Review & Free Download Link for English Idioms in Use (PDF)!

The use of idioms in spoken and written English is one of the factors that earns points in exams like IELTS, and TOEIC in English. In this article, PREP will provide a detailed review of the English Idioms in Use book, as well as guide you on how to study and provide a free download link for the high-quality PDF version!

I. Introduction to English Idiom in Use

1. General information

The book series is launched to enhance idiomatic expressions to meet the needs of communication and language exploration. With the desire to provide you with effective approaches to English idioms learning, the author has conducted research to ensure that the idioms presented are common, modern, and practical in various topics of everyday communication.

2. Targeted learners

The English Idioms in Use book set consists of two volumes designed for different proficiency levels based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR):

• English Idiom in Use Intermediate corresponds to the intermediate level, equivalent to CEFR B1-B2 (3.5-5.0 IELTS). 
• English Idiom in Use Advanced corresponds to the advanced level, equivalent to CEFR C1-C2 (5.0-6.5 IELTS).

II. A review of English Idiom in Use

1. English Idiom in Use: Intermediate

The lessons are divided into 62 units, with the first two units providing a general introduction to idioms and guidance on using a dictionary when studying idioms. The remaining units are divided into three different groups based on the classification of idioms.

• Units 3-30 (Idioms to talk about): Idioms are categorized based on common themes and topics they are typically used to discuss. For example, the idiom "over the moon" (meaning very happy) would be found in a unit with the theme of "Happiness." 
• Units 31-46 (Idioms from the topic area of...): Idioms are organized based on elements and related imagery they use. For example, the idiom "be right up sb's street" (meaning something is well-suited to someone's interests) would be found in a unit with the theme of "Road" because the idiom includes the imagery of a "street."
• Units 47-62 (Idioms using these keywords...): Idioms are classified based on keywords. For example, the idiom "break sb's heart" (meaning to make someone sad) would be found in a unit with the theme of "Heart" because the keyword "heart" is present in the idiom.

Each lesson consists of two main parts: the theoretical part and the exercise part. The theoretical part is designed on the left-hand page, while the exercises are on the right-hand page.

2. English Idiom in Use: Advanced

English Idiom in Use: Advanced contains more advanced content that delves deeper into understanding the various aspects related to idioms and applying specific proverbs to both spoken and written language. The lessons are divided into 60 units. The units are classified into 7 different groups.

• Units 1 - 8 (Learning about idioms): The main content revolves around learning about idioms, and important aspects generally related to idioms.
• Units 9 - 13 (Types of idioms): Learn about different types of idioms such as idioms using the simile metaphor or idioms originating from many other languages.
• Units 14 - 24 (Idioms from the topic area of...): Idioms are arranged based on related factors and images they use.
• Units 25 - 38 (Idioms to talk about...): Idioms are classified by the topic they are commonly used.
• Units 39 - 41 (Idioms used in...): Idioms specialized in three forms of writing including Journalism, Advertising, and Formal writing.
• Units 42 - 47 (Idioms used in conversation): Idioms are classified by conversational functions, for example expressing agreement/disagreement, emphasis, and storytelling.
• Units 48 - 60 (Idioms using these keywords...): Idioms are classified based on keywords appearing in the idioms.   

Similarly to the Intermediate version, each lesson in the English Idiom in Use: Advanced pdf also has two main parts: theory and exercises. The exercises also have diverse forms.

III. The pros & cons of the English Idiom in Use series

1. Pros

• The structure of the English Idiom in Use series is presented clearly and logically. The content of each unit's lesson follows a certain order. A special point is a design that places the theory section on the right page and the exercise section on the left page, creating convenience for students during the learning and exercise process.
• The illustrations are vivid and eye-catching. At the same time, titles or notes are framed or highlighted in bold with different colors, helping students remember easily.
• In terms of content, the book has selected the most common, widely used idioms with the highest applicability in both spoken and written English. At the same time, it incorporates idioms into various forms of dialogues or texts, helping students visualize the context and usage of idioms.
• The English Idiom in Use book has a table of contents listing idioms in alphabetical order along with page numbers, allowing students to use this section like a dictionary to search for information efficiently and save time.

2. Cons

• The book "English Idiom in Use" is written entirely in English, which can pose difficulties for learners at an intermediate level. 
• The lessons primarily focus on the definition and usage of idioms. However, in terms of grammar, the book does not discuss the role of idioms in sentences or provide grammar notes.
• The book does not provide instructions on how to pronounce each idiom, so learners still need to rely on supporting tools such as dictionaries to ensure accurate pronunciation.

IV. How to use English Idiom in Use Effectively

• Flexibility in learning order: Each unit is an independent lesson, so you can choose to study in two different ways: follow the pre-determined path in the book or choose any lesson that you feel is necessary or interesting. However, you should study the first two units to fully understand their nature and get relevant information about idioms before learning specifics as they are considered the foundation for subsequent lessons.
• Preparing a dictionary: You need a suitable and reliable dictionary (paper or online) to serve the learning process and translate idiom meanings. It is recommended to use English-English dictionaries to ensure accuracy and enhance language ability. You can refer to some reputable online dictionaries like Cambridge Dictionary or Oxford Learner's Dictionaries.
• Steps to study book content:
• Step 1: Start with the theory section, use a dictionary to learn pronunciation or meanings when needed.
• Step 2: Do the exercises, use the Key after completion to check answers and correct mistakes.
• Step 3: Check the Tips or Language Help at the end of each lesson, pay attention to these parts to learn effective study strategies.
• Combining learning and practice: In addition to studying content and doing exercises in the book, apply the knowledge in practice by using idioms in speeches, communication, or writing paragraphs. Furthermore, combine using other methods such as reading English books, watching movies, news. Idioms learned may appear during viewing/reading to effectively consolidate knowledge in the long run.

IV. Download English Idiom in Use in PDF format for free

To enhance your learning experience, PREP has collected the entire collection of English Idiom in Use PDF books, available in attractive and entirely free versions! Click on the link below to download this resource right away:

This is PREP's full review of both the content and form of the English Idiom in Use book set. In addition, there are download links for the books and guidance on effective study methods. Please refer to this for your reference.