How can you identify the "figurative meaning" of a phrase?

The figurative meaning of a phrase can be identified by understanding that it conveys something different from its literal meaning. Figurative language often uses metaphors, similes, idioms, and other devices to express ideas in a more imaginative or creative way. For example, when someone says, "It's raining cats and dogs," they are not literally suggesting that animals are falling from the sky; instead, they are using a figure of speech to indicate that it is raining heavily. Recognizing this distinction between the literal and figurative meanings allows readers to grasp the deeper implications or emotions expressed in the text.