Literal and Nonliteral Language

Front

What is literal language?

Back

Literal language means using words in their most basic sense, without any exaggeration or metaphor. For example, 'The cat is on the mat' is literal.

Front

What is nonliteral language?

Back

Nonliteral language uses words in a way that is different from their usual meaning, often to create an effect or to express an idea. For example, 'It's raining cats and dogs' is nonliteral.

Front

Give an example of a sentence using literal language.

Back

'The dog is barking loudly.'

Front

Give an example of a sentence using nonliteral language.

Back

'I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.'

Front

What does the phrase 'hands down' mean in nonliteral language?

Back

'Hands down' means without a doubt or easily.

Front

What does the phrase 'tongue tied' mean in nonliteral language?

Back

'Tongue tied' means to be unable to speak clearly or to feel nervous when speaking.

Front

How can you tell if a sentence is using literal language?

Back

A sentence is using literal language if it describes something that is happening in a straightforward way, without any hidden meanings.

Front

How can you tell if a sentence is using nonliteral language?

Back

A sentence is using nonliteral language if it includes idioms, metaphors, or expressions that do not mean exactly what the words say.

Front

What does the phrase 'on the fence' mean in nonliteral language?

Back

'On the fence' means to be undecided or unsure about something.

Front

What does the phrase 'put your hands down' mean in a classroom context?

Back

'Put your hands down' means to stop raising your hand and to lower it, usually when the teacher is speaking.