Aren't vulgar words like the b and f word colloquialisms and if so why/

Hi Guest, Well, I'd call such words colloqialisms. I certainly don't advise you to use them in your formal speaking or writing. They are also called 'swear words'. I'm not sure which 'b' word you mean. It's not 'Bush'? Best wishes, Clive

Can anybody recomend me a good book for english learners to use when trying to expand their vocabulary to include idioms and colloquilisms

Can any one help me by telling me a good book for English learners to use, when trying to improve their vocabulary to include idioms and colloquilisms

Personally I find a very useful method to be to get learners to watch English-language films, news reports, or even YouTube short-form video; get them to jot down words or expressions (more often than not colloquialisms) that they don't understand, and then just Google them. It takes a little time...

This companion is good !! " Speak English Like American " http://books.google.com/books?id=isE_7kJN9CgC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Speak+english+like+american&ei=dz7aSezpNo3WzAS6qpjDBw&client=firefox-a

I suggest just using the dictionary to check the meanings, and picking up idiomatic expressions and vocabulary naturally by reading or listening regularly. I used to look for that kind of ESL material too, until I realized picking up expressions and vocabulary by practicing was much more natural and...

I sometimes use this one (there is a preview on line.) http://books.google.com/books?id=9re1vfFh04sC

I'm sorry Savvy but I don't see what's wrong with 'fouled up' . Same for 'shirker' . My dictionary says they are both 'colloquialisms' but doesn't mention they'd be considered 'slang'. Waïti.

Thanks, CJ! For us non-natives who are reasonably fluent with the language, colloquialisms are where we lose out, and that's where EF helps us the most! Cheers, - Joy.