Most individuals with autism have difficulty understanding abstract language, sarcasm, and metaphor. Individuals with autism may also take language literally.

Here are some examples of how we might use language in everyday situations:

“its raining cats and dogs”.

“I've learnt so much today, it feels like my head is going to explode”

“You're so funny” said sarcastically.

Someone walks into a room and says “goodness, its hot in here”.

A neuro-typical individual may think about opening a window, an autistic person may just assume that it is hot, and not have any notion to do something to change the situation.

These are examples of how language can be used in one way, but be meant or interpreted in another. For an autistic individual this type of language can be confusing, or the language and its meaning can be taken literally. The use of abstract concepts such as “I wish, I believe, I imagine” can also be very confusing for an autistic individual, because they are talking about concepts that are not visible or concrete, they are individual beliefs, or imaginary concepts.

Most of us learn to understand this type of language, and even if we haven't heard an expression before, we can often figure out its meaning from the context in which it was used. Teaching metaphors to autistic individuals can sometimes help with their understanding of these concepts, but there are thousands of examples of metaphors and often we make up our own. However, it is possible to teach some of the common ones so that an individual with autism can both understand their meaning and use them.

It is important to be aware of our own language when we communicate with individuals with autism. We must refrain from using sarcasm and abstract language. We must also be aware that things we say may be taken literally and so must think carefully before we make a comment or give a command. If we say something will happen later, we must be sure that it will happen. If we give a message, we must make sure it is clear and none ambiguous. The use of visuals and socials stories can be used to help individuals with autism understand language, tasks, and help them deal with changes in a routine.

A downloadable version of this article, with a suggested reading list, is available for viewing and / or downloading from the Autism Section of the Downloads Centre.