Similes, Metaphors, Personification, Hyperbole, and Idiom Figurative Language Similes, Metaphors, Personification, Hyperbole, and Idiom

Figurative Language A writer’s tool The writer does not literally mean what he or she writes. It helps the reader to visualize (see) what the writer is thinking.

Simile A simile is used to compare two things. It uses the words “like” or “as” to make comparisons.

Simile Examples Krissy is as pretty as a picture. Her hair shines like the sun. Her eyes sparkle like the stars in the sky.

Metaphor A metaphor is used to compare two things Instead of saying something is “like” or “as” --- a metaphor states that it just IS.

Metaphor Examples: John’s mind is a computer. Mary Ann is a heavenly angel.

Personification Nonhuman things or objects are given human characteristics.

Personification Examples: Hey Diddle, Diddle, said the cat to the fiddle. The cow jumped over the moon. The little dog laughed to see such a sport. The dish ran away with the spoon.

Simile, Metaphor or Personification? You are the apple of my eye. The rain kissed my cheeks. His temper was as explosive as a volcano. metaphor personification simile

Hyperbole An exaggeration.

Hyperbole Examples: I am so tired I could sleep for a year. His teeth were blinding white.

Idiom A word or phrase that is different from its meaning.

Idiom Examples: If he thinks he is copying my homework, he is barking up the wrong tree. For stealing the car, all he got was a slap on the wrist.

Hyperbole or Idiom? Don’t get too excited, I was just pulling your leg. Don’t worry, her bark is worse than her bite. I waited in line for a century. idiom idiom hyperbole

Your Turn Number your paper to 5.

What type of figurative language is being used? Simile Metaphor Personification Hyperbole Idiom

Susie decided to go out on a limb and ask Bryan to go with her to the Spring Dance. 1

The water beckoned invitingly to the hot swimmers. 2

Your friendship is the picture to my frame. 3

The glistening snowflake was as light as a feather. 4

Her smile was a mile wide. 5

Susie decided to go out on a limb and ask Bryan to go with her to the Spring Dance. idiom

The water beckoned invitingly to the hot swimmers. personification

Your friendship is the picture to my frame. metaphor

The glistening snowflake was as light as a feather. simile

Her smile was a mile wide. hyperbole