Post on 17-Dec-2015
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