Metaphors are most commonly understood at which stage of development?

Metaphors involve abstract thinking and the ability to understand figurative language, which develops as cognitive abilities mature. During childhood, many children begin to grasp simple metaphors, but it is during adolescence that individuals become more proficient with abstract reasoning and complex language structures. This stage of development allows for a deeper understanding of figurative language, enabling adolescents to interpret and appreciate nuances within metaphors, which can express complex emotions or concepts.

In adolescence, cognitive development shifts towards more sophisticated intellectual abilities that facilitate the comprehension of abstract ideas, such as those conveyed through metaphor. This aligns with the increase in social awareness and emotional complexity experienced in this stage of life, allowing for a richer understanding of language and its subtleties. Consequently, the ability to understand and create metaphors peaks during adolescence, making it the appropriate choice for this question.