Fixed expression

Updated on Nov 12, 2023

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A fixed expression 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:

all of a sudden

come into mind

fall in line

I can assure you

so to speak

surf the web

Siamese twins or irreversible binomials like mix and match, wear and tear, and rock and roll

trinomials (3-word fixed expressions); e.g. lights, camera, action, signed, sealed, and delivered, and lock, stock, and barrel.

References

Fixed expression Wikipedia

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