Figurative Language

Figurative Language Term Definition Example Figurative Language Language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. The grass looks like spiky green hair. Sand is solid water. The flower smells like a candy shop.

The flower smells sweet. Literal Language Term Definition Example Literal Language Language that states exactly what it means. The grass looks green. The sand feels rough. The flower smells sweet.

My classmates are a bunch of wild animals. Metaphor Term Definition Example Metaphor A metaphor compares two things without using like or as. My room is a pigsty. vs. (My room is a mess.) (The author has a messy room and a pigsty is a messy place. The author doesn’t really live in an actual pigsty, but the comparison helps the reader understand how messy the room is.) My classmates are a bunch of wild animals. (My classmates are crazy.)

Simile Term Definition Example Simile A simile uses like or as to make a comparison. Authors use similes to make their writing more descriptive or vivid. Eric and I are like two peas in a pod. vs. (Eric and I are best friends.) (Two peas in a pod are close together. The author and Eric are close friends. The simile helps the reader understand their friendship.) My teacher is as sweet as pie. (My teacher is sweet.)

Idiom Term Definition Example Idiom A word or phrase that has a different meaning that what is being said. Let the cat out of the bag. vs. Telling someone about a secret. Costs an arm and a leg. Something that is very expensive. Hit the books. To study. When pigs fly. An event that will never happen.