📚 Understanding Literal vs Figurative Meaning

Literal meaning: The actual, real meaning of a word

Figurative meaning: A meaning that is not real but expresses an idea or feeling

Examples with "heart":

Literal: "The doctor listened to my heart with a stethoscope."

Figurative: "She has a kind heart." (This means she is caring, not that her organ is kind!)

1. Which sentence uses "heart" literally?

My heart was broken when my pet died.

The heart pumps blood through the body.

He knows that poem by heart.

2. Which sentences use "heart" figuratively? (Check all that apply)

She wore her heart on her sleeve.

The heart has four chambers.

His heart was racing with excitement.

The heart is located in the chest.

🔗 Matching Activity

Directions: Match each figurative phrase with its meaning by drawing a line.

1. "Have a heart"

2. "Heart of gold"

3. "Learn by heart"

4. "Change of heart"

A. To memorize completely

B. Be kind and understanding

C. A very generous person

D. To change your mind

3. Write one sentence using "heart" literally (about the body part):

4. Write one sentence using "heart" figuratively (about feelings or ideas):

5. Why is it important to understand both the literal and figurative meanings of words like "heart"?