What does an 'idiom' represent?

An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be inferred directly from the literal meaning of its individual words. Instead, idioms convey a figurative or metaphorical meaning that is widely understood within a particular culture or language. For example, the phrase "kick the bucket" is an idiom that means to die, and its meaning is not related to the literal act of kicking a bucket. Understanding idioms is crucial for effective communication, as they often reflect cultural elements and shared experiences.

The other choices do not accurately define an idiom. A statement with a direct and clear meaning refers more to literal expressions, while non-verbal cues pertain to body language and gestures rather than verbal idioms. The assertion that a type of figurative language requires extensive knowledge may apply to complex idiomatic expressions, but it does not encapsulate the fundamental definition of an idiom itself.