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Hyperbole
Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Morris the American:
In Chapter 5, the reader is introduced to Quincey Morris, a native Texan who regularly uses idioms from his native dialect. Lucy observes this, quoting Quincey in her letter to Mina:
"Miss Lucy, I know I ain't good enough to regulate the fixin's of your little shoes, but I guess if you wait till you find a man that is you will go join them seven young women with the lamps when you quit. Won't you just hitch up alongside of me and let us go down the long road together, driving in double harness?"
Related Themes:
Chapter 18
Explanation and Analysis—Spilt Milk:
In Chapter 18, Seward informs Van Helsing of an important discovery: the house that Dracula purchased in England is right next to his own. Sad that they were unable to discover this fact before poor Lucy died, Van Helsing uses an idiom to both communicate and resolve his unhappiness:
Unlock with LitCharts A+'Oh, that we had known it before!' he said, 'for then we might have reached him in time to save poor Lucy. However, "the milk that is spilt cries not out afterwards," as you say. We shall not think of that, but go on our way till the end.'
