The relationship between an idiomatic phrase and a literal phrase lies primarily in their meanings and how they are understood in communication.
An idiomatic phrase is a group of words whose meaning cannot be inferred from the meanings of the individual words. Instead, idioms convey a specific idea or sentiment that usually has cultural significance. For example, the idiom "kick the bucket" means to die, rather than referring literally to the act of kicking a bucket. Idioms often rely on metaphorical language and may not be easily understood by non-native speakers or those unfamiliar with the cultural context from which they originate.
On the other hand, a literal phrase expresses a straightforward, exact meaning based on the definitions of the individual words used. For example, the literal phrase "kick the bucket" would simply refer to the act of physically kicking a bucket, without any underlying connotation of death.
In summary, idiomatic phrases are figurative expressions that convey a deeper or different meaning than the literal interpretation of their words. Understanding the distinction between these two types of phrases is essential for effective communication, as idioms enrich language and convey complex ideas succinctly but can also lead to misunderstandings if taken literally.