Figurative Language I literally died! Figuratively

Definition Figurative language is language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. Be careful to make sure you are still saying something that makes sense. A person should be able to understand what is being said. Ex: As big as a giant means the person is probably very tall (This is a good use of figurative language)

Types: Simile A comparison using like or as Bad Example: I felt like a panda at the amusement park. Why is this a poor simile? Good Example: They fought like cats and dogs. Why is this a good simile?

Metaphor A comparison that doesn’t use like or as Good Example: You are a treasure Why is this a good example? Bad example: He was a raincoat Why is this a bad example?

Personification Personification gives human characteristics to inanimate objects, animals, or ideas. Good Example: Opportunity knocks Bad Example: The drawer ran away.

Hyperbole A hyperbole is an outrageous exaggeration that emphasizes a point, and can be ridiculous or funny. Hyperboles can be added to fiction to add color and depth to a character Example: You snore louder than a freight train

Onomatopoeia Onomatopoeia is also a sound device. It uses words that sound like their meaning, or mimic sounds. EX: The fire sizzled and cracked

Idioms An idiom is an expression used by a particular group of people with a meaning that is only known through common use. Example: He kicked the bucket

Synecdoche A synecdoche is a figure of speech using a word or words that are a part to represent a whole. Example, referring to credit cards as "plastic“ Example: “Benjamins” for hundred dollar bills

Metonymy Metonymy is a figure of speech where one thing is replaced with a word that is closely associated with it. Example: Using "Washington" to refer to the United States government. Example: Could you give me a hand?

Your figurative language is used to enhance what you write If your reader can’t understand what you mean in your comparison of something then it isn’t enhancing the picture in their mind Now, go back through your memoir and look at your uses of figurative language. Do they make sense? Would a reader understand what feeling or image you are trying to convey?