Try some of these strategies.

• Guess at the word’s/phrase’s meaning and use.
• Check a dictionary for the exact meaning and use.
• Read the word/phrase aloud.
• Check to see if the word/phrase has more than one meaning.
• Check for words/phrases with similar meanings.
• Practice writing the word/phrase correctly on paper.
• Find a way to remember the word or phrase (mnemonic device).
• Keep a list of new words/phrases.
• Practice using the word/phrase in reading, writing, or speaking.

When basic strategies do not help you discover the meaning of a new word or phrase, as with idioms or homonyms, the best strategy is to consult a good dictionary. Some common homonyms and idioms are presented here.

Homonyms and Idioms

Homonyms and idioms can be confusing. The words “two,” “to,” and “too” sound the same, but they have different spellings, meanings, and uses. The word “two” refers to the number 2. The word “to” is used as a preposition, and the word “too” is used to replace the word “also.” These words are called homonyms. Dictionaries may list homonyms for words that are frequently confused.

Idioms are phrases. They have specific meanings that are often different from the meanings of the individual words. For example, the idiom “a chip off the old block” means that a child is similar to his or her parent. It has nothing to do with a piece of a wood block. Looking in the dictionary is the best way to discover their meanings.