In this figurative language KS2 resources pack, we present 42 different idioms for KS2 (e.g. ‘a piece of cake’, ‘open a can of worms’) with exciting and arresting images.
We’ve also provided the idioms and their meanings on separate cards, so you can challenge children to match each idiom to its definition. This makes for a great group work activity in KS2 English lessons.
We’ve also included completed idiom cards. Use these figurative language posters for KS2 classroom displays.
Idiom meaning
An idiom is a phrase that has a double meaning. Often we use them to exaggerate or emphasise something.
Idiom examples
- We’re all in the same boat (We all have the same problem)
- A piece of cake (Something which is easy to do)
- Couch potato (Someone who is lazy or inactive)
- All ears (Listening intently)
- All thumbs (To be clumsy or awkward)
- Biting off more than you can chew (To try to do more than is possible)
- Raining cats and dogs (It is raining very heavily)
- Not my cup of tea (That is not my preference)
- Feeling blue (Feeling sad)
- It’s all Greek to me (I don’t understand)
- Open a can of worms (To do or talk about something complicated or unpleasant which might be better off left alone)
What is figurative language KS2?
Figurative language is often used in fiction and poetry and involves using figures of speech to give a text more depth and richness. It often involves comparing things to other things to create an image in the reader’s mind. Idioms, similes, metaphors, personification, onomatopoeia and hyperbole are all examples of figurative language.
National Curriculum English programme of study links
Understand what they read by exploring the meaning of words in context.
Discuss and evaluate how authors use language, including figurative language, considering the impact on the reader.