ABSTRACT
This chapter considers how figurative expressions may create difficulties for second language (L2) speakers. In relation to this, the chapter explores the notion of metaphorical competence, that is, the ability to comprehend and use metaphors. To facilitate L2 learning and the development of metaphorical competence, different strategies, including raising metaphor awareness, have been proposed to be implemented in classroom settings. Beyond the L2 classrooms, most studies have shown that metaphorical meanings are not easily accessible to L2 speakers. The last section covers experimental findings on the L2 processing of metaphorical expression, and their implications for L2 teaching.
