Humor and Figurative Expressions: Speech Therapy Guide
Humor and figurative expressions (metaphors, idiomatic expressions, irony) are part of non-literal language. Understanding them requires going beyond the literal meaning of words. These pragmatic aspects of language are often difficult for individuals with ASD, SLD, or social communication disorders.
😄 Figurative Language Resources
Expression cards, inference exercises, humor games
Access the tools →Types of Figurative Language
Idiomatic expressions: "to have the blues", "to faint", "to give up the ghost".
Metaphors: "this man is a lion" (= brave).
Irony and sarcasm: saying the opposite of what one thinks.
Humor: puns, jokes, absurdity.
Proverbs: "He who steals an egg will steal an ox".
Development
Understanding figurative language develops gradually: simple expressions around 5-6 years, metaphors around 7-8 years, irony around 8-10 years. Humor refines with age and social experience.
Difficulties
Individuals with a literal understanding may interpret "it's raining cats and dogs" as real cats and dogs falling. These difficulties are common in ASD and impact social interactions.
Intervention
💡 Strategies
Explicitly teach common expressions.
Illustrate the literal vs figurative meaning with images.
Context: learn to use contextual clues.
Repeated exposure to different forms of humor.
Our downloadable tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Literal understanding is common in ASD but not exclusive. It can also be seen in SLD or simply in young children. If associated with other social and communication difficulties, an evaluation may be helpful.
