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One of the most difficult (and important) concepts to learn in any language is 'Idioms.' These are the figurative language, the metaphorical expressions that have been passed down through the culture with which the language is associated. Idioms are non-literal phrases like, 'two birds with one stone,' and 'take a knee.' These are often difficult to grasp, because the individual words don't possess their usual meaning. Instead the entire phrase has to be memorised and understood for how it is used.
The problem with idioms is, as 'fixed speech,' one must use them exactly right, or else the whole meaning is lost, usually with cringe-worthy results.

A common English idiom is 'pass the muster.' This idiom traces its origin back to the military, when troops were assembled and had to pass inspection. Therefore, to 'pass the muster' means to 'be good enough.'

However, due to laziness and not understanding the phrase, Americans have corrupted this idiom into 'pass the mustard.' The usage remains the same, 'to be good enough,' but instead of making sense, it now seems to refer to asking someone to hand you a condiment for your lunch.

This is incorrect, and is one example of why idioms must be passed on carefully, almost as if they are an intangible part of our cultural heritage.