Figurative Language

Created by Donna and Susan Brown An idiom does not mean exactly what it says.It is a colorful way of saying something. For example: “Fred could not wait to break the news to his parents.” This means that: •Fred is going to break something. •Fred is going to tell his parents something they don’t know. “The boss just gave Ryan the ax.” Does this mean: •Ryan’s boss gave him a tool for chopping. •Ryan’s boss just fired him. “Let’s get Fran to help us. She is always a ball of fire.” Does this mean: •Fran can help because she is on fire. •Fran can help because she is a good worker. Great! You’re an idiom ace!