Definition of "idiomatic" in English

adjective

1. Pertaining or conforming to idiom, the natural mode of expression of a language.

   • The inclusion or omission of definite articles follows idiomatic norms in each language and depends on context and intent.
   • In English, the only idiomatic position for a pronoun as the object of a phrasal verb is before the particle, whereas a noun as object can fall either before or after the particle; thus only he picked them up but either he picked his tools up or he picked up his tools.

2. Resembling or characteristic of an idiom.

   • An idiomatic phrase that warns us against Pollyannaism is "don't count your chickens before they're hatched".

3. Using many idioms.

4. (music) Relating to parts or pieces which are written both within the natural physical limitations of the instrument and human body and, less so or less often, the styles of playing used on specific instruments.

5. (programming) Following the conventions of the language, or doing things in the common way for the language, rather than code that is ported from another language and therefore may not follow the common conventions.

noun

1. Synonym of idiom.