The Acquisition of Idioms: Transfer or What?

The acquisition of idioms has thus far been a neglected variable in the EFL environment. Learner's poor competence of English idioms can be attributed to the fact the study oflexis in general and idioms in particular was relegated to a minor position in contrast to syntax which received a paramount attention in both the structural and T.G.G paradigms. Overlooking the teaching of English idioms has resulted in student's lack of comprehension and in improper use of these idioms by both intermediate and advanced EFL learners. The problem manifests itself even more in translation, where some translators tend to use non-idiomatic expressions because of their lack of knowledge of these idioms and because of transfer from Ll' This study aims to find out to what extent English major students have mastered English idioms. For this purpose a 45item test (15 identical, 15 similar and 15 different) was developed by the researchers. Learners were later asked to translate the idioms from Arabic into English. The sample of the study consisted of 60 students, 30 of them enrolled in the M.A translation program and the others are English seniors. It also aims to find out whether the type of idioms makes a difference as to the accuracy of translating them from Arabic into English. Finally, findings of the study will be reported and discussed in light of the interference theory and recommendations will be made for proper learning of English idioms.