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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
Chapter 5: Wool and Water
Explanation and Analysis—Catching Crabs:
In Chapter 5, Alice finds herself rowing through water with the Sheep. The Sheep uses a sarcastic idiom, "complimenting" Alice on "catching a crab," which leads to dramatic irony:
“That was a nice crab you caught!” she remarked, as Alice got back into her place, very much relieved to find herself still in the boat.
“Was it? I didn’t see it,” said Alice, peeping cautiously over the side of the boat into the dark water. “I wish it hadn’t let go—I should so like a little crab to take home with me!” But the Sheep only laughed scornfully, and went on with her knitting.
Related Themes:
Chapter 7: The Lion and the Unicorn
Explanation and Analysis—Fabulous Monsters:
In Chapter 7, Alice meets a Unicorn who is surprised to meet a real-life human child. The Unicorn uses a twist on an idiom that helps convey a sense of situational irony:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“This is a child!” Haigha replied eagerly, coming in front of Alice to introduce her, and spreading out both his hands towards her in an Anglo-Saxon attitude. “We only found it to-day. It’s as large as life, and twice as natural!”
“I always thought they were fabulous monsters!” said the Unicorn.
Related Themes:
