Figurative Language and Idioms

What is Figurative Language?

Figurative Language – language that goes beyond the literal

(actual) meaning of the words.

Types of Figurative Language Imagery – helps paint a picture in your

mind We sat on a cool, green carpet of grass. The moist and chocolaty scent floated to me.

Simile – comparison using like or as She is as strong as a horse.

Metaphor – comparison between two unlikely things Sara is a nightingale in the school choir.

Types of Figurative Language

Alliteration – repeated consonant sounds Creamy and crunchy

Personification – gives human qualities to animals or objects The low clouds bumped into the mountians

Onomatopoeia – use of words that mimic sounds Buzz, swish, zigzag, zip

Types of Figurative Language

Hyperbole – exaggerated statement My brother exploded when he saw the

damage to his car. Idiom – word combos that have a

meaning different than the literal meaning Rush hour traffic moves at a snail’s

pace. Sally was tongue tied when she said

the poem.

What is an idiom?

Idiom – a combination of words that have a meaning different than the literal meaning of the words individually

Examples of Idioms

1) To sit on the fence Literal Meaning – one who is sitting

on a fence Idiomatic Meaning – one who is

not making a clear choice regarding a situation

The politician sat on the fence and would not give his opinion about the tax issue.

Examples of Idioms

2) To hold one’s horsesLiteral Meaning – to hold another person’s horses

Idiomatic Meaning – to stop and wait patiently for someone or something

“Hold your horses,” I said when my friend started to leave the store without me.

Examples of Idioms

3) To put your foot in your mouthLiteral Meaning – to put your foot into your mouth

Idiomatic Meaning – to say something embarrassing incorrect

I put my foot in my mouth when I yelled “stranger danger” as my mom grabbed my arm.