EFL Learners' Comprehension of English Idioms at The University Level

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the understanding of English idioms among EFL learners at the university level. To do this, an evaluative test was conducted to assess EFL learners' comprehension, and a questionnaire was used to investigate the problems and difficulties they face when learning English idioms. The study involved 85 Saudi female undergraduate English majors at the Department of English Language and Literature, College of Languages and Humanities, Unaizah, at levels seven and eight. The data collected were analysed using SPSS 25. The study results indicated that the learners had sufficient knowledge of idioms and were familiar with idiomatic expressions. However, the results also revealed that some students had difficulties learning idioms. Based on the findings, recommendations have been presented.

Keywords: idiom, idiomatic expression, competence, EFL learners.

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/15-6-03

Publication date: May 30th 2024