Which of the following would qualify as an example of "exceptional" language development for a three-year-old child?

Understanding the use of metaphors at the age of three would indeed qualify as an example of "exceptional" language development. Typically, children around this age are still in the early stages of language acquisition and are more focused on concrete language and literal meanings. The ability to grasp abstract concepts like metaphors indicates advanced cognitive and linguistic skills, as it demonstrates an understanding that language can convey meanings beyond the literal.

In early childhood, most children might begin to use simple phrases and sentences, plus they may start mastering fundamental elements of language, but metaphorical thinking usually develops later, around age 5 or 6. Therefore, a three-year-old who can understand metaphors is exhibiting language skills that are notably advanced for their age. This ability reflects not only a sophisticated grasp of language but also cognitive development, as metaphors require the ability to make connections between different concepts and think more abstractly.