Front Desk
Idioms
Unit 5 Lesson 1
Idioms
Have you ever heard these common phrases and wonder what they mean?
Idioms
Some might be familiar, and some might be unfamiliar!
These are examples of Idioms.
Idioms are a kind of figurative language. They’re common phrases in the English language, that mean something they literally are not. They have a second, similar meaning that is purely figurative.
Simply put: Idioms are an expression that people say, that doesn’t literally mean what is said!
Some idioms can ALSO be metaphors, similes, or other types of language you’ve already learned! The main thing is that an idiom is a commonly used phrase, that isn’t literal.
It can be really confusing, especially for kids as they experience new phrases. Some you may have heard and didn’t even realize they were figurative language!
When pigs fly!
Spotting Idioms
Sometimes you might read a phrase and think, “huh?” How does that fit here, what does it mean?
Congratulations! That’s the first step to spotting an idiom! When a phrase is used, that just doesn’t quite fit, you MAY have found one! The next step is to examine it and see if what it’s saying seems possible or accurate.
The best way to learn and use idioms, is to read them in context and use them in your own speaking and writing. It takes time, because there are many!
Figuring Out Idioms
Which of these phrases are familiar to you? Which are new? Mark K for know and N for new for each. With a partner, (or your class, your teacher will decide!), discuss the ones that you and your partner know. Explain the meaning if you can.
Idiom Meanings
Knowing what these mean on their own, can help you when you read. Also, you can often figure out meanings of idioms in context too. Here are what these common idioms mean.
Does this dancing cooking match any of them? Nope. Just a hilarious dancing cookie!
Bonus if you knew this is an example of personification!
Idioms
The pictures on this page match the LITERAL meaning of the idioms, Can you figure out the pairs? What do they REALLY mean? Discuss with your class!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-ND
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
Check Out Key 3-2-1
3 Things You Learned About Idioms
2 Questions You Still Have About Idioms
1 Thing That You’ll Remember
Written Work
Today you’ll do some written work with idioms. You’ll decide which picture best matches the meaning of the idiom. Remember idioms are figurative, not literal!