, figurative language, cultural context, critical thinking, pedagogy, second
language acquisition.
Introduction
Idioms are a critical component of language learning, representing cultural and linguistic
nuances essential for achieving fluency. For intermediate English learners, idioms can often be
challenging due to their non-literal meanings and cultural contexts. As highlighted by Wray
(2002), idiomatic expressions require a deep understanding of cultural and linguistic contexts,
making their teaching both a challenge and an opportunity for educators.
This article examines idiomatic expressions within 20th-century literature and their application
in teaching English to B2-level learners. Literature provides a rich, contextual backdrop for
idioms, making it an ideal medium for teaching both linguistic and cultural aspects of language.
Furthermore, the analysis of idioms can enhance critical thinking by encouraging learners to
explore figurative language and thematic depth. Incorporating such literature into language
learning for B2-level learners—those with intermediate proficiency—can make idioms more
accessible and meaningful.
Findings and Discussion
Idiomatic Expressions in 20th-Century Literature
1. Early 20th Century
George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion is one of the most notable works of the early 20th century.
Idioms such as "Put your foot in it" (to say or do something that causes embarrassment or a
social blunder), "Not one’s cup of tea" (something that one does not particularly enjoy), "Turn
over a new leaf" (to start behaving in a better way), "Hit the nail on the head" (to describe a
situation accurately), and "The writing on the wall" (a clear sign that something negative is about
to happen) are used to convey character traits, societal norms, and human relationships. These
idioms provide learners with historical and cultural insights, enhancing their interpretive skills.
The idioms in Pygmalion are still commonly used in modern English. By learning them, students
enrich their vocabulary and improve their ability to communicate effectively in real-world
situations.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 03,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 235
2. Mid-20th Century
J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye is a rich source of idiomatic expressions that offer
valuable insights into the language and the mindset of its characters. For B2-level learners,
understanding and using idiomatic expressions from such texts can significantly enhance their
language skills, making them sound more natural in conversation.
Examples of idioms in the novel include:
a) 'Get a kick out of' – to enjoy something very much.
b) 'In a nutshell' – to summarize something concisely.
c) 'Give someone the creeps' – to make someone feel uneasy or uncomfortable.
b) d) 'Throw in the towel' – to give up or admit defeat.
e) 'In the dark' – to be unaware or uninformed about something.
3. Late 20th Century
Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays with Morrie offers profound life lessons while presenting various
idiomatic expressions commonly used in everyday language. Expressions such as 'Live in the
moment' (to focus on the present), 'Go out with a bang' (to end something in a dramatic way),
and 'A heart full of love' (to be deeply affectionate and caring) provide learners with practical
language skills for both personal and academic settings.
Role in Language Learning
Idiomatic expressions from literature serve as effective tools for vocabulary acquisition. By
encountering idioms in context, learners develop a deeper understanding of their meanings and
usages. This aligns with Boers et al. (2006), who argue that contextual learning enhances
retention and comprehension.
Moreover, idioms provide cultural insights, helping learners navigate the socio-cultural
dimensions of language. For instance, organizing role-play activities based on Pygmalion allows
learners to explore the cultural, historical, philosophical, and mythological contexts of Shaw’s
work.
Analyzing idioms within literary contexts fosters critical thinking by encouraging learners to
interpret figurative language and identify underlying themes. This process aligns with the
findings of Lazar (1993), who emphasizes the role of literature in developing interpretive skills.
Conclusion
Teaching idiomatic expressions through 20th-century literature offers a dynamic and effective
approach to language learning. By contextualizing idioms within literary narratives, educators
can enhance learners’ linguistic competence, cultural understanding, and critical thinking skills.
The findings underscore the value of literature as a pedagogical tool for intermediate learners,
demonstrating that idioms, when taught creatively, can transform language learning into a deeply
enriching experience.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 03,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 236
Future research could expand on these findings by exploring the use of literature from diverse
cultures and its impact on idiom acquisition. Additionally, incorporating multimedia adaptations
of literary works could provide learners with a multisensory approach to understanding idiomatic
expressions.
References:
1. Albom, M. (1997). Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life's Greatest
Lesson. Doubleday.
2. Boers, F., Eyckmans, J., & Stengers, H. (2006). Idioms and Language Users. Applied
Linguistics, 27(2), 182-209.
3. Lazar, G. (1993). Literature and Language Teaching: A Guide for Teachers and Trainers.
Cambridge University Press.
4. Salinger, J. D. (1951). The Catcher in the Rye. Little, Brown and Company.
5. Shaw, G. B. (1913/2003). Pygmalion. Penguin Classics. (Original work published 1913)
6. Villalobos Matarrita, M. A. (2020). The Importance of Idiomatic Expressions in Learning
English as a Foreign Language. Retrieved from Scribd.
7. Wray, A. (2002). Formulaic Language and the Lexicon. Cambridge University Press.
