Literal vs. Figurative Language

Front

What is literal language?

Back

Literal language refers to words that mean exactly what they say. It is straightforward and does not involve any exaggeration or metaphor.

Front

What is figurative language?

Back

Figurative language uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It often involves metaphors, similes, and idioms.

Front

Give an example of a literal statement.

Back

An example of a literal statement is: 'The cat is on the mat.' This means exactly that the cat is physically located on the mat.

Front

Give an example of a figurative statement.

Back

An example of a figurative statement is: 'Time is a thief.' This means that time can steal moments from our lives, not that time is literally a person who steals.

Front

What is a metaphor?

Back

A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things by stating that one is the other, without using 'like' or 'as'.

Front

What is a simile?

Back

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'.

Front

What does it mean to say someone is 'two-faced'?

Back

Saying someone is 'two-faced' means that they are deceitful or hypocritical, presenting different personas to different people.

Front

What does 'heart of stone' mean?

Back

The phrase 'heart of stone' means that a person is emotionally cold or unfeeling.

Front

How can context help determine if language is literal or figurative?

Back

Context provides clues about the intended meaning of words. If the surrounding information suggests a non-literal interpretation, the language is likely figurative.

Front

Why is understanding the difference between literal and figurative language important?

Back

Understanding the difference is important for effective communication, as it helps in interpreting messages accurately and avoiding misunderstandings.