Language & Autism - Strategies - Context (Word Relationships):
Figurative Language - Puns

When we use a metaphor, we say that one thing is something else. We suggest that the two are similar in some way but they are an absurd match if taken literally (basic meanings). We must compare the two ideas and look for similar characteristics that might apply. A simile operates in the same way as a metaphor with "like" or "as" added. An idiom is a group of words that cannot be understood from their basic meanings. The definition must be learned from the community or culture that surrounds us. Taken literally the image that comes to mind might be quite silly or absurd. Irony may take several different forms. You may recognize verbal irony when someone comments on how lovely the weather is when in fact a storm is raging. Dramatic irony may be present in a performance when the audience has been made aware of a murderous deed but the actors proceed unaware. Situational irony may appear in a scenario when an event occurs that is opposite of what one would have expected.Puns are humorous word play with words and phrases. The most common are homonyms (same sound/different meaning) and homophones (same or similar sound/different spelling and meaning). They can stand alone or take the form of riddles that make us laugh or even groan as we recognize their silliness. We see them often in greeting cards and Valentines Day wishes. Proverbs are short sentences frequently used within a culture to express commonly held truths or bits of wisdom. They are often used to comment upon a particular situation and to offer guidance.
        We learn through experience to understand these occurrences of figurative language and to insert them in our own speech and writing to add nuance, interest, drama and beauty. They require that we compare two fairly abstract ideas and use language creatively to emphasize important similarities or differences. The silliness and absurdity of their literal meaning challenge us to search for alternate associations.

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PUNS
Valentines Day Hearts     School Riddles