Figurative and Literal Language

Literal Language Figurative Language You say exactly what you mean. Example: That outfit is horrible. You don’t say exactly what you mean. The reader has to infer the meaning. Example: I would have never thought of putting that outfit together.

Denotation Connotation the dictionary definition of a word The thoughts, feelings, and emotions a person associates with a word

Personification Giving human characteristics to nonhuman things Example: Angry flood waters slapped the house.

Simile Compare two unlike things using “like” or “as” Examples: Her eyes were as bright as stars. The toddler was like a demolition derby.

Metaphor Compare two unlike things without using “like” or “as” Examples: Her eyes were sparkling emeralds. He’s a lion when he fights.

Hyperbole An exaggeration so dramatic that no one can believe it; overstatement to emphasize a point Examples: This bag weighs a ton. I told you a million times.

Onomatopeia A word that imitates a natural sound Examples: Buzz Boom Hiss Zoom Pop Pow

Alliteration The repetition of the same letter or sound, especially consonant sounds, at the beginning of words. Example: Miss Warren worried while waiting with Wendy. Ferrets phone on Fridays for falafel.

Oxymoron Words or phrases in which contradictory or opposite terms are used together Examples: Jumbo shrimp Climb down Act natural

Allusion A reference to a person, place, or event from history, literature, sports, movies or the arts Example: Dad turns into Scrooge every year around Christmas.

Idiom a group of words whose collective meaning can not be taken literally Examples: Sharon stayed home because she is under the weather today. I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.