- Definition
An idiom is a phrase where the words together mean something different from what they literally say, like "it's raining cats and dogs" doesn't mean animals are falling from the sky.
The phrase 'it's raining cats and dogs' is an idiom that means it's raining very heavily.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: An idiom is like a secret code where the words have a hidden meaning that you have to learn.
Ask your child: What do people really mean when they say 'it's raining cats and dogs'?
Common mix-up: Kids often try to understand an idiom by looking at each word separately. The real meaning is a special phrase you learn as a whole, like a secret password.
Examples
- 'Piece of cake' is an idiom that means something is very easy to do.
- When someone says 'break a leg,' it's an idiom for 'good luck,' especially before a performance.
idiom is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
