Open your mind…

Figurative LanguageMeaning

Poetic or creative language used to create a greater impact on the reader.

Figurative vs Literal language

Figurative Language Literal Language

He’s as strong as an ox. He is extremely strong.

I’m lightning. I run very fast.

I could eat a cow. I am very hungry.

MetaphorMeaning

Comparing the qualities of two unlike things to achieve a creative effect.

ExampleHer hair is silk. (texture)The truck is a monster. (size and strength)

SimileMeaning

A figure of speech comparing two unlike things that is often introduced by like or as.

ExampleThe many-colored fish is like a rainbow.Her smile is as bright as the sun.

PersonificationMeaning

Giving something human qualities.

ExampleThe smoke grabbed hold of my nose.The green light shouted at me to go.

AllusionMeaning

When you make reference to something from history, literature, current events, or popular culture.

ExampleWhen Jane looked into the greenhouse she

thought that she had entered the Garden of Eden.

PunMeaning

Using words that have more than one meaning for a humorous effect

ExampleSir Lancelot once had a very bad dream about

his horse. It was a knight mare.

OxymoronMeaning

A figure of speech that combines two contradictory terms

ExampleAct naturallyAwfully prettyPretty ugly

HyperboleMeaning

Big exaggeration, usually with humor.

ExampleIt weighed a ton! I’m so hungry I could eat a cow!

IdiomMeaning

Language that is peculiar to a group of people, or readily understood to pertain to a specific context

ExampleSinging at the top of your lungsHit the books

ClichéMeaning

A phrase that has become overly familiar or commonplace

ExampleLive and learnWhat goes around comes around