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Hyperbole
Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Key Examples in The Catcher in the Rye
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Got The Ax:
Holden uses an idiom that’s also a metaphor to describe his expulsion from Pencey Prep. He tells the reader that, despite his efforts, he “got the ax”:
They gave me frequent warning to start applying myself—especially around mid-terms, when my parents came up for a conference with old Thurmer—but I didn’t do it. So I got the ax. They give guys the ax quite frequently at Pencey.
Related Themes:
Chapter 17
Explanation and Analysis—Soul Kiss:
Holden says a rude, period-specific idiomatic thing to Sally when he notices her attention is straying to another boy while they're at the theater together:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Old Sally kept saying, “I know that boy from somewhere.” She always knew somebody, any place you took her, or thought she did. She kept saying that till I got bored as hell, and I said to her, “Why don’t you go on over and give him a big soul kiss, if you know him? He’ll enjoy it.”
Related Themes:
