What does figurative meaning involve?

Figurative meaning involves understanding words and expressions in a way that goes beyond their literal interpretation. This means that when a phrase or word is used figuratively, it represents ideas, feelings, or concepts that may not be immediately obvious from the actual words presented. For example, saying "it's raining cats and dogs" does not literally mean that animals are falling from the sky; instead, it signifies very heavy rain. This layer of meaning enriches language and allows for deeper expression and creativity in writing and speech, making connections and portraying emotions more vividly than simple, straightforward language.

The other options do not fully capture the essence of figurative meaning. While some involve emotional responses or symbolic use (which could relate to figurative language), they lack the comprehensive aspect of implying meanings beyond literal interpretation that is central to understanding figurative language.