# Avoid idioms and colloquialisms (EK00043)

import { Aside, Badge } from '@astrojs/starlight/components';

Plain, literal phrasing reads clearly for every reader, regardless of first language. EkLine flags idioms and colloquialisms that may confuse a global audience and suggests a plain equivalent (rule EK00043).

## Why avoid idioms in documentation?

Idioms like `keep in mind` carry meaning that isn't obvious from the words themselves, which trips up non-native readers and translation tools. A plain equivalent conveys the same idea without the cultural context. Clear phrasing widens your audience and reduces support questions.

## What EkLine flags

EK00043 flags an idiom or colloquialism that has a plain equivalent.

- ❌ **Incorrect:** Keep in mind the rate limit.
- ✅ **Correct:** Consider the rate limit.
- ❌ **Incorrect:** Run the CLI to figure out the cause.
- ✅ **Correct:** Run the CLI to determine the cause.
- ❌ **Incorrect:** In light of the change, update your config.
- ✅ **Correct:** Because of the change, update your config.

## How to fix

Replace the idiom with the plain equivalent EkLine suggests.

## FAQ

### Why are idioms a problem in documentation?

Idioms carry meaning that isn't obvious from the words themselves, which trips up non-native readers and translation tools. A plain equivalent conveys the same idea without the cultural context.

### What can you use instead of an idiom?

Use the literal equivalent — "keep in mind" becomes "consider", and "figure out" becomes "determine". The plain phrase widens your audience and reduces support questions.

## Rule details

| Property | Value |
|----------|-------|
| Rule ID | `EK00043` |
| Category | Sentences and phrases |
| Default severity | <Badge text="Suggestion" variant="note" /> |
| Enabled by default | Yes |

## Ignore this rule

To keep a flagged idiom on one line, add an inline comment with a reason:

```markdown
<!-- ekline-ignore-next-line EK00043 -- idiom in a customer quote -->
"This tool helped us figure out the root cause fast."
```

To disable the rule across your project, add it to the `ignore` list in your [configuration file](/reviewer/configuration/ignoring-rules/#ignore).

## Related rules

- [EK00042](/reviewer/rules/concise-wording/) — Prefer concise words over complex terms
- [EK00015](/reviewer/rules/internet-slang/) — Avoid internet slang and abbreviations