When discussing language, idioms are an essential component. They add color and depth to our speech, allowing us to express ourselves in unique ways. The idiom “when it comes to” is no exception. It’s a phrase that’s used frequently in English conversations, and its meaning can be somewhat confusing for non-native speakers.
The idiom “when it comes to” is often used when introducing a new topic or transitioning from one topic to another. It’s typically followed by a noun or pronoun that represents the subject being discussed. For example, you might say: “When it comes to cooking, I’m not very skilled.” In this case, the speaker is indicating that they lack expertise in cooking.
This idiom can also be used when comparing two things or people. For instance: “When it comes to intelligence, my sister is much smarter than me.” Here, the speaker is highlighting their sibling’s superior intellect.
Origins and Historical Context of the Idiom “when it comes to”
The idiom “when it comes to” is a commonly used phrase in English language that has been around for quite some time. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century when people started using this phrase as a way of expressing their opinions or preferences on a particular subject.
Historically, this idiom was often used in debates and discussions where individuals would express their views on different topics. It was also commonly used in political speeches and writings where politicians would use this phrase to emphasize their stance on certain issues.
Over time, the meaning of this idiom has evolved and expanded beyond its original context. Today, it is often used in everyday conversations as a way of introducing or transitioning into a new topic. For example, someone might say “When it comes to food, I prefer Italian cuisine” before discussing their favorite Italian dishes.
Usage and Variations of the Idiom “when it comes to”
The idiom can also be modified by using different prepositions after “comes”, such as “about”, “with”, or “in”. For example, instead of saying “when it comes to sports”, one could say “when it comes about sports” or “when it comes with sports”. These variations can add nuance and specificity to the meaning of the phrase.
| Variation | Example |
|---|---|
| “When it comes about” | “When it comes about politics, I prefer not to discuss.” |
| “When it comes with” | “When it comes with technology, I am not very knowledgeable.” |
Additionally, this idiom can be combined with other expressions for emphasis or clarification. For instance, one might say: “Whenitcomes down to”, implying that there are many factors at play but ultimately this is what matters most. Or one might use an adjective before the noun being discussed: “Whenitcomes down to important decisions,I always consult my family first.”
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Cultural Insights for the Idiom “when it comes to”
Synonyms for “when it comes to” include phrases such as “regarding,” “in terms of,” “with respect to,” and “concerning.” These phrases can be used interchangeably with the original idiom in order to convey similar meanings. On the other hand, antonyms for this phrase might include expressions like “apart from,” “excluding,” or simply omitting any introductory phrase altogether.
Cultural insights into the use of this idiom reveal that it is often employed in informal settings such as conversations among friends or colleagues. It can also be found in more formal contexts such as academic writing or business presentations. However, its usage may vary depending on regional dialects and cultural norms.
Practical Exercises for the Idiom “when it comes to”
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blank
In this exercise, you will be given a sentence with a blank space where “when it comes to” should be inserted. Your task is to choose the correct form of the idiom from a list of options.
Example: ___________ cooking, Mary is an expert.
a) When it goes down
b) When it gets dark
c) When it comes to
Answer: c) When it comes to
1. ___________ playing soccer, John is one of the best on our team.
a) When they come over
b) When they go out
c) When it comes to
2. ___________ organizing events, Sarah has a lot of experience.
a) When he wakes up
b) When she goes shopping
c) When it comes to
3. ___________ studying history, I always struggle with remembering dates.
a) When we watch movies
b) When they listen to music
c) When it comes to
Exercise 2: Conversation Practice
In this exercise, you will practice using “when it comes to” in conversational situations. Find a partner and take turns asking each other questions using the idiom.
Example:
Person A: What do you think about when you hear the phrase “when it comes to food”?
Person B: Well, when I think about food, I usually consider taste and nutrition first.
1. Person A: What’s your opinion on fashion?
Person B: When it comes to fashion, I think comfort is just as important as style.
2. Person A: What are your thoughts on traveling?
Person B: When it comes to traveling, I prefer to explore new cultures and try local cuisine.
3. Person A: How do you approach job interviews?
Person B: When it comes to job interviews, I always make sure to research the company beforehand and prepare thoughtful questions.
- Remember that “when it comes to” can be used in a variety of contexts.
- Practice using the idiom in different situations so that you become comfortable with its usage.
- Pay attention to how native speakers use “when it comes to” in conversations or media sources such as TV shows or movies.
By practicing these exercises, you will gain confidence in using the idiom “when it comes to”. Keep practicing and soon enough, this phrase will become second nature!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Idiom “when it comes to”
When using the idiom “when it comes to”, there are some common mistakes that people make. These errors can lead to confusion and miscommunication, so it’s important to be aware of them.
One mistake is using the phrase too frequently or inappropriately. It’s easy to fall into the habit of using “when it comes to” as a filler phrase, but this can dilute its impact and make your speech or writing sound repetitive. Additionally, you should avoid using this idiom when discussing something that doesn’t require a comparison or contrast.
Another mistake is failing to use appropriate grammar with this idiom. For example, some people may say “When it comes down for me choosing between two options…” instead of saying “When it comes down TO me choosing between two options…”. This kind of error can make your language sound unprofessional and sloppy.
Finally, you should be careful not to overuse this idiom in formal writing or speaking situations. While “when it comes to” is a useful phrase for informal conversations, relying on it too heavily in professional settings can make you appear unprepared or inexperienced.
By avoiding these common mistakes when using the idiom “when it comes to”, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and confidently in both casual and formal situations.