Figurative Language Ms. Cox 7th Grade Reading

What is Figurative Language? Special words or phrases that help make literature or poems more interesting and exciting. They also help the reader understand better!

Simile A comparison of two unlike things using the words “like” or “as” The two things being compared must be completely different (unlike). Not every sentence that contains “like” or “as” is a simile! Ex: As the girl was humiliated, her cheeks turned red as an apple. Non-Ex: The girl is as tall as her brothers. (The girl and her brothers are not unlike things; they both describe people).

Metaphor A comparison of two unlike things by saying that one thing is a dissimilar object or thing. Usually contains words such as “am,” “are,” “is,” “was,” “were” Ex. Dad is a monster in the morning before he drinks coffee. (Dad and monster are dissimilar and the comparison is explained) Non-Ex: Dad is a boat. (Dad and a boat are dissimilar, but there is no clear reason for the comparison).

Hyperbole An exaggeration that cannot possibly be true Tip: Often intended to be funny. If it could happen in real life, then it is not a hyperbole! Ex: Josie’s new friend is as skinny as a tooth pick. (No person could be as skinny as a tooth pick). NON Ex: Josie’s new friend is as skinny as a fashion model (this could be true, so is not a hyperbole).

Personification Giving human qualities to non-human things. Tip: The human quality must be completely unique to humans Can be an action ( The sun smiled) or an adjective (the angry wind howled). EX: The sun smiled at the world as it rose this morning. (Smiling is unique to humans) NON-EX: The flowers swayed in the breeze. (Flowers and humans can sway).

Idiom A group of words whose collective meaning is quite different from their individual, literal meaning. Tip: When translated to another language, idioms do not make sense; many have a historical explanation. Ex. “When Bill joined the military, dad said he was swimming with the sharks.” (There were no sharks; he meant Bill was in danger). NON-Ex: “When I fell overboard, I was swimming with the sharks.”

Alliteration The repetition of the same initial consonant sound in a series of words. Tip: Often used in brand names- “Dunkin Donuts,” “Coca-Cola” Ex: “Harry hit the house hard with a hammer.” Non Ex: “Andy hit the nail hard with the hammer.”

Allusion A reference to a person, place, or event from literature, sports, history, movies, or the arts. Tip: The reader must have prior knowledge of what is being referenced to “get” the allusion. Ex: Heather’s mysterious smile rivaled that of the Mona Lisa. Non- Ex: The Mona Lisa can be viewed in Paris.

Onomatopoeia Words whose sounds suggest their meaning. Tip: Animal noises are often examples (Oink, Moo, Quack, etc.) Ex: The door slowly creaked open and then slammed shut! Non-Ex: “Hello!” I screamed into the empty house.

What would this be? I was just guessing, at numbers and figures Pulling your puzzles apart Questions of science, science and progress Do not speak as loud as my heart

What would this be? As the winter winds Litter London with lonely hearts Oh, the warmth of your eyes Swept me into your arms

What would this be? Help, I’m alive My heart keeps beating like a hammer Hard to be soft, tough to be tender

Boom, boom, boom Even brighter than the Moon, moon, moon What would this be? Boom, boom, boom Even brighter than the Moon, moon, moon

What would this be? You were Romeo You were throwin’ pebbles And my daddy said, “Stay away from Juliet!”

What would this be? I am not your rolling wheels I am the highway I am not your carpet ride I am the sky

What would this be? Been there, done that, messed around I’m having fun, don’t put me down I’ll never let you sweep my off my feet This time, baby, I’ll be bulletproof

What would this be? I know we got it good But they got it made And the grass is getting greener each day