1. Figurative and Literal Language

2. Literal Language
Figurative Language
You say exactly what you mean.
Example: That outfit is horrible.
You don’t say exactly what you mean.
The reader has to infer the meaning.
Example: I would have never thought of putting that outfit together.

3. Denotation
Connotation
the dictionary definition of a word
The thoughts, feelings, and emotions a person associates with a word

4. Personification Giving human characteristics to nonhuman things
Example:
Angry flood waters slapped the house.

5. Simile Compare two unlike things using “like” or “as” Examples:
Her eyes were as bright as stars.
The toddler was like a demolition derby.

6. Metaphor Compare two unlike things without using “like” or “as”
Examples:
Her eyes were sparkling emeralds.
He’s a lion when he fights.

7. Hyperbole
An exaggeration so dramatic that no one can believe it; overstatement to emphasize a point
Examples:
This bag weighs a ton.
I told you a million times.

8. Onomatopeia A word that imitates a natural sound Examples: Buzz Boom
Hiss Zoom
Pop Pow

9. Alliteration
The repetition of the same letter or sound, especially consonant sounds, at the beginning of words.
Example:
Miss Warren worried while waiting with Wendy.
Ferrets phone on Fridays for falafel.

10. Oxymoron
Words or phrases in which contradictory or opposite terms are used together
Examples:
Jumbo shrimp
Climb down
Act natural

11. Allusion
A reference to a person, place, or event from history, literature, sports, movies or the arts
Example:
Dad turns into Scrooge every year around Christmas.

12. Idiom
a group of words whose collective meaning can not be taken literally
Examples:
Sharon stayed home because she is under the weather today.
I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.