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 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

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

than not colloquialisms) that they don't understand, and then just Google them. It takes a little

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

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

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.

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.