Idioms and figurative expressions · Grade 3
In Grade 3 you learn: idiom or literal? Using the context.
An idiom is a group of words with a meaning that is different from the meanings of the single words. It's raining cats and dogs. doesn't mean animals are falling: it means it is raining very heavily. You learn idioms as whole phrases.
Key facts
- Use the context to work out an idiom: what is the speaker really saying? Idioms are usually informal, so use them in speech and stories rather than in formal writing.
Worked examples
Example 1
Idiom or literal? Omar is in hot water for breaking the window.
Answer: idiom
Example 2
Literal or idiom? The cat let the mouse go and it ran under the sofa.
Answer: literal: a real cat and a real mouse
Example 3
Is this an idiom or literal? Dad put his foot down: no phones at dinner.
Answer: idiom: Dad was firm and made a rule