Figurative Language

Figurative language or speech contains images. The writer or speaker describes something through the use of unusual comparisons for effect, interest, and to make things clearer. The result is the creation of interesting images.

Simile A simile is a figure of speech that compares unlike things as a description. Similes do not state that something is another thing. Instead, they compare using the word "like" or "as."

Examples of Similes The dog was as big as a horse. Her coat looked like a trampled, wet paper bag. He was as tired as if he'd been digging ditches all day.

Metaphor A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares unlike things by saying that one thing is the other. Often metaphors are simple comparisons. But, they can be extended, so different aspects of the things compared are treated separately.

Examples of Metaphors He was a fierce bull ready to attack. She is a flower among women.

Personification Personification is a figure of speech in which human qualities are attributed to an animal, object, or idea. Think: personification = give “people qualities” to non-persons

Examples of Personification The video camera watched the whole scene. During the blizzard, the car engine coughed and sputtered, but would not start.

Hyperbole A hyperbole is an exaggeration or overstatement for effect. Think: hyper = over

Examples of a Hyperbole The man was as wide as a mountain and twice as tall. (Note that this sentence is also a simile.) I almost died laughing listening to that comedian. This book weighs a ton. I am absolutely starving!

Alliteration Alliteration is repeating the beginning sound of words in a sentence. Usually at least three words must begin with the same sound (Examples: tongue twisters).

Examples of Alliteration Lisa loves lemon lollipops. She sells seashells by the seashore. The bee buzzed by Bobby. Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.

Onomatopoeia Onomatopoeia is the use of a word to represent a sound

Examples of Onomatopoeia “BOOM!” went the firecracker. The big machine bonked, and klonked, and berked, and jerked. “Waaaah,” cried Sally’s new baby sister.