Literal and non-literal language

Front

What is literal language?

Back

Literal language means exactly what it says. For example, 'The cat is on the mat' means the cat is really on the mat.

Front

What is non-literal language?

Back

Non-literal language means it does not mean exactly what it says. It often includes idioms and metaphors.

Front

What does the idiom 'in the doghouse' mean?

Back

It means someone is in trouble or has done something wrong.

Front

What does 'knows it by heart' mean?

Back

It means to memorize something very well.

Front

What does the phrase 'cost an arm and a leg' mean?

Back

It means something is very expensive.

Front

What is a 'couch potato'?

Back

A couch potato is a person who spends a lot of time sitting and watching TV.

Front

What does the idiom 'eat like a pig' mean?

Back

It means to eat a lot of food, often in a messy way.

Front

What is an idiom?

Back

An idiom is a phrase that has a meaning different from the literal meaning of its words.

Front

What does 'break a leg' mean in theater?

Back

It means to wish someone good luck.

Front

What does 'barking up the wrong tree' mean?

Back

It means to make a mistake in something you are trying to do.