Fixed expression
Encyclopedia
A fixed expression in English is a standard form of expression that has taken on a more specific meaning than the expression itself. It is different from a proverb
in that it is used as a part of a sentence, and is the standard way of expressing a concept or idea.
Examples include:
Proverb
A proverb is a simple and concrete saying popularly known and repeated, which expresses a truth, based on common sense or the practical experience of humanity. They are often metaphorical. A proverb that describes a basic rule of conduct may also be known as a maxim...
in that it is used as a part of a sentence, and is the standard way of expressing a concept or idea.
Examples include:
- all of a sudden
- come into mind
- fall in line
- I can assure you
- so to speak
- surf the web
- trinomials (3-word fixed expressions); e.g. "lights, camera, action", "signed, sealed, delivered".