Practice identifying and explaining idioms, adages, and proverbs in context.
Read each problem carefully. Use context clues to explain the meaning of each saying. Write complete answers in the space provided.
Understanding figurative language and traditional sayings
Language Arts - Grade 6-8
- 1
Read the sentence: After studying for weeks, Maya said the final exam was a piece of cake. What does the idiom a piece of cake mean in this sentence?
- 2
Classify the saying as an idiom, adage, or proverb: Do not count your chickens before they hatch. Explain your choice.
- 3
Read the sentence: Jordan was nervous before the play, but his older sister told him to break a leg. What does break a leg mean in this context?
- 4
Explain the meaning of the adage: Actions speak louder than words. Give one example of a situation where this adage would apply.
- 5
Read the sentence: When the group project started to fail, Lena decided to take the bull by the horns and organize a new plan. What does the idiom take the bull by the horns mean?
- 6
Choose the best meaning of the proverb: The early bird catches the worm. A. People who arrive late get the best rewards. B. People who prepare or act early have an advantage. C. Birds are better hunters than other animals. D. Worms only come out in the morning. Explain your answer.
- 7
Write a short sentence that correctly uses the idiom under the weather.
- 8
Read the sentence: I was going to tell Sam about the surprise party, but I did not want to let the cat out of the bag. What does let the cat out of the bag mean?
- 9
Explain the meaning of the proverb: Better late than never. Then describe a real-life situation where someone might use it.
- 10
Read the sentence: The debate was intense, so Mr. Lee reminded the students, You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. What advice is Mr. Lee giving?
- 11
Classify each saying as an idiom, adage, or proverb: A. It is raining cats and dogs. B. Honesty is the best policy. C. When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
- 12
Create a short dialogue of 3 to 4 lines between two students that uses one idiom and one proverb or adage correctly. Underline or label each saying.