Literal Meaning:
* Definition: The dictionary definition of a word. It's the most straightforward and objective interpretation.
* Example: The word "hot" literally means having a high temperature.
Figurative Meaning:
* Definition: A meaning that goes beyond the literal definition, often using metaphors, similes, or other figures of speech.
* Example: "That new car is hot!" Here, "hot" doesn't refer to temperature, but instead means something like "stylish" or "desirable."
Why Different Readers Can Interpret the Same Word Differently:
* Context: The words around a particular word can influence its meaning. For example, "hot" has a different meaning in "the hot sun" versus "hot gossip."
* Personal Experience: A word can trigger different associations based on a reader's background, culture, and past experiences.
* Figurative Language: When authors use figurative language, they intentionally invite readers to interpret the words in a non-literal way. This can lead to multiple interpretations.
* Ambiguity: Some words are inherently ambiguous, meaning they can have multiple valid meanings.
In Summary:
* Literal meaning: The objective, dictionary definition of a word.
* Figurative meaning: A non-literal interpretation that uses figurative language.
* Different readers can interpret the same word differently due to context, personal experience, and the use of figurative language.
Let me know if you'd like more examples or want to explore a specific word!