language learning center · C2 · Lesson 6
Interpreting figurative language
Interpret metaphor, idiom, and restrained irony in context, then respond without taking the image too literally or amplifying it irresponsibly.
Step 1 of 8 — Dialogue
~6 min~45 min total
Work from a natural example to useful language, one small pattern, a spoken attempt, and a response that is relevant to your life.
Nadia
When he called the amendment a “Trojan horse”, he was not questioning its wording so much as the changes it might enable later.
Felix
Yes, although the image also insinuates deliberate concealment, which the available evidence does not establish.
Nadia
We can retain the concern without endorsing the insinuation: the amendment may create powers whose later use is difficult to predict.
Felix
That is more precise—and less likely to let the metaphor do the arguing for us.
Understand a natural example and learn a small set of useful words, phrases, and patterns.
These items were selected by the lesson curriculum for practical use—not extracted as an every-word list.
The metaphor suggests that…
The metaphor suggests that…
It is not so much… as…
It is not so much… as…
The image also insinuates…
Yes, although the image also insinuates deliberate concealment, which the available evidence does not establish.
We can retain the concern without endorsing…
We can retain the concern without endorsing the insinuation: the amendment may create powers whose later use is difficult to predict.
In less figurative terms,…
In less figurative terms,…
Which response interprets the metaphor while keeping its implication open to scrutiny?
Listen, then choose what you heard.
Write a reply to this line. Use a phrase from the lesson.
When he called the amendment a “Trojan horse”, he was not questioning its wording so much as the changes it might enable later.
Answer before viewing the model
Answer in your own words. Record yourself, listen back, and then compare your response with the model answer.
In English, interpret a metaphor or ironic remark, identify any hidden accusation, and restate the defensible point in literal language.
Choose an image or idiom commonly used in public discussion in a community you know.
Unpack figurative meaning in English
Learning rewards
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- 1. The metaphor suggests that…
- 2. It is not so much… as…
- 3. The image also insinuates…
- 4. We can retain the concern without endorsing…
- 5. In less figurative terms,…