Idioms--Online Dictionaries

[RonBee]

I ran across what seem to be some pretty good resources for ESL leaners. These sites describe idioms for those who (for the most part) are not native to the language.

THE IDIOM CONNECTION
(descriptions of idioms along with helpful quizzes)
http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Aegean/6720/

Pine Crest School Idiom Collection
http://hray.com/idiom/

American English Idioms (a Chinese site)
http://www.paulnoll.com/China/Teach/English-idioms-01.html

[Edited for clarity.]

 

[Tdol]

I've added the first to our database. ;-)

 

[shane]

What a shame all Geocities sites are blocked here in China.

 

[Tdol]

I've added the second to our database. ;-)

 

[RonBee]

I've added the first to our database. ;-)

Kewl!

What do you think of my edit? Do you think it removes the ambiguity that was in the original?

 

[Red5]

What a shame all Geocities sites are blocked here in China.

That is a shame. :-(

 

[Tdol]

I've added the first to our database. ;-)

Kewl!

What do you think of my edit? Do you think it removes the ambiguity that was in the original?

Almost certainly, but I can't remember the original. Whatever I said, I meant what you put. ;-)

 

[RonBee]

:wink:

 

[Samantha]

What a shame all Geocities sites are blocked here in China.

(Hmm, I think it deleted my reply so I will try to send it again. Pardon the repeat-if any)

What exactly is it about Geocities sites that China feels the need to block it? Is it censorship because of who creates Geocities sites (they're free, aren't they?)or do they have a thing about the company? I was aware that the government could come in an search anything physically (this was a common occurance for my cousins) but how do they go about blocking certain websites from your computer? Please enlighten this sadly uncultured American. Thanks!

 

[fredericv]

Hello everybody,

Something I find rather difficult, is to find the English equivalent to a foreign idiom or expression.

Would anybody have an idea, where to find online resources for English/French expressions equivalence?

For example, I am now fighting with:
- Un sourire craquant
- Un nez en trompette.

The first means, if you're in front of this smile there is nothing you can do but melt, the second depicts the shape of someone's nose...

But I often have similar problems to write in English such expressions that I use without even thinking in French.

Thank you if you can help !

 

[Tdol]

Translating idioms is very difficult. We do say a 'disarming smile' and 'conk'will do for a big nose. However, you have to get the concept and then try to track down the idiomin the target language, which is very tricky. The best way is to pester native speakers. ;-)

 

[RonBee]

Tdol gave an excellent answer.