Practice Literal and Nonliteral Meanings
Boost reading comprehension by exploring the difference between what words say and what they actually mean. Kids can practice identifying literal and nonliteral expressions through fun, interactive quizzes with instant feedback.
Choose your level
Same skill, different difficulty. Start where it feels right — you can switch any time.
Grade level quizzes
10 questions · Multiple choice
10 questions · Multiple choice
10 questions · Multiple choice
10 questions · Multiple choice
10 questions · Multiple choice
Sometimes, words mean exactly what they say. That is their literal meaning. Other times, we use figures of speech where the words mean something totally different, which is a nonliteral meaning. For example, if someone says "I'm all ears," they do not actually turn into giant ears! They just mean they are listening very carefully.
Practice this skill at another grade level
The same skill with easier or harder sentences.
Printable literal and nonliteral meaning worksheets
Every Literal and nonliteral meaning quiz on this page also downloads as a free printable worksheet with a PDF answer key — great for homework, review, or the classroom. Sign in and use the print button on any quiz, or download a whole Grade 3 vocabulary workbook at once with Pro.
Read something at this level
Grade 3 reading passages to enjoy alongside vocabulary practice — each one comes with comprehension questions and a quiz.
Why Figurative Language Matters in 3rd grade
In third grade, reading shifts from basic decoding to deeper comprehension. This is the year kids are first introduced to figurative language, specifically distinguishing between literal and nonliteral meanings. Recognizing idioms, metaphors, and simple exaggerations helps young readers understand character motivations, follow humorous stories, and grasp the author's true intent. Without this skill, kids might take phrases like "it's raining cats and dogs" literally, leading to confusion.
Tips for Supporting Learners at Home and in Class
You can reinforce this core vocabulary skill through quick, daily conversations:
- Point out common idioms: When you use phrases like "bite your tongue" or "break a leg," stop and ask what those words actually mean.
- Draw the difference: Have children draw the literal meaning of a phrase (a literal bucket of kicked water) versus its nonliteral meaning.
- Read aloud together: Point out nonliteral phrases in storybooks and discuss why the author chose to use them.
How is this practice page?
Your rating helps us make vocabulary practice better.
Spotted a mistake or have a suggestion?