CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL
Date _____________________
The research paper attached hereto entitled, “A Study of Idioms used in Work Horoscope
Section on the Web”, prepared and submitted by Nuda Archavaboon in partial fulfillment of
the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Arts (English) is hereby accepted.
______________________________
MRS. ROSEMARIE BERGADO
Advisor
_______________________________
MR. NAKONTHEP TIPAYASUPARAD
Head, English Language Department
III ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to acknowledge and extend my heartfelt gratitude to the following persons
who have made the completion of this term paper possible: To Mrs. Rosemarie Bergado
for persevering with me as my advisor through out the time.
I am grateful to many people who shared their memories and experiences, especially to
the seniors.
My thanks and appreciation to my family and friends for the help and inspiration they
extend as well as the their vital encouragement and support.
Nuda Archavaboon
IV ABSTRACT
Idioms are part of the language. They exist in all language and best used in spoken rather
than written language. As we are English language learners, we should learn idioms for more
fluency as well as to understand the English culture. The horoscope section in the website is
a great source of idioms.
The research aims to present a study of idioms used in Daily Work Horoscope section
from www.astrology.com of 8 days from July 1 - 7, 2008. Additionally, the research shows
the prediction into 12 months per day and the selected idioms were cut.
The data were analyzed by the meanings of the idioms, more explanation, and their origins
also with the types of idioms and the example sentences of how to used them in context.
V CONTENTS
Page
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
III
ABSTRACT
IV
1. INTRODUCTION
1
2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
3
INTERNET
3
Definition of the Internet
3
What is Internet?
4
What are WWW and other components of the Internet?
5
The Website Organized by Functions
5
Types of websites
6
Why people use the Internet?
8
Advantages of the Internet
9
IDIOM
11
Definition and Features of Idiom
11
Characteristics of Idiom
12
The Importance of Idioms
13
Why English language is full of idiomatic expressions?
13
How idioms are used?
13
Types of Idiomatic Expressions
15
HOROSCOPE
17
What is Horoscope?
18
How Horoscope work?
19
Horoscope in the Present
20
3. METHODOLOGY
21
METERIAL
21
VI Page
RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS
21
DATA COLLECTION
22
THE PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED
22
4. RESULT AND DISCUSSION
23
5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
65
REFERENCES
67
1 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
In this communication age, communications and mass media take an important role in
our life. Communications, computers, and media are converging these days. Media affects
and influences the nation and the world through many different ways. You can often see a
world where media can control and alter human life. Media reaches large numbers of the
public via radio, television, movies, magazines, newspapers and the World Wide Web. The
mass media have a few main functions, which include informing, educating and entertaining
Presently, we can say that internet media spread ideas and concepts around the world
and are even more powerful than the printed media.
Very few people have never heard of the Internet; however most people have either
used the Internet occasionally or frequently. The internet is quickly becoming the center of
mass media. Everything is becoming accessible via the internet. Instead of picking up a
newspaper, or watching the 10 o'clock news, people will log onto the internet to get the news
they want, when they want it. Many workers listen to the radio through the internet while
sitting at their desk. Games are played through the internet. Even the education system relies
on the internet. The internet thus far has become an extremely dominant form of media. It
plays a large role in satisfying our craving for information.
The major language in internet media is English. English is the new world language
and is spoken world-wide. People who want to surf the internet ought to know English. As
English is a second language to learn, most countries usually put an English course in the
school and encourage their people to study. Thus, structure, vocabulary, phonology and etc in
school are taught. However, to speak like native speakers learners have to know more about
the natural language of conversation. Idioms are the key to real English conversation. If you
2 want to be able to speak and understand English, one must learn idioms.
Idioms play a very important part in English. Idioms make the conversation more
interesting and natural. Idioms are used so frequently and extensively in movies, music, and
literature and in conversations among native English speakers. Normal American speech is
full of idioms. American idioms can cause confusion and frustrate many English language
learners.
This paper aims to help the readers become proficient in using idioms. The
researcher is going to study the idioms used in work horoscope column in astrology website
from July 14 to 19, 2008. The researcher will first analyze the idioms, then explains their
meaning and usage. The research also gives example sentences. Thereafter the researcher will
give the conclusion and recommendations.
3 CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
The purpose of this section is to provide background knowledge of this term paper.
The researcher divided the contents into 3 main parts, which can be separated as follows:
1.
Data about internet/website
2.
Data about idioms
3.
Data about horoscope
INTERNET
Nowadays, the Internet is the world's largest source of information on every subject
known to humankind. The Internet surpassed more than one billion users.
Definition of the Internet
The internet is the shared global computing network which enables global
communications between all connected computing devices. In other word, The Internet is an
immense collection of networks that are interconnected on a global basis providing services
to the general public. It is linked by communication lines (เรียนการใชงาน INTERNET และ World
Wide Web ดวยตนเอง, 4). The common language for communication on the Internet is English.
According to John Allen Paulos, “The Internet is the world's largest library. It's just
that all the books are on the floor”( http://www.quotegarden.com/internet.html).
4 Bill Gates said that the Internet is becoming the town square for the global
village of tomorrow (ibid).
What is Internet?
The Internet was developed in 1969 for the U.S. Department of Defense, Funded
from the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) allowed researchers to experiment
with methods for computers to communicate with each other. The whole operation was
referred to as ARPANET (เรียนการใชงาน INTERNET และ World Wide Web ดวยตนเอง, 12).
At that time, the Internet was designed in part to provide communications network
that would work even if some of the sites were destroyed by nuclear attack. The early Internet
was used by computer experts, engineers, scientists, and librarians. The Internet then
gradually grew to include educational and research institutions. It has quickly spread to the
world of commerce (ibid13).
There is no one who owns the networks. Connecting to the Internet, the users have to pay
only the fee to the Internet Service Provider or ISP1 for making a connection of computer to
the network and also pay for the domestic telephone charges (ibid10).
1
A commercial or community organizations who are offering broadband or dial-up
access. ISPs range from international services through regional and local services and
community-based free networks.
5 What are WWW and other components of the Internet?
World Wide Web referred to as WWW or the web, is a way of accessing information
over the medium of the Internet. The web may be thought of as a very large subset of the
Internet, consisting of hypertext and hypermedia documents (Internet Technology, 72).
Web page is a document on the web. A collection of Web pages makes up a web site.
The language used to display web pages is called HTML; it stands for Hypertext Markup
Language. Web pages are accessed by the user via a web browser application such as
Internet Explorer, Netscape and Firefox (ibid, 75).Web pages is identified by
a unique URL, it stands for Uniform Resource Locator. The last three characters on the URL
identify whether the pages are the part of a commercial (com), education (edu), organization
(org), government (gov), or network (net) site.
The Website Organized by Functions
There are several types of web sites on the Internet each specializing in a particular
service or use. There are five major groups of websites
(http://www.webdesignref.com/chapters/01/ch1-04.htm).
1.
Commercial
The purpose of this type of website is to sell products or services. Commercial
websites are used for promoting a business or service and are among the most common type
of website on the internet. The Internet address often ends with .com.
2.
Personal
The purpose of this type of website is to provide information about an
individual or group. This type of website is run by an individual or a small group (such as a
family) that contains information or any content that the individual wishes to include. A
personal website is not really private. The public will be the visitors to your website and they
will be from all over the world. The Internet address has a variety of endings.
6 3.
Educational
The purpose of this type of website is to provide information about an
educational establishment or to present information in an educational manner. The Internet
address ends in .edu.
4.
Organizational
The purpose of this type of website is to advocate an individual's opinion or a
group's point of view. If the website is a non-profit site the Internet address often ends with
.org.
5.
Government
The purpose of this type of website is to provide information produced by
government agencies, offices, and departments. Usually, information provided by
government websites is very reliable. The Internet address often ends with .gov
Types of websites
There are many different types of websites. Some of the more common ones are listed
below (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Website):
1.
Blog
A website that is used to log online readings or to post online diaries; may
include discussion forums or chat rooms.
2.
Communities
Webs take the form of a social network service, an Internet forum, a group of
blogs, or another kind of social software web application. People can share a common
interest, give advice and so on.
7 3.
Content web sites
Content sites contain some sort of content library. Good example is
About.com. All of these sites have thousands or millions of pages of content in their libraries.
4.
Corporate web sites
They provide information to users about the company and also provide contact
information. The corporate web site is useful for companies who are planning to use the web
site as a marketing tool.
5.
E-commerce Websites
The objective of an e-commerce website is sales, or more specifically to
increase sales and decrease marketing expenses. Ecommerce web sites are those which allow
you to buy something online and complete a transaction by paying for it online as well.
6.
Entertainment Website
The purpose of this type of website is to entertain and provide amusement
like fan site and game site.
7.
News Website
The purpose of this type of website is to provide information about current
events and opinions. This form of website is most often dedicated to dispensing news and
commentary but should also elicit feedback from your visitors.
8.
Portals
It is a gateway to information from various sources. This can be particularly
helpful when a company has many offices around the country or world. Employees of the
company are then able to search for company related information that other employees have
published. This information can be simple things like a phone directory or more sensitive
information such as market research reports.
8 9.
Search Engines
Search engines are probably the single most useful tool on the Internet.
Without them it would be next to impossible to find anything.
10.
Web Apps and intranets:
It allows you to perform business critical activities such as have online
meetings, transact with world wide customers and even bank online.
Why people use the Internet?
The usage of the Internet can be divided into six broad categories: business, education,
entertainment, information, networking, and shopping (เปดตัวใหโลกรูจักดวยอินเตอรเน็ต, 29-64).
1.
Business and Conduct transactions
The internet and web browser has become essential tool for business. The
Internet is not just an avenue for advertising today; it is as much a channel for carrying out
business itself. For instance, buying and selling products, services and advice. Moreover, the
internet is famed for speed and efficiently in making transactions easier. Many most
standards kinds of transaction as do banking, bill paying, do auctions, payment for utilities,
booking movie ticket and so on.
2.
Education
The Internet is also a major source of information and education to people of
all ages, with their own specific needs. People study from where they are by attending classes
online. With many universities and institutes starting online courses, people virtually
anywhere in the world can enroll for courses and education in the top universities.
3.
Entertainment
Entertainment is another very major use of the Internet nowadays. People goes
online to read for pleasure, listen to music, watch movies, TV varieties or series, play games
9 in not only having fun but automatically exchanging knowledge and their cultures as well.
4.
Sharing and Finding information
The most widespread use of the internet today is to getting information about all
kinds of topic. You can also share the information by join a group or communities; create
your own blogs and etc. Net is as a large library where you can search for all information,
knowledge, global news, and keep in touch with world movement whenever you want and
wherever you are. You don’t have to go out from place to place, especially to some closedcountries of no broadcasting news either by radio or by television and no publication of
newspapers.
5.
Social Activities
Email is by far the most common internet activity and also instant messages. It
offers a cheap and easy alternative to traditional methods of communication. People use
Internet to communicate and make friends with other people from across the world. Obviously internet is the union meeting point of all kinds of people in no limit of nationality,
religion or classification.
6.
Shopping
People go shopping online in buying all kinds of goods from all over the
world and arrange payments by credit cards.
Advantages of the Internet
(เรียนการใชงาน INTERNET และ World Wide Web ดวยตนเอง, 8-9)
For Children and Students
Internet gives advantages of learning. Students can search information for learning more
and making reports, and also can contact processor’s exterior classes. They can send
homework from home and also can consult with their teachers. It also helps improving skills
and gain globalize knowledge of new events.
10 For People who always stay home
Provide convenience to housewives and people who always stay home - to
manage things easily and fast like shopping, read newspapers online, finding recipes and
menus, for examples.
For Everyone
Internet network provides aids faster and in time to those who needs help. As it is
widely used everywhere in the world and availability of high speed online, the shouts for help
are rapidly spread to one another.
For Workers
Workers can improve their work or skills to efficient performances, and businessmen
can learn about new business and get tacktics to manage sales and marketing by learning
information and knowledge from net.
For researchers
Analysts and scientists from all over the world can share information and join the
project.
The Internet’s value in life
Bill Clinton stated that advances in computer technology and the Internet have
changed the way America works, learns, and communicates. The Internet has become an
integral part of America's economic, political, and social life.
(http://www.quotegarden.com/internet.html).
11 IDIOMS
Idioms are fascinating and play a major part in the non-standard speech or dialect that is
natural to the English people and Americans. Idioms are used frequently and extensively.
Native speakers of English use idioms all the time. They are often unaware of the idioms they
use in speech and writing.This means that communication with native speakers of English
can be quite a confusing experience. One of the main problems the English language learners
have with idioms is they have hidden meanings. The expressions do not mean exactly what
the words say. Thus, understanding its meaning and its usage is important. The researcher
will next explain what an idiom is , the importance of idioms, and answer the question, “Why
English and especially American English are full of idioms? ”. The researcher will also
discuss the types of idioms and how they are used.
What is an Idiom?
Definition and Features of Idiom
An idiom is a commonly used phrase, expression or groups of words
whose meaning cannot be understood from the ordinary meanings of the words.
(Longman dictionary of English idioms, 1979). It is a phrase which does not always follow
the normal rules of meaning and grammar. Idioms give a language color, character, variety
and flavor to both the listener and the speaker (Cambridge International Dictionary of Idioms,
1998)
According to James B. Hogins, the author of Contemporary Exposition (1978), an
idiom is: "A word or words combined in a phrase that is used as a habitual and peculiar
expression in the language” (http://www.helium.com/items/143267-what-is-an-idiom).
To sum up, an idiom is defined as a group of words whose meaning must be known
as a whole because it cannot be learned from the meaning of the same words used separately.
12 Idioms often founded in informal spoken English rather than to formal written English
(http://www.helium.com/items/143267-what-is-an-idiom). However, idioms can often be
very difficult to understand. Even if you know the meaning of all words, you will probably
not understand the idiom. Idioms can cause confusion and frustration (NTC’s American
idioms dictionary). Sometimes the meaning of the idioms can be guessed from the meaning
of one of the words but usually the meaning is completely different.
For example, “to show a leg”, regardless of what the separate words might suggest
means “to get up” (http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/Show+a+leg).
An idiom is an expression with the following characteristics and features
(http://www.idiomconnection.com/whatis.html)
1.
The grammatical form of an idiom is invariable and fixed. They must be used as they
are, without any change in the order of words.
2.
Idioms have no literal meaning. The meaning of an idiom is always metaphorical
rather than literal.
3.
Many of idioms are grammatically incorrect. It does not always follow the normal
rules of meaning and grammar.
4.
Some idioms may require some special cultural knowledge to easily understand them.
5.
Idioms can be changes in nouns, pronouns or in the verb tenses. For instance, “I sat on
the fence…” can be “I was sitting on the fence …” (ibid).
6.
Adjectives and adverbs can also be added to an idiomatic phrase. For instance, “The
players have been sitting squarely in the middle of the fence since the match” (ibid).
13 The Importance of Idioms
Idioms are a part of language. Idioms are commonly used in everyday conversation.
They give meaning more vividly and often more briefly than a long literal explanation
would do. Without idioms English would lose much of its variety and humor both in speech
and writing. Idioms are usually founded in the conversation among the native speakers.
Learning about idioms in English can make your English much more colorful and interesting.
You will speak English in a more natural way. Additionally, your language skill will increase
rapidly if you can understand idioms and use them confidently and correctly.
Why English and especially American English are full of idiomatic expressions?
English is a language particularly rich in idioms. English is a dynamic and changing
language. Because of the nature of the language, words and phrases are constantly being
added or subtracted. Since language is always developed, we have to use new expressions of
them. It is more convenient to make new words by using some already existing words and
combining them in a new sense and create new meanings (A dictionary of American idioms,
1975, 8).
How idioms are used?
Understanding and Using American Idioms
There are a great number and vast variety of idioms in everyday use. Idioms can be
found either in spoken English or in written English. They also can be used in a formal and
informal way. Non-native English speakers often have problems determining the exact form
and word of an idiomatic expression use in a particular situation (Oxford Pocket English
Idioms, 7)
14 Additionally, learning idioms present a host of difficulties to English learners, primarily
because they don’t know the culture and history behind English idioms. That is why they
often use idioms incongruous with the situation (ibid).
To use idiom correctly and appropriately, we have to consider the person who are
speaking, situation, place and cultures. We use informal expressions for average folks, friends
or speaking to close groups. On the other hand, we choose words more carefully to use in a
formal expression or public speaking. Here is an example. When one is going to perform
a first show, the wife says to husband, an informal or colloquial way, as “break a leg”.
However, if she says to a senior co-worker, in a more formal way, would be “wish you have a
good luck” (ibid,8).
Therefore, learning to use idiomatic expressions correctly is important. An idiom
used out of context sounds strange to a native speaker of the language and is not always
understood. The more idioms that a non-native speaker of English can use in the right context
in conversation with native Americans, the more easily to establish a social interaction with
them. So practice reading English texts or listening to native speakers will help you find a
large number of idioms. After a while some idioms will become familiar and you will learn
the places and situations where you hear them. You should then practice the use of the idiom
with a friend, preferably someone who is conversant in colloquial English. Also it is very
useful to find a good dictionary or an idiom book to help you learn and understand idioms.
15 Types of Idiomatic Expressions
There are various types of idiomatic expressions as follow:
1. Traditional idioms
Many of traditional idioms are almost full sentences. For example, give up the ghost,
means to stop trying or to die (Longman Dictionary of English Idioms, 1979, 9). If
you add a subject, it will be a full sentence. But some traditional idioms are not full
sentence, their function rather like parts of speech. An idiomatic noun phrase, for example,
the salt of the earth, it means the best people (ibid).
2. Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Idioms that refer to actions which have a specific meaning or significance may be
misinterpreting for the English new learners. Other idioms with the action referred to never
really happen. It is just the metaphorical way of saying (ibid). For example, “she had fell off
her knees when she met the missing body of her son”. It does not mean that she really do
this action. Actually the meaning is she was very sad (ibid).
3. Pairs of words
Many idioms consist of pairs of words joined by and or or. Their function is like parts of
speech (Longman Dictionary of English Idioms, 1979, 9). For instance, safe and sound in
we all arrived in Bangkok safe and sound. It means we arrived safety.
4. Saying
They are well-known wise statements. These are usually complete sentences. For
example in informal saying, I can not take my eyes off you. It means you can not stop
looking at some one because of his/her attraction (Longman Dictionary of English Idioms,
1979, 10). Another example, Life is no bed of roses. It means there are problems in life.
16 5. Similes and Metaphors
A large number of idioms consist of a comparison in two things that are not alike in most
ways, but are alike in one important way. The words like or as are used in these kinds of
idioms. Similes are used to emphasize a certain characteristic of a thing (Longman Dictionary
of English Idioms, 1979, 10). Here are examples: Simile with as, as pretty as a picture, it
means very pretty; Simile with like, eyes like a hawk, it means that person notice everything.
Metaphors and similes are both ways to compare things. A metaphor is when you say
something is something. A simile is when you say something is like something. Unlike
similes that use the words as or like to make a comparison, metaphors state that
something is something else (ibid, 11). Here is example: Brian was a wall, bouncing every
tennis ball back over the net. This metaphor compares Brian to a wall because he was very
tall.
6. Jargon
Jargon is phrases or words which are used in a particular group of people (Cambridge
Advanced Learner's Dictionary). In other words, jargon is a vocabulary common to a
particular field of work or group of people. It is a technical talk. It may be used as a barrier to
keep outsiders from understanding something.
Every profession, organization and specialized group has some unique vocabulary that
can speed communication between group members. Jargon can be used by people involved
in sports or other casual groups. Most people associate jargon with the medical or law
professions rather than everyday conversations
(http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/JargonBusting.htm). The good aspect of jargon is a
way for groups in society to have their own specific language. The bad is jargon can leave
someone feeling excluded from a conversation (ibid).
17 7. Phrasal verbs
A phrasal verb is a phrase which consists of a verb in combination with a preposition or
adverb or both (Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary). An adverb or a preposition
which is followed by a verbs is called a particle. The particle that follows the verb changes
the meaning of the phrasal verb in idiomatic ways.
Some particles can be separated from the verb so that a noun and pronoun can be
inserted, and some particles can't be separated from the verb. In addition, some phrases
are intransitive, meaning they cannot take a direct object.
(http://www.englishpage.com/prepositions/phrasaldictionary.html). Here are examples:
Transitive phrasal verbs can be separable or inseparable such as add up (meaning: to add);
She added up the total on her calculator or can be she added it up on her calculator.
Intransitive phrasal verbs are always inseparable such as get around (meaning: to evade);
She always gets around the rules.
The point is there is usually no indicator whether an idiomatic phrase is separable,
inseparable, or intransitive. In most cases the phrases must simply be memorized.
HOROSCOPE
Human beings have always curious to know their future and that is why horoscope is
getting more and more popular. Nowadays, horoscope can be gained from astrologers,
magazines, newspapers and even on the internet which most large websites have pages
devoted to horoscope. There have always been people around who have successfully
predicted future events. Their methods have been different; some people can simply look into
the future, some use tarot cards, some drawn up an astrological chart which are called
horoscope, some read the lines in the palms of people. One cannot be deny that future has
been accurately predicted many times and by many people. Many people view horoscope
as mere superstition. Believers call it a science, while non-believers call it nonsense.
18 What is Horoscope?
Horoscope is an astrological forecast of a person’s future. The word horoscope itself
literally means hour-pointer, the moment of birth on the ascendant. It is the belief that the
relative positions of stars and planets have some influence over the lives of humans persist to
this day (what is a horoscope and how is it cast, 10).
The earliest humans looked at the star-filled night sky and knew that the shapes and
patterns of the constantly shifting cosmic panoply display must somehow be important
(ibid).
Horoscope is a prediction of personality traits and future events which is based on the
relationship between the sun, moon and planets positions according to their place of birth,
date of birth, as well as the precise time of birth
(http://science.howstuffworks.com/horoscope.htm). Astrologers believe that these planetary
positions at the time of a person’s birth have a direct influence on that person’s character.
These positions are thought to affect a person’s destiny (ibid). They also believe that all
things in our universe are intimately and deeply connected.
“Astrology is a language. If you understand this language, the sky speaks to you. It
tells you what you were born for and how you can best actualize the potentialities of your
own nature.” says Dane Rudhyar, a composer and astrologer.
(http://www.quotegarden.com/astrology.html).
Steve Forrest, an American actor, said about astrology in these words: “Astrology is just
a finger pointing at reality" (ibid).
According to Varahamihira, an Indian astronomer and astrologer, states that there is
no better boat than a horoscope to help a man cross over the sea of life (ibid).
19 In conclusion, horoscope views that everyone's personality is a unique combination of
influences from the sun, the moon and all the planets of the solar system at the time and
place of our birth.
How Horoscope work? The basic principle of astrology is that the heavenly bodies (the Sun, Moon, and the eight other planets) influence what happens on the earth. Astrologers learn about this
influence by drawing a chart called a horoscope or birth chart. Horoscope illustrates of the
position of the sun, moon, and planets from given latitude and longitude on earth at a given
moment, a birth (what is a horoscope and how is it cast, 22). The construction of the
horoscope is based on the Ptolemaic system, in which the earth is stationary and the heavenly
bodies move around it in fixed patterns (ibid, 23).
The birth chart records the cosmic energies present at the exact moment of your arrival in
this lifetime. As the celestial clock moves forward, the changing sky carries us forward on the
path of our destiny (what is a horoscope and how is it cast, 27 ). The system used by
astrologers to cast a horoscope is based on a special view of the universe. This view involves
four elements: the earth, the planets and the zodiac.
(http://people.howstuffworks.com/horoscope2.htm).
The earth, astrologers place the earth at the center of the solar system. Thus, all heavenly
bodies revolve around the earth rather than the sun. Astrologers use this arrangement so they
can determine the positions of the heavenly bodies in relation to the earth. They believe the
study of these positions can reveal a person's character and future (ibid).
The planets, in astrology, the moon and the sun are considered planets, along with
Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, Pluto, Saturn, Uranus, and Venus. Each planet supposedly
represents a force that is capable of affecting people in a certain way (ibid).
20 A horoscope is illustrated by a circle, called the ecliptic. The ecliptic is the plane
on which the Earth orbits around the Sun in a year. It is divided into twelve parts, each
subdivided into 30 degrees, making 360 degrees in all, called the signs of the Zodiac. These
signs are related to the constellations of the same name
(what is a horoscope and how is it cast, 45). It is include Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo,
Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
The horoscope also is divided into twelve houses, which make up the 24-hour period
during which the Earth rotates once on its axis. Each house deals with certain areas of a
person’s life, such as marriage, health, work, travel, and death. Astrologers make predictions
by interpreting the position of astronomical bodies within the signs and houses of the
horoscope (http://people.howstuffworks.com/horoscope4.htm).
Astrologers assign every planet (which in astrology includes the Sun and Moon) with a
particular sign, depending on where that planet appears on the ecliptic at the time for which
the horoscope is cast. Each planet represents basic human drives, and each sign represents a
set of human characteristics (ibid).
In conclusion, to create a horoscope astrologers have to know the exact time and place
of the subject birth. They also have to learn more about the twelve signs and the planets,
signs and planet influences, symbols, the various blending of the planets and sun and moon,
your rising sign, the 12 houses in your horoscope and planets in aspect.
Horoscope in the Present
Horoscope has a different use than it did in the ancient world. Now a horoscope can be
drawn up for the moment of birth of not just a person, but also a project, an event, a business,
even a country. Besides, horoscope answers many other questions. It is no longer about just
love and money (http://people.howstuffworks.com/birthday-astrology2.htm).
21 CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
MATERIAL
The researcher is going to analyze the idioms that are used in Daily Work Horoscope
section from www.astrology.com of July 1 - 7, 2008. Each day contains a prediction into
12 months.
RESEARCH INSTRUMENTS
The instruments used in this study were the guidelines for idiom analysis in Horoscope
website which were constructed by the researcher are as follow:
1. Methods of idiom usage were studied from the national library, university library,
books, and related websites on internet.
2. Methods of idiom analysis were studied from “A Dictionary of American Idioms”
(Makkai, 1995) and “Cambridge International Dictionary of Idioms”
PROCEDURES
The methodologies that the researcher has used in this study are as follows:
1. The researcher collected 7 days of Daily Work Horoscope section from astrology
website.
2. The researcher selected the idioms and then studied the idioms used in sections that
were cut in which there were idioms.
3. The researcher analyzes the idioms using their meaning in Horoscope section.
4. The researcher analyzes the data.
5. The researcher presents the results by giving its meaning, offering text analysis and
giving more example sentence.
22 6. The researcher states the results discussion.
7. The researcher makes a conclusion and recommendation.
DATA COLLECTION
The obtained data were analyzed as follows:
1. The researcher selected the website for analyzing idioms and taking into consideration
the large number of idioms and simple language used in them.
2. The researcher chose Daily Work Horoscope section from astrology website for
collected idioms.
3. The Horoscope sections will be analyzed by their idioms used, their meaning based on
their content.
4. The results were presented by description.
THE PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED
1. Because idioms are like words; they have several meanings, the researcher has to
examine carefully from the context of what they actually mean.
2. The researcher was confused with many sentences which has metaphorical meaning
like an expression but they did not. Here are examples: On a daily work horoscope of July 5,
2008, ‘You felt safe one minute, and realized you were swimming with sharks the next’. On a
daily work horoscope of July 6, 2008, ‘Work is starting to feel like a marriage’. On a daily
work horoscope of July 7, 2008, ‘Things are taking so long to finish that it seems like a fever
dream’.
23 CHAPTER 4
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
In this chapter, the researcher will show the results of idiom analysis of Daily Work
Horoscope sections in www.astrology.com from July 1 – 7, 2008.
Daily work horoscope: July 1, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
It's just not worth it. Thinking about what others owe you is eating away at your
productivity, not to mention your soul. Letting bygones be bygones will be a big
improvement.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
There are no such things as fixed ideas, today. Sudden changes require creative thinking.
Whether it's working with a new colleague, getting an unfamiliar assignment or moving
desks, be open to change.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
Overcoming the details is not easy, but getting upset won't help things. Keeping a stiff upper
lip is the best way to make sure your emotionality doesn't get in the way of what needs to be
done.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
You can control your actions but you can't control your intuition. It's on high alert, set to
sensitive. So when you start to hear that ominous beeping, do what you can to maintain
goodwill.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
You won't just accept things as they're presented to you. Something is not as it seems, but you
won't be able to put your finger on it. When your curiosity is piqued, delve deep.
24 VIRGO
(August 23- September 22)
It's a good situation: Getting things done is your forte today, and your high energy earns you
plenty of attention from others. But don't let them distract you from the tasks still at hand.
LIBRA
(September 23- October 22)
Meetings can be dull, but use whatever method works to stay focused. Otherwise you could
make a big splash, and not in the deep and meaningful way you've always daydreamed of.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
If you've been trying to push an idea, today is your day. A normally oppositional boss is in a
rare good mood. That means working together is not such a far-fetched idea, if only
temporarily.
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
Being a good listener is very different from eavesdropping. One is an asset and the other is a
liability. If it's impossible not to hear over the cubicle wall, then at least zip your lips.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
Your intentions are good, and so are your motivations, but you just won't get anywhere
without connections. Don't try to forge any new ones, because the ones you have are in need
of maintenance.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
You'll be feeling like a kid in a candy store, and the candy store is your cubicle. Who says
work is the wrong place for fun and games? Getting a lot done is more than just satisfying,
today.
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
Being loyal and dependable doesn't always pay off, but it should. Whichever side of the
equation you're on, being practical about the matter is the only way to happiness.
Idioms Analysis
1.
Thinking about what others owe you is eating away at your productivity
Idiom - eat away at something
25 Meaning: To reduce something by little at a time.
Explanation:
This sentence means your productivity will decrease if you keep thinking about
those who owe you. This idiom is used when speaking about something that slowly but surely
causes damage.
The meaning of this idiom is not involved anything with the verb “eat”.
The synonyms are to bring down, to decrease; for example.
Types of Idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: These bank fees eat away at my savings every month.
2.
Letting bygones be bygones will be a big improvement.
Idiom - Let bygones be bygones
Meaning: To forget about unpleasant things that has happened in the past.
Explanation:
This idiom is slightly formal.
A "bygone" is something which has already happened; the time when it happened has
"gone by". This idiom is commonly told to people who worry about the past, especially past
grievances. In other words, do not let the past taint the present.
This idiom is also used in business as to forget about the disagreement; to people who
have had a disagreement in the past and want to move forward leaving their disagreement in
the past, become reconciled.
This idiom is similar to “forgive and forget”.
Types of Idiom: Saying
Example sentence: Bill and Tom shook hands and agreed to let bygones be bygones.
26 3.
Keeping a stiff upper lip is the best way to make sure your emotionality doesn't get
in the way of what needs to be done.
Idiom - a stiff upper lip
Meaning:
¾ Remain resolute and unemotional in the face of adversity, or even tragedy.
¾ To suppress the display of any emotion.
Explanation:
The phrase is most commonly heard as part of the idiom ‘keep a stiff upper lip’.
Keeping a stiff upper lip can be hard to do and that is why it was become an expression.
When someone gets upset, his or her lips might tremble. If you keep your emotions to
yourself and do not let others know how you feel when something bad happens, you keep a
stiff upper lip.
"Keep your chin up" has a similar meaning.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: He was much worried about his sick daughter, but he kept a stiff
upper lip.
4.
Something is not as it seems, but you won't be able to put your finger on it.
Idiom - Put (one’s) finger on (something or someone)
Meaning:
¾ To discover the exact reason why a situation is the way it is, especially when
something is wrong.
¾ To inform against or identify exactly (a criminal) to the authorities.
Explanation:
This idiom is very informal. It does not mean to touch something with the fingers or it
27 is not an action. It means you know exactly what is wrong, different, or unusual about a
person or situation but you can not do anything. It is used when referring to difficulty and
impossible things.
This idiom is normally seen in negative contexts.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: There's something wrong with his story, but I can't put my finger on
what it is.
5.
If it's impossible not to hear over the cubicle wall, then at least zip your lips.
Idiom - Zip one’s lips
Meaning: To give your word not to tell what you just heard, keep something in confidential.
Explanation:
This is a relatively new idiom of the 20th century. The act of zipping something is
compared to sealing something, and keeping it from others. This idiom is very informal. The
meaning is not fastening your lip with a zip.
This idiom is not difficult for you to guess its meaning because zip your lip is literally
means the act of closing the mouth.
If someone tells you to zip your lip, they want you to shut up or keep quiet about
something that is a secret.
“Zip it” or “Zip your mouth” is also used.
Types of idioms: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: Somehow she can't manage to zip her lips.
28 6.
You'll be feeling like a kid in a candy store.
Idiom - be like a kid in a candy store
Meaning: A state of utter fascination, with many good or tempting things all around you. Explanation:
Kids love candy so this idiom compares the feeling of happiness, joy and excitement
of kids when they are in a candy shop.
If someone is like a kid in a candy store, they are very happy and excited about the
things around them and often react in a way which is not controlled.
As pleased as a kid with a new toy is also has a similar meaning.
Types of idiom: Simile
Example sentence: You should have seen him when they arrived. He was like a kid in a
candy store.
7.
Being loyal and dependable doesn't always pay off, but it should.
Idiom - Pay off
Meaning: To result in success
Explanation:
This idiom is in business field. It is not an act that you pay or spend money on things
but it means you get a good result for what you have done the best and tried hard.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: His efforts finally paid off.
29 Daily work horoscope: July 2, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
Being passionate has its drawbacks. If you approach everything with intensity, start thinking
about a lighter touch. In other words, be gentle, today do not be like a bull in a china shop.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
When someone hurts your feelings, your first instinct is to retreat and dig in. But being
willful won't help this situation. Putting your emotions aside is better for your mental
health.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
Some people want personal service but others expect you to cut to the chase. Keep the
chatting to a minimum today, because you'll be inundated with the latter.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
Keep your opinions to yourself. Your boss won't like it if you inflict them on others, even if
you're an expert. Make that especially if you're an expert.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
'They Who Hesitate Are Lost' isn't always the best motto to go by. Some indecision is good
for you, today. You'll discover powerful reasons not to sign once you waver, so indulge your
insecurities.
VIRGO
(August 23- September 22)
Your boss may think they know best, but when it comes to your own conscience, don't let
anybody else be in charge. Some decisions will stay with you long after you forget about the
job. Do the right thing, today.
LIBRA
(September 23- October 22)
Analyzing invisible data is impossible. So is understanding your colleagues based on
intuition alone. Communicate, today. Just because it's daunting doesn't mean it's impossible.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
Seeing eye-to-eye may feel like an unrealistic goal. But not only is it obtainable, it's
necessary. You may not believe those with differing views but it's your job to at least listen.
30 SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
When money changes hands, people start feeling greedy. It's not a free-for-all, though, so
don't start grabbing anything in reach. Follow the rules and earn the old fashioned way.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
Some bosses are like old relatives, and that is meant in a good way and a bad way. They have
plenty to teach you, they care, but they can also bore you to tears. Endure, today.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
It's time to admit you're a workaholic. It's your duty to come to work refreshed, rested and
ready to go. So get some relaxation in your schedule, even if you have to force yourself.
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
Feeling good at work shouldn't come as a surprise. But if they do, enjoy the unexpected
happiness. Then explore ways to make it a more frequent occurrence.
Idioms Analysis
1.
In other words, be gentle; today do not be like a bull in a china shop.
Idiom - be like a bull in a china shop
Meaning:
¾ An awkward or clumsy person.
¾ An inconsiderate or tactless person.
Explanation:
A bull in the china shop compares to a rough or clumsy person who says or does
something to anger others or upset plans.
This idiom is used when talking about a person who is rather insensitive, dealing too
roughly with a delicate problem
Types of Idiom: Simile
Example sentence: He was like a bull in a china shop with our new clients.
31 2.
Putting your emotions aside is better for your mental health.
Idiom - Put aside (something)
Meaning: To decide not to deal with something.
Explanation:
This sentence means you should not care or think about the situation or the past that
made you upset or nervous.
This idiom is similar to “set aside”.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: Let's put aside our differences and enjoy the evening.
3.
Some people want personal service but others expect you to cut to the chase.
Idiom - cut to the chase
Meaning:
¾ To say what is important without delay.
¾ To get to the point by leave out all the unnecessary details
Explanation:
If you cut to the chase, you immediately start dealing with the important part of
something without delay by leaving out unnecessary preamble.
This idiom comes from the movies. If you cut to the chase, you go to the
exciting part of the film by ignore the boring conversational scenes. As you know, the film is
often climaxed in chase scenes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cut_to_the_chase).
Types of Idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: We don't have time to go into that, so let's cut to the chase.
32 4.
'They Who Hesitate Are Lost' isn't always the best motto to go by.
Idiom - ‘They Who Hesitate Are Lost’ or ‘He who hesitates is lost’
Meaning: a person who doesn't act decisively is unlikely to succeed
Explanation:
Hesitation is the act of pausing due to indecision or uncertainty, in either speech or
action.
According to a proverb, this is generally taken to be a caution to avoid hesitation,
because it may cause an opportunity to be lost entirely.
In this sentence ‘go by’ (Phrasal verb) means ‘to obey’ or ‘to follow’, so in the
sentence “They Who Hesitate Are Lost isn't always the best motto to go by” mean
sometimes acting in undeterminably way has a good benefit.
Types of Idiom: Proverb
5.
Seeing eye-to-eye may feel like an unrealistic goal.
Idiom - see eye to eye
Meaning: To be in agreement; to have exactly the same opinion
Explanation:
It is a business idiom. If two people see eye to eye, they agree with each other.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentences:
-
My father and I see eye to eye on most things. -
They have never been able to see eye to eye on politics.
33 6.
When money changes hands, people start feeling greedy.
Idiom - change hands
Meaning: To change or transfer ownership
Explanation:
It is an informal expression. This expression means something is moved from one
owner to another.
This idiom “change hands” especially used with money and property.
Types of Idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: The hotel has changed hands twice since 1982.
7.
It's not a free-for-all, though, so don't start grabbing anything in reach.
Idiom - a free for all
Meaning: a disorganized brawl or argument involving all those present
Explanation:
This expression is informal. It is used when saying that some gathering was out of
control and where everyone does what they want or fights for what they want to get.
In this context, it means when money was transferred to another, other people will
arguing and claiming due to they want to get involve with it. However, the horoscope
said you should not do that because the situation is organized and controlled.
Example sentence: The organizers planned poorly and the show was a free-for-all.
34 8.
They (some bosses) have plenty to teach you, they care, but they can also bore you to
tears.
Idiom - bore (someone) to tears
Meaning: To be very bored
Explanation:
It is an informal expression. If someone or something bores you to tears, they bore
you very much indeed.
This idiom used when someone feel weary and uninterested by tedious talk or
dull action.
“Bore you to death” has a similar meaning.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: The speeches went on for an hour. I was bored to death.
35 Daily work horoscope: July 3, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
It's the rare contest that gets the best of you, but this one has you on the ropes. The outcome
may not be up to you, this time, but consider it a fight to the finish.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
Don't waste time on the subconscious. Your active imagination is not providing the most
reliable picture. Figure out what's real, today, if you want to understand the big picture and
your place in it.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
You don't have to be particularly creative to stand out. You'll impress strangers simply by
being polite. You'll be meeting lots of people, so brush up on your manners.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
When you're not picking up any signals, it's hard to decide which way to go. Never ignore
you emotions, but when you have none, do pay attention to your intellect.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
If you've been moving full speed ahead, it's only natural to start slowing down. Don't burn
the candle at both ends. Use this time to rest and prepare for your next surge forward.
VIRGO
(August 23- September 22)
There's just no talking to some people. Don't waste your time trying to have a deep and
meaningful discussion with someone who is only interested in gossip. Save your best ideas
for someone else.
LIBRA
(September 23- October 22)
A coworker is communicating, but you're just not getting it. Pay attention, today. Once you
learn their secret code you'll see they're being quite expressive.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
You may be getting frustrated with the way things are progressing (or not progressing), but
stick to your approach. Trying something new will only mean starting from scratch. What
you're doing will bring you results, if you persevere.
36 SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
Your boss may take on a parental role but that doesn't mean you should act like a teenager.
You need an emotional outlet, today, so make sure you choose a mature, professional one.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
Problems with coworkers loom but you can nip them in the bud. Share office resources and
be as polite as possible. That should keep people from feeling combative.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
The last thing you want to do is waiting. But don't take independent action without asking for
permission. You need the goodwill of coworkers for future projects together.
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
Things aren't progressing. How could they be with your routine constantly disrupted? Some
things are out of your control, but do what you can to keep your head down and work.
Idiom Analysis
1.
It's the rare contest that gets the best of you, but this one has you on the ropes.
Idiom - on the ropes
Meaning: ¾ in a desperate or hopeless position; close to defeat or failure
¾ near collapse or ruin
Explanation:
When something or someone is on the ropes, it or they are doing badly and likely to
fail. It is not hard to guess the meaning of this phrase because in the reality, if someone or
something is on the ropes, have high potential they or it will fall.
This phrase is slang. This phrase derived from sport (boxing) which has become
idiom in English. It refers to a boxer who has been knocked against the ropes that enclose the
boxing ring and kept there by the blows of his opponent.
37 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sports_idioms).
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: His political career is on the ropes.
2.
You don't have to be particularly creative to stand out.
Idiom - stand out
Meaning: To be conspicuous, distinctive, or prominent. Explanation:
It is a phrasal verb and should be conjugated, can not separate. It doesn’t mean you
stand outside but this sentence means you don’t have to show your creativity for to be easily
seen or noticed.
If someone or something stands out, they are very noticeable because they look
different or behave differently from other people or things
Types of Idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: If you make your company stand out, you will definitely get more
business.
3.
You'll be meeting lots of people, so brush up on your manners.
Idiom - brush up on
Meaning: bring to a highly developed or refined state
Explanation:
This idiom could be translate into 2 parts as brush up and brush up on (something)
which are different in their meaning.
brush up means clean, refurbish, as in ‘we plan to get the house brushed up in time
for the party’.
brush up on something means to review something one has already learned, as in
‘Nelly brushed up on her Spanish before going to Honduras’. It is often used when talking
38 about preparing for an exam or a situation in which you will need to use knowledge
previously acquired.
In this sentence means because of you’ll meet lots of people so you have to refresh
your skills and your knowledge or renovate your manners.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: I`m going to brush up on my English before my trip to London.
4.
Don't burn the candle at both ends.
Idiom - burn the candle at both ends
Meaning: To work or play too hard without sleep, to work extremely or excessively hard
Explanation:
This idiom usually used when talking about extreme efforts. It is an expression
meaning get little sleep due to being busy from early in the morning till late at night.
You are burning the candle at both ends when you are working for many hours without
getting enough rest or doing things which are likely to affect their health badly. On the other
word, you exhaust yourself by overworking or doing too much of one (or more than one)
activity.
The both ends then weren’t the ends of the day but were a literal reference to both
ends of a candle. A candle can actually be lighted at both ends and there are old candle
holders made to allow the practice. It gives twice the light for half the time. Thus the candle
burns out rapidly, and serves as an illustration both of wastefulness and exhaustion
(http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/burning-the-candle-at-both-ends.html).
Types of Idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: He's been burning the candle at both ends to finish this project.
39 5.
Trying something new will only mean starting from scratch.
Idiom - from scratch
Meaning: From the very beginning, from the outset; from nothing.
Explanation:
It often used in the form start from scratch. This is a phrase which means from the
beginning or zero. This expression is derived from the line scratched or drawn in the ground
that people used as the starting line of a race (http://www.answers.com/from%20scratch).
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: I knew we'd have a problem from scratch.
6.
Problems with coworkers loom but you can nip them in the bud.
Idiom - nip (something) in the bud
Meaning:
¾ To stop (something) in the beginning of its development or at an early stage.
¾ To prevent a small problem from getting worse by stopping it soon after it starts.
Explanation:
This phrase clearly derives by allusion to the de-budding of plants. Literal meaning is
to remove a bud from a plant to prevent flower and fruit from forming. Idiomatic meaning is
to take action to prevent something (the problem, trouble or any bad situation) at the start;
block or destroy in the beginning. If you nip something in the bud, you deal with a problem
when it is still small, before it can grow into something serious.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: By arresting all the leaders, they nipped the rebellion in the bud.
40 7.
Some things are out of your control.
Idiom - out of control
Meaning: Unable to be managed or limited.
Explanation:
Because this idiom is means literally, you get the meaning easily by knowing the
word ‘out of’ and ‘control’ mean. The word ‘out of’ means ‘no longer having’.
This sentence means some things aren’t under your control. You can’t manage it. This
phrase is similar to ‘out of hand’.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: The weeds in the garden are out of control.
8.
Do what you can to keep your head down and work.
Idiom - Keep one’s head down
Meaning: To do or say as little as possible in order to avoid problems or arguments.
Explanation:
In this sentence, you keep you head down at work; you do your work quietly
without causing any problems and causing other people to notice you. In the other word, you
stay calm in times of difficulty to avoid problems or arguments.
Beside, this idiom is mentioning an act of keep head down as a person who acts
modestly.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: I think a lot of people keep their head down when they start a new job.
41 Daily work horoscope: July 4, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
Be realistic, of course, but don't let that stop you from being idealistic. That innocent glow
will combine nicely with some discipline and structure to help you succeed.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
If you're constantly organizing and reorganizing your stuff, it's time to take on more
significant challenges. Tell your boss you're open to trying something new. Consider it an
experiment.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
You're not the only one with a hair-trigger temper, today. Emotions are easily aroused, so
make sure you not only mean what you say but that you say it diplomatically.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
Tensions in the office are high. Want to break the ice? Don't play it safe when you can be
daring, instead. Others will appreciate you taking the risk to make things better for everyone.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
Something has to give. If you've been focusing too much on romance or fun, things could be
reaching a critical state. Make hard work your first priority, at least while on the job.
VIRGO
(August 23- September 22)
If you've been trying to push an idea, today is your day. A normally oppositional boss is in a
rare good mood. That means working together is not such a far-fetched idea, if only
temporarily.
LIBRA
(September 23- October 22)
You can be friends with people who are similar to you, but when it comes to the office, you
have to get along with everybody. Try to see what you have in common. That you both must
contribute to work is only the most obvious thing.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
Thinking things over is wise but don't go overboard. When the details just swirl and swirl
around your head, it's time to call it a day. You'll get clarity of thought tomorrow.
42 SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
Your group is expanding, and there's no fighting it. A new member will soon feel as
comfortable and familiar as your present coworkers, so be the first to establish connections
and make them welcome.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
Don't throw the baby out with the bath water. You and a coworker can still be productive,
even if you don't come from the same angle. Just how far you go together is up to you, so
take the first step.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
Ah, it's a good day! Something delightful is dropping in your lap. It's the kind of success you
can't really plan for. But while it lasts, enjoy your windfall.
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
Don't be a blabbermouth. It's hard not to interrupt, especially when you have differing
opinions, but that's what social custom dictates. If it's your boss, it's especially important to
hold your tongue.
Idioms Analysis
1.
It's time to take on more significant challenges.
Idiom - take on
Meaning: There are two different meaning of this phrase.
¾ ‘Take on someone’ means to fight or compete against someone or to employ
someone.
¾ ‘Take on something’ means to begin to have something; to fight against something; to
accept something.
43 Explanation:
This phrase is used the simple word but we are still not clear about its meaning
because the word ‘take’ has several meanings.
In this context, ‘take on’ means to undertake or begin to handle on new task.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
2.
Tensions in the office are high. Want to break the ice?
Idiom - break the ice
Meaning:
¾ To make people who have not met before feel more relaxed with each other by doing
something friendly in order to overcome shyness.
¾ To get through the first difficulties in starting a conversation or discussion.
Explanation:
When you break the ice, you get over any initial embarrassment or shyness when you
meet someone for the first time and start conversing. In the other word, you begin a difficult
conversation on a relaxed note.
This context means you want to do something friendly in order to ease tension in a
social situation.
This idiom usually used when talking about job interviews or other uncomfortable
situations which cause people to be nervous.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: Before the conference began, the speaker broke the ice with a joke.
44 3.
Don't play it safe when you can be daring, instead.
Idiom - play it safe
Meaning: To take a cautious; avoid any risks.
Explanation:
This idiom means to be careful or to do something safely. So ‘don’t play it safe’ will
have the opposite meaning, that is taking the risk.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: Deciding to play it safe, he joined his father's accounting firm rather than
pursue an acting career.
4.
It's time to call it a day.
Idiom - call it a day
Meaning: ¾ To stop doing something, especially working.
¾ To cease the activity for the day; to stop a particular activity for the rest of the day.
Explanation:
It is an informal idiom. If you call it a day, you stop doing something for a while,
normally at least until the following day. This idiom often used when quitting an activity that
you have been doing for quite a while.
Similarly, ‘call it a night’ means ‘to stop something for the rest of the night’.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: We have been at this for hours; let's call it a day and come back
tomorrow when we are fresh.
45 5.
Don't throw the baby out with the bath water.
Idiom - Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.
Meaning:
¾ To reject all of something because part is faulty.
¾ To discard something valuable, in the process of removing waste / Discard something
valuable along with something not wanted.
Explanation:
The proverb “throw the baby out with the bathwater” appears to be German in origin,
and it essentially means that the good should not be discarded along with the bad due to
inattention or haste. It used as a metaphor to suggest that people should not race to hasty
decisions, not that parents would actually throw the baby out with the bathwater.
Throwing the baby out with the bath water is an expression that suggests one doesn’t
need to reject an entire idea, concept or practice if only part of it is good. The baby, in this
sense, represents the good part. The bath water, on the other hand, is usually dirty after the
baby is washed and needs to be discarded.
This slang term references the idea that hasty decisions can sometimes result in
disastrous consequences. Sometimes, it is necessary to take a break to find the good and the
bad in a situation before making a choice about what to do; in other words, take the baby out
of the tub so that you don't throw the baby out with the bathwater.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: They cancelled the entire project because the new management didn't
like the prototype, but I think they threw the baby out with the bathwater.
46 6.
Don't be a blabbermouth.
Idiom - a blabbermouth
Meaning: One who talks indiscreetly or incessantly.
Explanation:
This slang expression refers to a very talkative person, especially one who says things
that should be kept secret. If one’s have a blabbermouth, they given to gossiping and
divulging personal information about others.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: "Don't say anything to Bob unless you want the whole office to know.
Bob's quite a blabbermouth."
7.
It's especially important to hold your tongue.
Idiom - hold one’s tongue
Meaning: To say nothing or to stop speaking; to refrain from speaking
Explanation:
This expression used to warn someone to stop talking or to be quiet or silent, usually
used by someone in a superior position to a junior. It is not something to be used casually
and can be offensive in nature.
If you hold your tongue, you keep silent even though you want to speak.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: He decided to hold his tongue rather than give his honest opinion
47 Daily work horoscope: July 5, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
You may think it's a good time to implement way-out things, but you're only partly right.
Once you let the cat out of the bag, you may find more pet lovers around you than you
realize.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
You're easily awed. Someone really different may appear, but don't be taken in. On the
inside, they're just the same as everyone else in the office.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
You're aloof while those you work with are emotional, or vice versa. These differences are
what make working with others so trying, and also so satisfying. Learn to be flexible.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
Associates can come in handy when you're not sure which way to go. Don't just look
forward; look left and right. Don't bother the boss when the solution lies just over the cubicle
wall.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
Don't react, respond. Just because others fly off the handle doesn't mean you have to. You
can put out the fire more effectively by avoiding reacting emotionally.
VIRGO
(August 23-September 22)
It's the wrong time to make any long-term changes. Things are too blurry for that. If you can't
wait until things are clearer, then simply daydream about the future instead of affecting it.
LIBRA
(September 23-October 22)
Your regular way of doing things is too loose. Things are falling through the cracks.
Staying prepared may seem daunting but you'll find ways of organizing your stuff.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
You felt safe one minute, and realized you were swimming with sharks the next. It’s
unsettling, but at least it’s not wishy-washy. Now that you know where you stand, be extra
careful in any business deals.
48 SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
Bring the romance back to work. It's not as hard as it seems, no matter how much of a grind it
has become. Use your imagination and you'll find plenty of ways to reignite the flame.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
You're connecting the dots, and what a picture they reveal! You finally understand someone
important in your career. Now that you do, see if you can relate what you've learned to other
colleagues.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
Sitting at a desk isn't heroic enough to satisfy you. Want to help lots of people? Don't just
dream about it. If you get coworkers to join in with you, making a charitable difference is not
unrealistic
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
If judging people's work is part of your job, do it gently. Your colleagues are hanging on you
every word. You don't have to be too critical of others to get the message across.
Idioms Analysis
1.
Once you let the cat out of the bag, you may find more pet lovers around you than
you realize.
Idiom - let the cat out of the bag
Meaning: To tell something that is a secret, often without intending to.
Explanation:
This expression is often used when the real truth has been revealed. If you
accidentally reveal a secret, you let the cat out of the bag. A secret is like a cat that has been
kept a bag. Once you let the cat out of the bag, it goes wherever it wants.
This idiom possibly related to the fact that in England in the Middle Ages, piglets
49 were usually sold in bags at markets. This expression alludes to the dishonest practice of a
merchant substituting a worthless cat for a valuable pig, which is discovered only when the
buyer gets home and opens the bag (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/let-the-cat-out-ofthe-bag.htm).
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings
Example sentence: Mom let the cat out of the bag and told us Karen was engaged.
2.
Associates can come in handy when you're not sure which way to go.
Idiom - come in handy
Meaning: Be useful for a certain purpose; prove useful
Explanation:
Obviously, this expression can make you confuse with its literal meaning as
‘convenient’.
However, to say that something may come in handy means that it may be useful
sometime or other. It used casually when someone comments that something unexpected
could prove useful.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: "Don't throw away those old shelves; they may come in handy."
3.
Don't react, respond. Just because others fly off the handle doesn't mean you have to.
Idiom - fly off the handle
Meaning: To become very angry
Explanation:
This expression is informal. If someone flies off the handle, they react in a very angry
way to something someone says or does.
50 This metaphoric expression alludes to the loosened head of a hammer flying off after
a blow (http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/fly-off-the-handle.html).
This idiom is similar to ‘lose one’s temper’.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings.
Example sentence: He flew off the handle and fired everyone in the office
4.
Things are falling through the cracks.
Idiom - fall/slip through the cracks
Meaning: Be neglected or overlooked; to pass unnoticed or unchecked
Explanation:
It is an informal proverb. This sentence doesn’t mean things are falling but it
means this day you have done things carelessly You have to manage and organize it.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings.
Example sentence: Check inside each file carefully to make sure nothing slips through the
cracks.
5.
You're connecting the dots.
Idiom - connect the dots
Meaning: to understand the relationship between different ideas or experiences
Explanation:
This expression alludes to the dots which are connected to the relationship or
experience that you get along well with. When you connect the dots, you understand the
connections and relationships.
51 Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: It took years of hard work to connect the dots between the murder and
the suspect.
6.
You don't have to be too critical of others to get the message across.
Idiom - get across
Meaning: To successfully communicate something
Explanation:
This phrasal verb (get across) could be translated in to 2 parts which are different in
their meaning.
Meaning#1 is ‘To communicate successfully’ as in “As a coach, I have to get across
to the players what I want from them”. In this meaning, phrase can be separated.
Meaning#2 is ‘Go from one side to the other’ as in “It's impossible to get across the
road with all this traffic”. In this meaning, phrase can not be separated.
In the sentence above the meaning is you don't have to be too critical of others to
make them understand or become clear.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
52 Daily work horoscope: July 6, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
Your ideals are not set in stone as you might think. You could be influenced by just about
anyone today, so make sure you're listening to someone who can lead you in the right
direction.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
Sometimes being radical is the right approach, and other times being outrageous just rubs
people the wrong way. Deciding which way to be is what makes your job not a science but an
art.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
Once burned, twice shy doesn't seem to apply to you. Don't be tempted. Taking a risk won't
pay off this time, either, so avoid a gamble and play it safe instead.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
You think boredom is your enemy, but hopping from project to project is the real problem.
Don't do anything new, for a while. You'll grow to love the in-depth experience.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
No one can be successful alone. Use your intellect to understand coworkers. Think for a
moment about what motivates them, and then set that in motion.
VIRGO
(August 23-September 22)
It's not what you know, it's who you know, and you don't know enough. There's no
opportunity like the present to meet new people, so spend the day pressing the flesh.
LIBRA
(September 23-October 22)
Don't be possessive. In fact, give yourself a challenge. Whether it's letting someone else eat
all the doughnuts or giving someone credit for work you know you did, see how far you can
stretch.
53 SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
In these tight times, everyone has their mind on their possessions. But don't let the general
stress levels become intolerable. Make your office one place where no one discusses private
budgets.
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
Work is starting to feel like a marriage. That has its good and bad sides. Jealously is ugly in
both arenas, so keep it to a minimum where coworkers are concerned.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
Hunkering down has served its purpose, and now it’s time to get back out there. You’ll be
experiencing a rebirth, with all the regeneration that goes with it. That should boost your
confidence, today.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
Personal days are just as important to productivity as work days. Make sure others know your
plans are firm. If you can't put your foot down, avoid answering the phone altogether.
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
When everyone and everything in the office seems to be in flux, getting things done can be
more confusing than ever. Don't start any new projects while things are still up in the air.
Idioms Analysis
1.
Your ideals are not set in stone as you might think.
Idiom - set in stone
Meaning: Firmly established and very difficult to change
Explanation:
This idiom is easy to guess the meaning due to its meaning literally. It is metaphorical
of something which is permanent; certain or firm to a stone.
If something is set in stone, it is permanent and it cannot be changed or altered.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
54 Example sentence: The decision won't be set in stone until we release the documents.
2.
Once burned, twice shy doesn't seem to apply to you.
Idiom - Once burn, twice shy or once bitten, twice shy
Meaning: a person who has suffered from doing something has learned to avoid doing it
again.
Explanation:
"Once Bitten Twice Shy" is an expression meaning that one bad experience will teach
you to be more cautious in future.
‘Shy’ here means afraid.
Types of idiom: Saying
3.
Think for a moment about what motivates them, and then set that in motion.
Idiom - set (something) in motion
Meaning: To start a process
Explanation:
It is in business idiom categories. This idiom was preceded by ‘put in motion’.
It is also used as ‘set the wheels in motion’. When you set the wheels in motion, you get
something started.
‘Get going’ also has the same meaning.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: A press conference set the new project in motion.
55 4.
There's no opportunity like the present to meet new people, so spend the day pressing
the flesh.
Idiom - press the flesh
Meaning:
¾ To meet and talk with people
¾ To shake hands and socialize.
Explanation:
This is an American humorous slang. This idiom is not an act of press the flesh, but it
is an act that you shake hands and mingle with many people, especially while campaigning
for public office or in a political gathering.
This phrase is especially used with politicians who shake their hands with strangers
and keeping an artificial smile all the way, in order to become more popular and to
get support.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings.
Example sentence: The politician spent most of the weekend pressing the flesh in the
shopping mall.
5.
Hunkering down has served its purpose.
Idiom - Hunker down
Meaning:
These are the meanings of “hunker” as follows:
1. To squat close to the ground; crouch. Usually used with down as in ‘hunkered down to
avoid the icy wind’.
2. To take shelter, settle in, or hide out. Usually used with down as in ‘During the sandstorm,
they hunkered down in a small hut’.
3. Settle in a place, to stay in a place or situation. Usually used with down as in ‘The troops
56 hunkered down in the building’.
4. “Hunkering down” is in a financial term. It used to describe a trader
selling off a large position in a stock.
Explanation:
In this sentence means you hold resolutely or stubbornly to a policy or opinion when
confronted by criticism, opposition, or unfavorable circumstances.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
6.
Now it’s time to get back out there.
Idiom - back out
Meaning:
¾ To refuse to do something that you had agreed to do.
¾ Make a retreat from an earlier commitment or activity.
Explanation:
In the sentence ‘it’s time to get back out there’ means you withdraw from a situation,
or break an agreement or engagement.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: Finally he backed out of the agreement.
7.
If you can't put your foot down, avoid answering the phone altogether.
Idiom - put one’s foot down
Meaning:
¾ To decide something and express your decision.
¾ To say very strongly that something must be done in a certain way.
57 Explanation:
This idiom has 2 different meaning:
1. To make a car go faster; to increase your speed when you are driving. If someone
puts their foot down when they are driving, they drive as fast as they can.
For example, ‘I asked the driver to put his foot down’.
2. If someone puts their foot down, they use their authority in order to stop something
happening as in ‘He had planned to go skiing on his own in March but his wife had decided
to put her foot down’.
This idiom is not an act that you put your foot down on the ground but it means you
take a decision stand.
When someone puts their foot down, they make a firm stand and establish their
authority on an issue.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings.
8.
Don't start any new projects while things are still up in the air.
Idiom - up in the air
Meaning: uncertain; undecided; not settled
Explanation:
This metaphoric expression likens something floating in the air to an unsettled matter.
If a matter, a plan or a decision is up in the air, no decision has been made and there is
uncertainty about it.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings.
Example sentence: Our trip to Russia is up in the air. We aren't sure we'll get our visas in
time.
58 Daily work horoscope: July 7, 2008
ARIES
(March 21-April 19)
You've been loyal and dependable for long enough to deserve a little break. Indulge yourself,
within reason. After a bit of enjoyment and entertainment, you'll be good to go again.
TAURUS
(April 20-May 20)
Reading the fine print finally pays off when a minor detail is uncovered. Whether it's a
diamond in the rough or a deal breaker depends on the strength of your prescription.
GEMINI
(May 21-June 21)
Everyone in the office is feeling glum and morose. Things are taking so long to finish that it
seems like a fever dream. Don't worry, something will snap you all awake soon enough.
CANCER
(June 22-July 22)
Spending time with someone has you inspired. Can you be as organized, energized and
dedicated as they are? Challenge yourself, and then watch the results.
LEO
(July 23-August 22)
A family gathering is taking your mind off of work. Don't let it. Let friends and relatives do
the organizing for you, so you can focus on the tasks at hand.
VIRGO
(August 23-September 22)
Something has to give. If you've been focusing too much on romance or fun, things could be
reaching a critical state. Make hard work your first priority, at least while on the job.
LIBRA
(September 23-October 22)
Separate the wheat from the chaff. In your own home, you can keep as much sentimental
junk as you like. But at work, your taste does not prevail. It's time to purge: Empty files,
drawers and desktops.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
You want to follow your mood but you just can't. Someone needs to be flexible and it will
have to be you. You'll find you can accommodate even the most unlikely colleague, no matter
how different your energies are.
59 SAGITTARIUS
(November 22-December 21)
It was touch-and-go, but now you’re out of the woods. Discipline and doing your duty are
bring you what you deserve. It’s time to slack off and allow yourself some fun.
CAPRICORN
(December 22-January 19)
Don't be fooled by ulterior motives. Taking the advice of friends is one thing, but
acquaintances? If you don't ask for it, don't heed it.
AQUARIUS
(January 20-February 18)
When you say you have hidden talents, you're not exaggerating. Just how you get things done
is a mystery to everyone, even you. Let your magic do its work.
PISCES
(February 19-March 20)
Change is on the horizon, and it's time for deep thought. Some things in life are controlled
by your unconscious. Don't let you career be one of them.
Idioms Analysis
1.
Reading the fine print finally pays off when a minor detail is uncovered.
Idiom - Read the fine print
Meaning: To know all the information contained in a document.
Explanation:
This idiomatic is in legal and law categories. When you read the fine print, you read it
all over and you know the details, restrictions, terms, or conditions. Fine print especially use
of a contract, it often printed in very small type.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: You should always read the fine print before signing a contract.
60 2.
Whether it's a diamond in the rough or a deal breaker depends on the strength of your
prescription.
Idiom - diamond in the rough
Meaning: someone or something whose good qualities are hidden.
Explanation:
The phrase is clearly a metaphor for the original unpolished state of diamond
gemstones, especially those that have the potential to become high quality jewels. In other
word, It refers to the fact that diamonds found in nature are rough and uneven. They must be
cut and polished to bring out their true beauty. It is more commonly expressed in the form
'rough diamond'.
A diamond in the rough is someone (or something) that has hidden exceptional
characteristics by a harsh or unremarkable surface appearance or someone (or something) that
has great potential, but isn't not refined and polished.
Types of idiom: Metaphor
Example sentence: This film is one of those diamonds in the rough.
3.
A family gathering is taking your mind off of work.
Idiom - take one’s mind off someone/something
Meaning: to stop from worrying or thinking about a problem
Explanation:
If an activity takes someone's mind off their problems, it stops them from thinking
about them.
In this context means a family gathering is cause you to stop thinking about work.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: I went to a movie to take my mind off my problems at work.
61 4.
Separate the wheat from the chaff
Idiom - Separate the wheat from the chaff
Meaning: Sort the valuable from the worthless
Explanation:
This idiom has literal meaning. This idiom alludes to the ancient practice of
winnowing grain.
When you separate the wheat from the chaff, you select what is useful or valuable and
reject what is useless or worthless.
Types of idiom: Idioms in which actions stand for emotions or feelings.
Example sentence: I hope we'll get a preview of the auction so we can separate the wheat
from the chaff.
5.
It was touch-and-go.
Idiom - be touch-and-go
Meaning: uncertain outcome; precarious
Explanation:
If something is touch and go, the result is uncertain and could be good or bad. A touch
and go situation is one where the outcome is potentially dangerous, perhaps even disastrous.
The expression is another with a nautical background. In the days of sail often the
only way to transfer goods, or even a person, between ships was to bring the two vessels so
close that they actually touched. This was clearly highly dangerous thus, when the transfer
was successfully completed, the next event was to Go and separate the vessels as quickly as
possible (http://www.phrases.org.uk).
Types of idiom: Pairs of words
Example sentence: Dave's life is out of danger now, but it was touch-and-go after the
operation.
62 6.
Now you’re out of the woods.
Idiom - out of the woods
Meaning: free from difficulty or perils; safe. Out of difficulties, danger or trouble
Free of a difficult or hazardous situation; in a position of safety or security.
Explanation:
This informal expression, alluding to having been lost in a forest to a difficult or perils
situation because the "woods" can be a dark and dangerous place for those who cannot find
their way out.
If you are out of the woods, you have emerged safely (out of danger) from a
dangerous situation or a difficult time.
This idiom is often used in the negative, not be out of the woods, as in "It is true that
the economy is getting stronger, but we are not out of the woods yet."
The British usage is ‘out of the wood’.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: We're through the worst of the recession; we're out of the woods now.
7.
It’s time to slack off and allow yourself some fun.
Idiom - slack off
Meaning:
This informal phrase has two different meaning:
1. To work less hard than is usual or necessary as in ‘Workers tend to slack off on Mondays
and Fridays’.
2. To become less severe or extreme as in ‘If this rain would slack off, we could finish the
work outside’.
Explanation:
In this context ‘slack off’ means to become less active; grow lazy. The horoscope
advices you to work less and do other activities for fun.
63 Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: Recently I have begun to slack off in my effort to find a new job.
8.
Change is on the horizon, and it's time for deep thought.
Idiom - on the horizon
Meaning: likely to happen or appear soon.
Explanation:
If something that is on the horizon is likely to happen soon. This informal idiom is
similarly to ‘cloud on the horizon’ which is means you can see a problem or difficulty is
ahead; likely to happen in the future.
‘On the horizon’ alludes to something that you can see it may happen or appear in the
future.
‘Change is on the horizon’ means a change may happen or appear soon.
Types of idiom: Traditional idiom
Example sentence: There are no new drugs on the horizon to treat this disease.
The 52 idioms from Daily Work Horoscope of www.astrology.com were cut and
analyzed. They can be classified as follows:
1. Some idioms have literal meanings so it’s easy to tell what they mean. You can
translate word-for-word, for instance; ‘out of control’.
2. In contrast, a large number of idioms are confusing as their meaning are not taken
literally, for instance; ‘break the ice’.
3. During this analysis, the origins of some idioms were found. Thus, learning the culture
and history behind them.
64 Aside from the confusion of the idioms’ meaning, there are a lot of problems when
reading idioms as follows: First, finding the idioms in dictionary can sometimes difficult due
to some idioms which are very old and some are new. The solution is to look into various
dictionaries and related books. Second, one idiom can have many different meanings like
words. Therefore, it is important to look into the context carefully and pick up the right one.
.
65 CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
It would be hard to imagine our modern-day existence without the use of computers and
the Internet. You can do on the Internet today almost anything you would do in life
otherwise, from making friends to making money, from studying to gaming. Today, you can
do just about anything, find anyone, and learn about everything you ever wanted to know.
And all of that, in the comfort of an easy chair in front of a computer.
Mostly important, internet becomes an important tool for learning. English is a major
language of the internet so we can learn English from the internet. The English language uses
many idioms in all forms of communication whether it was, written, oral, casual or formal.
Horoscope section in the website is the great resources of idioms. An idiom can be
incomprehensible part for the non-native speakers. However, the reason we should study
them are in the followings: Idiomatic expressions pervade English with a peculiar flavor and
give it astounding variety, bright character and color. They help language learners understand
English cultures, penetrate into customs and lifestyle of English people, and make a deeper
insight into English history. Idioms can frustrat the non-native speaker because their
meaning convey is non-compositional. It implies that you cannot understand the meaning of
the whole phrase putting the meanings of each word together. If you look at the individual
word, it may not even make sense grammatically. An idiom has the meaning only as a unit.
Though, learning idioms present a host of difficulties to English learners, primarily
because they don’t know the culture and history behind English idioms. That’s why they
often use idioms incongruous with the situation. Indeed, English learners utilize idiomatic
expressions very carefully, being afraid of using them incorrectly and being misunderstood.
They find idioms very problematic to both understanding and memorizing. So it’s rather
important and also interesting to study idioms for you to speak more fluently and naturally.
66 Horoscope are used by millions today via the internet because it is for free. Most large
websites have pages devoted to horoscope. Horoscope is the forecast of the human’s future
and life. There are a lot of methods to predict the future available on the internet. The popular
one is a forecast based on the 12 zodiac which is considered by human date of birth according
to the relative planetary positions.
Recommendation
Idioms can be found either in spoken or in written English. They can be found
everywhere. The researcher will discuss some of the useful recommendations or tips for
readers and English language learners.
1. You won’t learn these expressions in a standard textbook. But you will hear them all the
time in everyday conversations. You’ll also meet them in books, newspapers, magazines, TV
shows, and on the Internet.
2. The easiest way to identify an idiom is when the literal meaning is not appropriate.
3. The best way to learn and benefit from the study of idioms and their meanings is through
contextualization (assessing how and when the idiomatic expressions are used. This also
means you will not be able to find the meanings of such a phrase or sentence by looking in a
regular dictionary.
4. Reading English texts or listening to native speakers will help you to find a large
number of idioms. After a while some idioms will become familiar, and you will learn the
places and situations where you hear them.
5. Be sure to use idioms correctly. If you use idioms that is not right for the situation, it
sounds rather strange.
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