Figurative Language https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMSLgxj2dxk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPjAiUbdl14 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QbV81Ilq0I

What exactly is figurative language? Figurative language refers to a way of using description to create a special image and bring out one’s emotions. It is also closely linked to the senses. You are essentially bypassing the literal meaning There are several types of figurative language. Figurative language is an important part of writing and is also widely used in speech.

Types of Figurative Language simile metaphor alliteration personification hyperbole onomatopoeia synecdoche

simile Using something concrete and comparing it to something abstract to create a deeper, more imaginative meaning. A simile uses the words “like” or “as” Example: The boy sat as quiet as a mouse during the movie. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H98HGQU1vRY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWDSxmMo9Z0

metaphor Using something concrete and comparing it to something abstract to create a deeper, more imaginative meaning. In a metaphor, you DO NOT use the words “like” or “as” Example: Her eyes were sparkling stars in the sky. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN104uji--Y https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFgRj-5d5Ac

alliteration The repetition of of words with similar consonant sounds (Remember, consonants are the letters that ARE NOT vowels). This is used to establish rhythm and bring a certain mood with words. Example: She sells seashells down by the seashore. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-koivS_aho https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhrY5ZCYtlU

personification Personification is when human-like qualities are given to inanimate objects (things that don’t move), animals or ideas. Personification creates an abstract emotional image by making an abnormal statement about an activity that could not possibly be conducted by an inanimate object. Example: The tree twisted its long arms in the wind. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMKgLnhelX4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JY7s3C6aSk

hyperbole Hyperbole is an exaggeration of a word or event. It’s not to be taken literal. Example: I climbed a million stairs to get to the top. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_FY0EKSGCY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_Gjpzi0gzs

onomatopoeia Words that sound like the action that is being performed. These words can help to make an image more vivid Example: pop, buzz, bang https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1b5kCvVBo8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6i3WQNqUWk

synecdoche Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part is used for the whole or the whole for a part, the special for the general or the general for the special. Means simultaneous understanding. Example: Twenty sails came into the harbor. Referring to workers as “Hired hands” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tAgzl h566E (2:34)

Idiom An expression that says one thing but means something totally different. Example: You crack me up, you’re so funny. Let’s hit the road! We don’t want to be late for hockey. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPngxOnjKP0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IlZmvZRudY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgWlE1NsEjU

Cliche An over used expression Example: Quick like a bunny. Show me the money. Crying in the rain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xcnft4p Qq70 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDrfaw yee6U (57 seconds)

Understatement The situation is made to seem less serious than what it really is. Example: Only a few teen girls love One Direction https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZuK3E EaMd8