Go Figure! Figurative Language

Recognizing Figurative Language The opposite of literal language is figurative language. Figurative language is language that means more than what it says on the surface. It usually gives us a feeling about its subject. Figurative language is most prevalent in poetry. Poets use figurative language almost as frequently as literal language.

What is figurative language? Whenever you describe something by comparing it with something else, you are using figurative language.

Types of Figurative Language Alliteration Hyperbole Idioms Simile Metaphor

Alliteration Repeated consonant sounds occurring at the beginning of words or within words. Example: She was wide-eyed and wondering while she waited for Walter to waken.

Alliteration Practice Which of the following is an example of alliteration? Sammy stuck snails in Stanley’s satin sheets. Amy aimed accurately and won the archery competition. Complete this example of alliteration. Jack jumped joyously when… Write you own example of alliteration. It must be at least five words long.

Idioms An idiom refers to a construction or expression in one language that cannot be matched or directly translated word-for-word in another language. Example: "She has a bee in her bonnet," meaning "she is obsessed," cannot be literally translated into another language word for word.

Idiom Practice Complete the idioms below by filling in the blank with the appropriate word. It cost me an arm and a _____ to get my car fixed! I can’t believe they charged me $2,500! It’s raining _______ and ________. We couldn’t even leave the house with the flood outside our door. Explain the figurative meanings of the idioms above.

Hyperbole An exaggerated statement used to heighten effect. It is not used to mislead the reader, but to emphasize a point. Example: She’s said so on several million occasions.

Hyperbole Practice Which of the following is an example of hyperbole? The hotel room was so small that even the mice had to hunch their shoulders. Maria was happy when she passed her Geometry final. Turn the sentence below into an example of hyperbole. I want to travel to Paris.

Simile A figure of speech which involves a direct comparison between two unlike things, usually with the words like or as. Example: The muscles on his brawny arms are strong as iron bands.

Simile Practice Complete each simile below by filling in the blank. John’s as fast as a _________. Julie hates it when her brother eats like a _________. When my sister sneezes, it sounds like a ____________ going off! Write your own simile .

Metaphor A figure of speech which involves an implied comparison between two relatively unlike things using a form of be. The comparison is not announced by like or as. Example: The road was a ribbon wrapped through the dessert.

Metaphor Practice Complete each metaphor below by filling in the blank. Kathy’s a __________ in the morning, at least until she has her coffee. Life’s a _______________; enjoy the ride! Explain the following metaphors: Mom said my room is a pig pen My friend Joey is a clown. Everyone calls me an angel. Write a metaphor about someone who is not well-behaved. Write a NICE metaphor about one of your friends.

Bell ringer 1-10 What is a hyperbole? What is an idiom? Give an example. What is an idiom? What is alliteration? Give an example? What is a metaphor? What is a simile?