Figurative Language 8 Main Types Simile Hyperbole Metaphor

Figurative Language

8 Main Types • • Simile Hyperbole Metaphor Personification Symbolism Imagery Idiom Alliteration

Simile • A figure of speech that compares two different things and their similarities. • “Like” or “As” • Example: John is as slow as a snail. • Example 2: They fought like cats and dogs.

Hyperbole • A figure of speech involving an exaggeration of ideas for emphasis. • Example: Your suitcase weighs a ton. • Example 2: She cried so long she made a lake.

Metaphor • A figure of speech which makes an implicit, implied or hidden comparison between two things that are unrelated but share some common characteristics. • Example: My brother was boiling mad. • Example 2: Her heart is made of gold.

Personification • A figure of speech in which a thing, an idea or an animal is given human attributes. • Example: The wind whistled throughout the day. • Example 2: The fire swallowed the entire forest.

Symbolism • The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings. • Example: The dove is a symbol of peace. • Example 2: Life is a roller coaster.

Imagery • Represents objects, actions and ideas in such a way that it appeals to our physical senses. • Example: The big, juicy hamburger was delicious.

Idiom • To set an expression or phrase comparing two or more words. • Example: I've been on cloud 9 all day. • Example 2: That’s a piece of cake.

Alliteration • A figure of speech where words that have the same first constant sound, occur close together. • Example: A big bully beats a baby boy. • Example: She sells seashells by the sea.