In what way does mastering idiomatic expressions enhance the naturalness of communication with native Russian speakers?

Mastering idiomatic expressions significantly enhances the naturalness of communication with native Russian speakers because idioms reflect the nuances of the culture, history, and shared experiences of the language community. Idioms are fixed expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced from the literal definitions of their individual words. Using them correctly demonstrates a deep understanding of the language beyond basic grammar and vocabulary. Native speakers often use idioms unconsciously, and a lack of familiarity with them can make a non-native speaker sound stilted or unnatural. For instance, instead of saying 'He was very surprised,' a native speaker might say 'Он глазам своим не поверил' (On glazam svoim ne poveril) - 'He didn't believe his own eyes.' Using the idiomatic expression makes the communication more vivid and relatable. Understanding and appropriately using idioms also helps build rapport and connection. It shows that the speaker has taken the time to learn about the culture and is not just translating directly from their native language. However, it is crucial to use idioms correctly and in the appropriate context. Overusing idioms or using them incorrectly can sound unnatural or even comical. Mastering idioms requires not only memorizing their definitions but also understanding their cultural context and appropriate usage. By incorporating idiomatic expressions judiciously and accurately, a non-native speaker can significantly improve the naturalness and fluency of their communication with native Russian speakers.