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Figurative language is language that is used in ways that differ from the literal
connotations and definitions of individual words or phrases. Figurative language is used to imply concepts and
meanings that are more complicated than those that can be conveyed with literal language.
There are many different methods, called figurative devices or literary devices, by which figurative language can be
used. These are very often found in literature, and identifying figurative language is an integral part of literary
analysis. Furthermore, being familiar with figurative language and figurative devices is important for writing as
well as reading. This list of figurative devices will introduce you to figurative language.
Figurative Language
1. Imagery Imagery is broadly defined, usually in terms of writing, as the descriptive language used by an author
to provide an image in the readers mind, appealing to one of the five senses. Imagery is the use of any descriptive
words or phrases that result in a clearer mental picture of the person, place, thing, or situation being described. Many
other figurative language devices can qualify as imagery.
Examples:
Forgive me; they were delicious, so sweet and so cold.
The scream reverberated through the silence of the neighborhood.
The jewels, emeralds, sapphires, rubies, sparkled at her throat.
She was overwhelmed by the sweet smell of the cookies when she walked in.
Getting into the bed was like crawling onto a soft, fluffy cloud.
2. Simile A simile is a comparison of two things that are not necessarily alike, using connecting a word to link the
comparison. The connecting word is most commonly like or as. Similes are usually used to make a description
more vivid or memorable, or to establish a certain characteristic of the thing being described.
Examples:
He was courageous as a lion.
Her beauty is like a rose.
Seeing this play is like watching paint dry.
Examples:
The movie was a tragic comedy.
They found original copies of the book in the basement.
His mother was awfully nice.
There was a minor crisis at work earlier today.
She gave her friend the bigger half of the sandwich.
9. Allusion An allusion is a reference to a widely known person, place, or event. The subject of an allusion is
referred to rather than explained in detail. The purpose of an allusion is often to clarify an idea or concept by
referencing another idea that is universally recognized and understood.
Examples:
He thinks hes such an Einstein anytime he answers a question correctly.
I didnt realize that by starting the conversation I had opened Pandoras box.
She would talk about almost anything, but this subject was her Achilles heel.
The backyard was so beautiful and peaceful that it felt like the Garden of Eden.
My mother was being a real Scrooge during the holidays.
10. Idiom An idiom is a phrase or group of words that have a figurative meaning that differs from their literal
meanings, and are understood by many due to common usage and repetition. Idioms exist in all languages, but
usually cannot be understood based on the literal definitions of the words involved. Idioms are used in writing to
convey a particular meaning or sentiment in a unique way.
Examples:
Break a leg! I said to him before the show.
She really let the cat out of the bag when she revealed the secret plans.
The exam was challenging for some, but for others it was a piece of cake.
The story was so absurd that I was sure he was pulling my leg.
I told them to keep an eye out for the missing dog.
11. Pun A pun is a joke or phrase that takes advantage of words that have multiple definitions. Puns are almost
always used for comic purposes.
Examples:
He was having trouble remembering how to fasten the seatbelt, but then it clicked.
She couldnt recall how to throw a boomerang, but it came back to her.
The vegetarian said theyd met, but hed never seen herbivore.
The scarecrow was promoted for being out standing in his field.
I was hit with a can of soda, but I was okay, because it was a soft drink.
Learning More
Now that youre familiar with some figurative language devices, you can put them to use in your own speech or
writing, and become better at identifying them when you read or hear them. A basic understanding of figurative
language, including those devices on this list and many more, and how it is used will improve the
way you write, the way you speak, and the way you interpret written and spoken words.
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