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Figurative Language – Definition and Examples

• 3-minute read
• 13th April 2023

In this article, you’ll learn about figurative language: what it is, how to use it, and lots of examples to inspire your everyday speech and descriptive writing .

What is Figurative Language?

Figurative language is language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It is often used to create imagery, evoke emotion, or emphasize a point in a way that literal language cannot. Think of it as painting a picture with words in the minds of your audience – for example, “She was as light as a feather while dancing.”

5 Types of Figurative Language

Below, we’ll look at five types of figurative language – metaphor, idiom, simile, hyperbole, and personification – that you can use in an essay, poem , speech, or conversation.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two things by stating that one thing is another, without using “like” or “as.” Metaphors are used to create imagery, evoke emotions, and help readers or listeners to understand an idea or concept in a new and interesting way.

Here are some examples of metaphors:

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. Idioms are often used in informal or conversational language to add color or humor.

Here are some examples of idioms:

If you want to include idioms in your everyday speech or writing, make sure you fully understand the figurative meaning before using them. If used incorrectly, they can cause confusion for your audience.

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using “like” or “as.” They are a great writing technique to create vivid imagery and a memorable comparison.

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Here are some examples of similes:

Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggeration for emphasis or effect. It is mostly used to emphasize a point in a funny or memorable way. Hyperbole is great to use in everyday language or writing, but it’s important to use it in moderation – otherwise, it can come across as insincere or unbelievable.

Here are some examples of hyperbole:

Personification

Personification is a figure of speech in which an inanimate object or animal is given human-like qualities or characteristics. This technique is mostly used in poetry or descriptive writing to create vivid imagery.

Here are some examples of personification:

Figurative language is a great addition to your everyday speech and is frequently used in literature and poetry. It can add depth and richness to language, making it more interesting and expressive. However, it can also be confusing if the reader or listener does not understand the intended meaning of the figurative language. Therefore, it is important to have a basic understanding of figurative language in order to fully appreciate and understand written and spoken communication.

Interested in learning more about how use descriptive language and vivid imagery? Check out our Writing Tips blog to learn more.

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Figurative Language

Figurative Language Definition

What is figurative language? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Figurative language is language that contains or uses figures of speech . When people use the term "figurative language," however, they often do so in a slightly narrower way. In this narrower definition, figurative language refers to language that uses words in ways that deviate from their literal interpretation to achieve a more complex or powerful effect. This view of figurative language focuses on the use of figures of speech that play with the meaning of words, such as metaphor , simile , personification , and hyperbole .

Some additional key details about figurative language:

• Figurative language is common in all sorts of writing, as well as in spoken language.
• Figurative language refers to language that contains figures of speech, while figures of speech are the particular techniques. If figurative speech is like a dance routine, figures of speech are like the various moves that make up the routine.
• It's a common misconception that imagery, or vivid descriptive language, is a kind of figurative language. In fact, writers can use figurative language as one tool to help create imagery, but imagery does not have to use figurative language.

Figurative Language Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce figurative language: fig -yer-uh-tiv lang -gwij

Figures of Speech and Figurative Language

To fully understand figurative language, it's helpful to have a basic understanding of figures of speech. More specifically, it's helpful to understand the two main types of figures of speech: tropes and schemes .

• Tropes are figures of speech that play with and shift the expected and literal meaning of words.
• Schemes are figures of speech that involve a change from the typical mechanics of a sentence, such as the order, pattern, or arrangement of words.

Put even more simply: tropes play with the meaning of words, while schemes play with the structure of words, phrases, and sentences.

The Different Things People Mean When They Say Figurative Language

When people say figurative language, they don't always mean the precise same thing. Here are the three different ways people usually talk about figurative language:

• Dictionary definition of figurative language: According to the dictionary, figurative language is simply any language that contains or uses figures of speech. This definition would mean that figurative language includes the use of both tropes and schemes.
• Much more common real world use of figurative language: However, when people (including teachers) refer to figurative language, they usually mean language that plays with the literal meaning of words. This definition sees figurative language as language that primarily involves the use of tropes.
• Another common real world use of figurative language: Some people define figurative language as including figures of speech that play with meaning as well as a few other common schemes that affect the rhythm and sound of text, such as alliteration and assonance .

What does all that boil down to for you? If you hear someone talking about figurative language, you can usually safely assume they are referring to language that uses figures of speech to play with the meaning of words and, perhaps, with the way that language sounds or feels.

Common Types of Figurative Language

There are many, many types of figures of speech that can be involved in figurative language. Some of the most common are:

• Metaphor : A figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unrelated things by stating that one thing is another thing, even though this isn't literally true. For example, the phrase "her lips are a blooming rose" obviously doesn't literally mean what it says—it's a metaphor that makes a comparison between the red beauty and promise of a blooming rose with that of the lips of the woman being described.
• Simile : A simile, like a metaphor, makes a comparison between two unrelated things. However, instead of stating that one thing is another thing (as in metaphor), a simile states that one thing is like another thing. An example of a simile would be to say "they fought like cats and dogs."
• Oxymoron : An oxymoron pairs contradictory words in order to express new or complex meanings. In the phrase "parting is such sweet sorrow" from Romeo and Juliet , "sweet sorrow" is an oxymoron that captures the complex and simultaneous feelings of pain and pleasure associated with passionate love.
• Hyperbole : Hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration of the truth, used to emphasize the importance of something or to create a comic effect. An example of a hyperbole is to say that a backpack "weighs a ton." No backpack literally weighs a ton, but to say "my backpack weighs ten pounds" doesn't effectively communicate how burdensome a heavy backpack feels.
• Personification : In personification, non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down on the wedding guests, indifferent to their plans." Describing the rain as "indifferent" is an example of personification, because rain can't be "indifferent," nor can it feel any other human emotion.
• Idiom : An idiom is a phrase that, through general usage within a particular group or society, has gained a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. The phrase "it's raining cats and dogs" is known to most Americans to mean that it's raining hard, but an English-speaking foreigner in the United States might find the phrase totally confusing.
• Onomatopoeia : Onomatopoeia is a figure of speech in which words evoke the actual sound of the thing they refer to or describe. The “boom” of a firework exploding, the “tick tock” of a clock, and the “ding dong” of a doorbell are all examples of onomatopoeia.
• Synecdoche : In synecdoche, a part of something is used to refer to its whole . For example, "The captain commands one hundred sails" is a synecdoche that uses "sails" to refer to ships—ships being the thing of which a sail is a part.
• Metonymy : Metonymy is a figure of speech in which an object or concept is referred to not by its own name, but instead by the name of something closely associated with it. For example, in "Wall Street prefers lower taxes," the New York City street that was the original home of the New York Stock Exchange stands in for (or is a "metonym" for) the entire American financial industry.
• Alliteration : In alliteration, the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “ b ” sound in: “ B ob b rought the b ox of b ricks to the b asement.” Alliteration uses repetition to create a musical effect that helps phrases to stand out from the language around them.
• Assonance : The repetition of vowel sounds repeat in nearby words, such as the " ee " sound: "the squ ea ky wh ee l gets the gr ea se." Like alliteration, assonance uses repeated sounds to create a musical effect in which words echo one another.

Figurative Language vs. Imagery

Many people (and websites) argue that imagery is a type of figurative language. That is actually incorrect. Imagery refers to a writers use of vivid and descriptive language to appeal to the reader's senses and more deeply evoke places, things, emotions, and more. The following sentence uses imagery to give the reader a sense of how what is being described looks, feels, smells, and sounds:

The night was dark and humid, the scent of rotting vegetation hung in the air, and only the sound of mosquitoes broke the quiet of the swamp.

This sentence uses no figurative language. Every word means exactly what it says, and the sentence is still an example of the use of imagery. That said, imagery can use figurative language, often to powerful effect:

The night was dark and humid, heavy with a scent of rotting vegetation like a great-aunt's heavy and inescapable perfume, and only the whining buzz of mosquitoes broke the silence of the swamp.

In this sentence, the description has been made more powerful through the use of a simile ("like a great-aunt's..."), onomatopoeia ("whining buzz," which not only describes but actually sounds like the noise made by mosquitoes), and even a bit of alliteration in the " s ilence of the s wamp."

To sum up: imagery is not a form of figurative language. But a writer can enhance his or her effort to write imagery through the use of figurative language.

Figurative Language Examples

Figurative language is more interesting, lively, beautiful, and memorable than language that's purely literal. Figurative language is found in all sorts of writing, from poetry to prose to speeches to song lyrics, and is also a common part of spoken speech. The examples below show a variety of different types of figures of speech. You can see many more examples of each type at their own specific LitChart entries.

Figurative Language Example: Metaphor

Metaphor in shakespeare's romeo and juliet.

In Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet , Romeo uses the following metaphor in Act 2 Scene 2 of Romeo and Juliet , after sneaking into Juliet's garden and catching a glimpse of her on her balcony:

But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.

Romeo compares Juliet to the sun not only to describe how radiantly beautiful she is, but also to convey the full extent of her power over him. He's so taken with Juliet that her appearances and disappearances affect him like those of the sun. His life "revolves" around Juliet like the earth orbits the sun.

Figurative Language Example: Simile

In this example of a simile from Slaughterhouse-Five , Billy Pilgrim emerges from an underground slaughterhouse where he has been held prisoner by the Germans during the deadly World War II firebombing of Dresden:

It wasn't safe to come out of the shelter until noon the next day. When the Americans and their guards did come out, the sky was black with smoke. The sun was an angry little pinhead. Dresden was like the moon now , nothing but minerals. The stones were hot. Everybody else in the neighborhood was dead.

Vonnegut uses simile to compare the bombed city of Dresden to the moon in order to capture the totality of the devastation—the city is so lifeless that it is like the barren moon.

Figurative Language Example: Oxymoron

These lines from Chapter 7 of Ernest Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls describe an encounter between Robert Jordan, a young American soldier fighting in the Spanish Civil War, and his lover María.

She held herself tight to him and her lips looked for his and then found them and were against them and he felt her, fresh, new and smooth and young and lovely with the warm, scalding coolness and unbelievable to be there in the robe that was as familiar as his clothes, or his shoes, or his duty and then she said, frightenedly, “And now let us do quickly what it is we do so that the other is all gone.”

The couple's relationship becomes a bright spot for both of them in the midst of war, but ultimately also a source of pain and confusion for Jordan, as he struggles to balance his obligation to fight with his desire to live happily by Maria's side. The contradiction contained within the oxymoron "scalding coolness" emphasizes the couple's conflicting emotions and impossible situation.

Figurative Language Example: Hyperbole

Elizabeth Bennet, the most free-spirited character in Pride and Prejudice , refuses Mr. Darcy's first marriage proposal with a string of hyperbole :

From the very beginning, from the first moment I may almost say, of my acquaintance with you, your manners impressing me with the fullest belief of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others, were such as to form that ground-work of disapprobation, on which succeeding events have built so immoveable a dislike; and I had not known you a month before I felt that you were the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry.

Elizabeth's closing statement, that Darcy is the "last man in the world" whom she would ever marry, is an obvious hyperbole. It's hard to believe that Elizabeth would rather marry, say, an axe murderer or a diseased pirate than Mr. Darcy. Even beyond the obvious exaggeration, Austen's use of hyperbole in this exchange hints at the fact that Elizabeth's feelings for Darcy are more complicated than she admits, even to herself. Austen drops various hints throughout the beginning of the novel that Elizabeth feels something beyond mere dislike for Darcy. Taken together with these hints, Elizabeth's hyperbolic statements seem designed to convince not only Darcy, but also herself, that their relationship has no future.

Figurative Language Example: Personification

In Chapter 1 of The Scarlet Letter , Nathaniel Hawthorne describes a wild rose bush that grows in front of Salem's gloomy wooden jail:

But, on one side of the portal, and rooted almost at the threshold, was a wild rose-bush, covered, in this month of June, with its delicate gems, which might be imagined to offer their fragrance and fragile beauty to the prisoner as he went in, and to the condemned criminal as he came forth to his doom, in token that the deep heart of Nature could pity and be kind to him.

In the context of the novel's setting in 17th century Boston, this rose bush, which grows wild in front of an establishment dedicated to enforcing harsh puritan values, symbolizes those elements of human nature that cannot be repressed, no matter how strict a community's moral code may be: desire, fertility, and a love of beauty. By personifying the rosebush as "offering" its blossoms to reflect Nature's pity (Nature is also personified here as having a "heart"), Hawthorne turns the passive coincidence of the rosebush's location into an image of human nature actively resisting its constraints.

Figurative Language Example: Idiom

Figurative language example: onomatopoeia.

In Act 3, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's The Tempest , Caliban uses onomatopoeia to convey the noises of the island.

Be not afeard. The isle is full of noises, Sounds, and sweet airs that give delight and hurt not. Sometimes a thousand twangling instruments Will hum about mine ears, and sometime voices...

The use of onomatopoeia makes the audience feel the sounds on the island, rather than just have to take Caliban's word about there being noises.

Figurative Language Example: Synecdoche

In Act 4, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's Macbeth , an angry Macbeth kicks out a servant by saying:

Take thy face hence.

Here, "thy face" stands in for "you." Macbeth is simply telling the servant to leave, but his use of synecdoche makes the tone of his command more harsh and insulting because he uses synecdoche to treat the servant not as a person but as an object, a body part.

Figurative Language Example: Metonymy

In his song "Juicy," Notorious B.I.G. raps:

Now I'm in the limelight 'cause I rhyme tight

Here he's using "limelight" as a metonymy for fame (a "limelight" was a kind of spotlight used in old theaters, and so it came to be associated with the fame of being in the spotlight). Biggie's use of metonymy here also sets him up for a sweet rhyme.

Figurative Language Example: Alliteration

In his song "Rap God," Eminem shows his incredible lyrical dexterity by loading up the alliteration :

S o I wanna make sure, s omewhere in this chicken s cratch I S cribble and doodle enough rhymes T o maybe t ry t o help get s ome people through t ough t imes But I gotta k eep a few punchlines Just in c ase, ‘ c ause even you un s igned Rappers are hungry l ooking at me l ike it's l unchtime…

Why Do Writers Use Figurative Language?

The term figurative language refers to a whole host of different figures of speech, so it's difficult to provide a single definitive answer to why writers use figurative language. That said, writers use figurative language for a wide variety of reasons:

• Interest and beauty: Figurative language allows writes to express descriptions, ideas, and more in ways that are unique and beautiful.
• Complexity and power: Because figurative language can create meanings that go beyond the literal, it can capture complex ideas, feelings, descriptions, or truths that cause readers to see things in a new way, or more closely mirror the complex reality of the world.
• Visceral affect: Because figurative language can both impact the rhythm and sound of language, and also connect the abstract (say, love) with the concrete (say, a rose), it can help language make an almost physical impact on a reader.
• Humor: By allowing a writer to layer additional meanings over literal meanings, or even to imply intended meanings that are the opposite of the literal meaning, figurative language gives writers all sorts of options for creating humor in their writing.
• Realism: People speak and even think in terms of the sorts of comparisons that underlie so much figurative language. Rather than being flowery, figurative language allows writers to describe things in ways that match how people really think about them, and to create characters who themselves feel real.

In general, figurative language often makes writing feel at once more accessible and powerful, more colorful, surprising, and deep.

Other Helpful Figurative Language Resources

• The dictionary definition of figurative : Touches on figurative language, as well as some other meanings of the word.
• Figurative and Frost : Examples of figurative language in the context of the poetry of Robert Frost.
• Figurative YouTube : A video identifying various forms of figurative language from movies and television shows.
• Wikipedia on literal and figurative language : A bit technical, but with a good list of examples.

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Figurative Language: Meaning & Examples

Knowing what “figurative language” is and how to use it in your writing can take your writing from average to exceptional. Below, we’ll define “figurative language” and go over 10 different types.

What Does Figurative Language Mean?

Figurative language is an excellent tool you can use in writing that helps your audience better visualize and understand your message.

There are several different types including:

• Personification

What Is Figurative Language?

Figurative language are words or phrases that help readers engage with, visualize, and understand your writing. They do this by transcending the literal definition of words.

Every writer should familiarize themselves with figurative language. Why? Not only because it makes your writing sound nice, but also because it can play a major role in the effectiveness of the message you’re trying to get across.

There are different types of figurative language— some more useful than others depending on what you’re writing about. Below, we’ll go over 10 common types of figurative language .

Types of Figurative Language

Similes use the words “as” or “like” to explicitly highlight the similarities between two seemingly different things.

You’re sweet like candy.

2. Metaphors

Compared to similes, metaphors are implicit comparisons because they don’t use “as” or “like.”

Daniel is the light of my life.

There are many different types of metaphors , including standard, implied, mixed, extended, and conceptual metaphors.

An idiom is a phrase in which the meaning of the whole cannot be derived from the meaning of the parts.

There are plenty of fish in the sea.

A non-native English speaker might not deduce that this phrase means “there are numerous eligible people to date.”

4. Hyperboles

A hyperbole is an exaggerated statement that is used to emphasize something or add a desired effect. You’ve likely used a hyperbole if you’ve ever said something like:

I’m so tired that I’m going to sleep for the rest of time.

The example above is hyperbolic because there’s no way someone can literally sleep for the rest of time. However, it does help the audience understand how tired the writer (or speaker) is.

5. Oxymorons

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory words are put side by side.

In my unbiased opinion , the movie was terrible.

Unbiased opinion is an oxymoron because opinions are inherently biased. There are many reasons a writer might decide to include an oxymoron in their text, whether it be for comedic or dramatic effects.

Simply put, a pun is a humorous play on words that exploits the different meanings of a word.

Make like a tree and leave.

This pun makes use of leave as a verb, and the fact that a tree has leaves (plural noun). Puns are often added to a text to entertain readers.

7. Personification

Personification is when human qualities and abilities are figuratively applied to inanimate objects or abstractions.

Personification makes it easier to write about things that are usually challenging. It also makes your writing more engaging and tangible.

The last piece of the pie was calling my name.

Obviously, pie cannot call out someone's name. But personifying it is a creative way to let the audience know that the last piece of pie was tempting to you.

8. Allusion

An allusion is when a famous person, place, literary work, or event is implicitly referenced. For example:

Surrounded by the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, I could be forgiven for thinking I was in Eden.

The example above alluded to the biblical Garden of Eden.

Litotes is a type of ironic understatement that uses negative terms to express a positive statement.

It’s not uncommon for something like this to happen.

The use of not and uncommon together ends up meaning common. Litotes are used to emphasize the positive through the use of negatives. They also sometimes make your reader pause and reflect.

10. Synecdoche

Synecdoche is a type of figurative language in which a part of something is used to represent a whole (or vice-versa).

Did you see Jason’s new set of wheels ?

Here, wheels represents a car. A synecdoche can be useful when you want to keep your writing fluent or concise.

Experienced writers know when to employ figurative language in their writing. They also know which ones work best depending on the setting and context of the text.

Familiarizing yourself with these different types of figures of speech is an effective way of sharpening your writing skills.

If you want to take it a step further, you can also elevate your writing by using LanguageTool —a multilingual writing assistant that can check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. If that weren’t enough, it can also suggest stylistic improvements and help rephrase your sentences. Try it today.

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Figurative Language

Figurative language definition, types of figurative language, short examples of figurative language, examples of figurative language from literature, example #1: the base stealer (by robert francis).

Poised between going on and back, pulled Both ways taut like a tight-rope walker, Now bouncing tiptoe like a dropped ball, Or a kid skipping rope, come on, come on! … Taunts them, hovers like an ecstatic bird, He’s only flirting, crowd him, crowd him,

Example #2: I Know Why the Cage Bird Sings (By Maya Angelou)

But a BIRD that stalks down his narrow cage Can seldom see through his bars of rage His wings are clipped and his feet are tied The caged bird sings with a fearful trill … And his tune is heard on the distant hill for The caged bird sings of freedom.

The entire poem is rich with metaphor as a bird in a cage represents a group of people who are oppressed and cannot get freedom. The cage represents physical barriers, fear, addiction, or society; while the song of the bird represents true self yearning for something greater in life.

Example #3: She Sweeps with Many-Colored Brooms (By Emily Dickinson)

Personification.

She sweeps with many-colored Brooms And leaves the Shreds behind Oh Housewife in the Evening West Come back, and dust the Pond!

Dickinson uses personification of a housewife to describe the sunset in the very first line of this poem. She is using a sweeping housewife who does her daily work, likewise the rays of the setting sun sweep away beneath the horizon.

Example #4: The Raven (By Edgar Allen Poe)

Alliteration.

O nce upon a midnight dreary w hile I pondered w eak and w eary ; r are and r adiant maiden; And the s ilken s ad uncertain rustling of each purple curtain … D eep into that d arkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing, D oubting, d reaming d reams no mortal ever d ared to d ream before.

Poe uses alliteration by repeating the /w/ sound to emphasize the weariness of the narrator , and then /r/ and /s/ sounds in the second and third lines respectively. In the last two lines, the /d/ sound highlights the narrator’s hopelessness.

Example #5: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (By Samuel Taylor Coleridge)

Ah ! well a-day ! what evil looks Had I from old and young ! Instead of the cross , the Albatross About my neck was hung.

Example #6: The Bluest Eyes (By Toni Morrison)

Personification, consonance, and simile.

She ran down the street, the green knee socks making her legs look like wild dandelion of stems that had somehow lost their heads. The weight of her remark stunned us.

Example #7: The Week of Diana (By Maya Angelou)

Metaphor, consonance, personification.

“The dark lantern of world sadness has cast its shadow upon the land. We stumble into our misery on leaden feet.”

Example #8: The Negro Speaks of River (By Langston Hughes)

Consonance, simile.

“I’ve known rivers: I’ve known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins. My soul has grown deep like the rivers.”

This prince of the Harlem Renaissance has beautifully used a different type of consonance with the /l/ sound and a simile of “my soul.”

Example #9: Musée des Beaux Arts (By W. H. Auden)

Personification, consonance.

That even the dreadful martyrdom must run its course Anyhow in a corner, some untidy spot Where the dogs go on with their doggy W. H. Auden life and the torturer’s horse Scratches its innocent behind on a tree.

Function of Figurative Language

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How To Use Figurative Language To Enhance Your Writing

• What Is Figurative Language?
• Figurative Language Vs. Literary Devices
• Using Figurative Language
• Take The Quiz

In writing, we use a lot of different figures of speech. In your own writing, you have likely used a simile in a sentence such as It was as hot as the sun. Or perhaps you like creating clever puns such as She brought the planks of wood to the board meeting. Both of these popular types of wordplay are examples of figurative language . Not only is figurative language fun, but it can also really spice up your writing if used effectively. 

In this article, we will:

• explain what figurative language is
• give examples of different types of figurative language
• offer tips for using figurative language creatively

You probably use figurative language already, but learning a bit more about it will ensure that your metaphors, similes, puns, idioms, and hyperbole shine like diamonds . Without any further ado, let’s cut to the chase and learn all we can about figurative language.   

What is figurative language ?

Figurative language is language that uses creative wordplay, expressions, and figures of speech to mean something beyond the literal definition of words. 

Figurative language can be described as the opposite of literal language. When we use words literally, their meaning is usually the same as the meaning that appears in the dictionary. For example, the sentence I went to the grocery store literally means that you traveled to a place that sells food. 

When we use words figuratively, on the other hand, they mean something beyond the definitions of the words themselves. Often, we use figurative language to inspire colorful mental images or make our writing and speech more exciting. 

Let’s look at the sentence It was raining cats and dogs . If we read this sentence literally, it says that cats and dogs fell from the sky. If we recognize it as figurative language, we know that the sentence is actually saying that it was raining a lot. As you can see, figurative language requires us to go beyond the literal meanings of words to understand the intent behind them. 

Examples of figurative language

Figurative language includes many different figures of speech and types of wordplay. The following list gives some popular examples of figurative language but is not exhaustive.

A simile is “a figure of speech in which two unlike things are explicitly compared.” Typically, similes make comparisons using the word like or as .

Example: She ran as fast as lightning. 

2. metaphor

A metaphor is another form of comparison in which something is said to figuratively be something else.

Example: I am a sloth in the morning until I drink my coffee. 

Learning the difference between a metaphor and a simile can be a walk in the park and as easy as pie!

An idiom is an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its elements.

Example: You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs.

4. hyperbole

A hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration.

Example: The dish exploded into a million pieces.

Irony is the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning.

Example: I failed my exams and lost my wallet, so it has been a fantastic day so far. 

6. onomatopoeia

An onomatopoeia is a word that imitates the sound it refers to.

Example: The cymbals crashed, and the drums boomed.

A person is making a pun when they humorously use words with multiple meanings or words with similar sounds to create wordplay.

Example: The article on fishing lures made by secret societies looked interesting, but it turned out to be clique bait.

When they’re not formal and serious, words are perfect for playful linguistic shenanigans, antics, and amusement!

8. personification

Personification is the act of giving human elements to non-human things.

Example: The leaves danced gracefully in the wind.  

9. metonymy

Metonymy is when the name of something is replaced with something related to it.

Example: He loved music from the cradle (birth) to the grave (death).

10. synecdoche

Synecdoche is when a part of something is used to refer to a whole.

Example: She saw a lot of familiar faces at the party.

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Figurative language vs. literary devices

A literary device is an element, like a metaphor, that draws us into a story . Some consider literary devices to be the building blocks of literature. When used correctly and effectively, literary devices give writers a way to infuse their work with detail and hint at larger themes, ideas, and meaning.

Some forms of figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, are considered to be types of literary devices. However, common literary devices may make use of figurative language, literal language, or both to accomplish whatever goal an author has in mind. 

Elevate your writing by getting to know some of the most common types of literary devices.

For example, foreshadowing is a commonly used literary device. When establishing foreshadowing , an author may use actual events to hint at something that will happen later in a story. For example, a heroine may repeatedly see a black cat wandering around before she discovers that the evil sorcerer disguises himself as a black cat.  

Alternatively, a literary device such as symbolism may use figurative language to express meaning to a reader. For example, a group of knights in a story may wear clothing with lions on them, and the author may refer to them as lions in the narrative. In this case, the author is using symbolism; the knights are not literal lions. The author compares them to lions using figurative language in order to emphasize their courage, pride, and ferociousness. 

Often, figurative language and literary devices are used together by writers in order to draw readers in with clever and imaginative use of words, themes, and plots. 

How to use figurative language

Using figurative language in your writing is a great way to catch a reader’s attention and make your text more creative and exciting. However, there are some important tips to keep in mind when using figurative language. 

Arguably the most important part of figurative language is ensuring that your reader understands what you are saying. If you use an expression your reader doesn’t know or make a comparison that your reader doesn’t understand, you have unnecessarily made your writing worse. As a writer, you must always keep your audience in mind. So if you’re unsure who your audience is, it is best to stick to common expressions and make your wordplay easy to understand. 

For example:

❌ Confusing: The pickpocket was a hyena among oryx; it was like shooting fish in a bucket. 

✅ Better: The pickpocket was a wolf among sheep; it was like taking candy from a baby. 

The second example shows how to use figurative language effectively. It relies on common, well-known animals in a simple metaphor and also uses a common expression. Even if a reader hasn’t heard the expression like taking candy from a baby , it is pretty clear from the context that it is referring to easily committing a crime. 

Another thing to keep in mind before using figurative language is the type of writing you are doing. Specifically, are you engaging in formal writing or informal writing? Figurative language is more likely to be used in informal writing. While formal writing does usually allow for figurative language, it is often a lot more difficult to use figurative writing effectively in formal writing. 

In formal writing, lighthearted figurative language such as puns, hyperbole, and whimsical similes will often come across as distracting, unprofessional, and inappropriate. In formal settings, it is best to stick to serious uses of figurative language that don’t detract from the tone or professionalism of the writing. 

❌ Informal language: The senator had to get out while the getting was good because he knew his argument wasn’t going to cut the mustard. 

✅ More formal: The senator had to cut his losses because he knew his argument didn’t hold water. 

Think you’re one smart cookie? Take the quiz!

If you’re confident you’ve got a good grasp on figurative language, try blowing us out of the water, knocking our socks off, and showing us you’re quick as a whip by acing our figurative language quiz .

Give your writing even more of a leg up by learning some rhetorical devices.

Ways To Say

Synonym of the day

75+ Examples of Figurative Language

• Figurative Language
• Published on Oct 23, 2021

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Figurative language makes writing – and even speaking – more expressive and easier to understand. When done well, it lends style to your writing.

More resources on figurative language:

• What is figurative language? The resource covers how figurative language improves writing, dos and don’ts while writing figuratively, and more.
• Exercises on figurative language

(Note that key parts of each figure of speech have been underlined for you to easily follow them and that my comments accompanying examples are in square brackets.)

Examples of using different types of figurative language on a given topic

When writing on a topic, it’s convenient to first brainstorm and write variety of figures of speech on that topic, and then incorporate them in your piece. This is probably a better way to polish your figurative language. Here are multiple figures of speech on two topics. Give a try yourself first and see how many you can write.

1. Cold weather

Fetching grocery in the cold was a death sentence . [Metaphor]

The snowstorm left behind a thick blanket of snow in most parts of the state, government declaring emergency , people staying indoors , air traffic grounding , and power failing in some areas . [Metaphor/ Parallelism (absolute phrases)]

The predawn snowfall smothered our chances of having an outdoor game. [Personification/ Metaphor]

The cold wind pierced my bones. [Personification/ Metaphor]

Fetching grocery in the cold was like a death sentence . [Simile]

It was a frigid night, freezing blood in my veins . [Hyperbole/ Alliteration]

“When will the weather improve?” the old man moaned . [Onomatopoeia]

The dog yelped as the gust of cold wind struck his face. [Onomatopoeia]

2. Nervous while waiting for the result

My heart skipped few beats while waiting for the result. [Idiom]

My heart failed few times while waiting for the result. [Hyperbole/ Alliteration (2)]

In the moments before the result was declared, I was an undertrial moments away from the verdict . [Metaphor]

While waiting for the result, my heart requested me to take a stroll and stop thinking about the worst. [Personification/ Metaphor]

In the moments before the result was declared, I was like an undertrial moments away from the verdict . [Simile]

While waiting for the result, my heart pounded like a set of drums in a music event . [Onomatopoeia/ Simile]

Examples of each of 8 figurative languages

1. alliteration.

The dog sprinted across the field to fetch the ball.

The virulent virus has disrupted lives and deflated economies.

In these troubled times , travel has come down to a trickle .

The iguanas make deep dives in the ocean to feed on marine algae.

The shark surfaced to breathe.

The slow sloth inched up the tree trunk .

The business centre is buzzing with activity.

The deafening downpour has resulted in flash floods .

More resources on alliteration:

• More than 150 alliteration examples on 7 topics
• What is alliteration and how to write one?

2. Hyperbole

I felt as abandoned as a used Kleenex .

During probation period, I felt like a bug under the microscope .

The movie went on for what seemed like  an eternity .

The leaping catch by the fielder took my breath away .

Your decrepit furniture seems to be from Jurassic era .

My new shoes, little bit tight, are killing me.

Kids are so overloaded these days. Just look at their bags; they weigh a ton .

The food was so delicious that I almost ate my fingers .

More resources on hyperbole:

• More than 100 examples of hyperbole
• What is hyperbole and how to write one?

The scandal proved to be the final nail in the coffin of the mayor.

Some of the bank employees have been allegedly working hand in glove with business owners to sanction loans without proper due diligence.

I jumped the gun by sending the proposal to the client without first showing it to my manager.

I’ve made the request few times in the past, but it has always fallen on deaf ears .

The boss cut that arrogant guy to size in no time.

I spent two hours cooling my heels in the waiting room while the CFO was busy in a meeting.

I was left out in the cold in the annual promotions in the company.

The IP for our key technology has been leaked, and many in my team, including the manager, are under a cloud .

More resources on idiom:

• More than 200 idioms with meaning and use
• What are idioms and why non-natives should learn them?

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4. Metaphor

During the moments before the result was declared, I was a tax payer who had just received an audit notice from the IRA : extremely nervous.

My loans are a millstone around my neck , keeping me tied to my 9-to-5 job.

My night shift is a graveyard : not a soul in sight, complete silence, and an occasional howl from the street dogs.

Journalism is literature in hurry . Matthew Arnold

The world is a stage , but the play is badly cast. Oscar Wilde

Tears are the safety valve of the heart when too much pressure is laid on it . Albert Smith

Jonah Lomu, a rampaging bull with the ball , is widely recognized as one of the greatest of the game. [An appositive acting as a metaphor]

His fortress of a house was finally breached by the intelligence agencies. [Implied metaphor]

More resources on metaphor:

• More than 100 examples of metaphors
• Metaphor examples for kids
• What is metaphor and how to write one?

5. Onomatopoeia

Nervous, I babbled my way through the first few minutes of the interview.

Finding the sheep at her mercy, the witch cackled before waving her wand.

I caught my head on the door and howled in pain.

The car screeched to a stop.

I was taken aback by the dog’s snarl ; a moment earlier, he seemed so friendly.

I was chomping my chicken piece unconcerned by the reaction of others around.

Don’t slurp the soup! It’s bad manners.

The race car turned the curve and then vroomed on the home stretch.

More resources on onomatopoeia:

• Examples of 140+ onomatopoeic words (with meaning and use)
• What is onomatopoeia and its common errors?

6. Parallelism

Many accidents could be attributed to human errors, but faulty road design , absence of street lights , lack of dividers , and potholes on roads also contribute to such incidents. Source [Noun phrases in parallel]

Cheetah hunts impalas and rabbits , lives in coalition and singly , and communicates through variety of sounds . [Verb phrases in parallel]

Usain Bolt was quick off the blocks , fast in the middle , and exceptional at the finish . [Adjective phrases in parallel]

Located at the end of the street and protected by a sturdy fence , the house has had no occupants in nearly two years. [Past participial phrases in parallel]

Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant . Robert Louis Stevenson [Prepositional phrase in parallel]

Live in the sunshine , swim the sea , drink the wild air . Ralph Waldo Emerson [Clauses in parallel. Note that you don’t see a subject here because it’s an imperative sentence.]

Joe’s dress was better than that of Mac . [Parallelism when comparing]

Whether you think you can or you think you can’t , you’re right. Henry Ford [Parallelism with correlative conjunction]

More resources on parallelism:

• More than 80 examples of parallelism
• How to write parallel sentences that make writing impactful?

7. Personification

Covid-19 stalked continent after continent with no remorse.

My first novel got crucified .

Chocolate frog, a new species of frog found, has been shying away from mankind for time immemorial.

The kettle hissed and bellowed steam.

Saying they were last polished two weeks back, the shoes begged for a polish.

The lock shrieked in pain as I rattled the wrong key in it.

The carved pumpkin sat on the table, smiling and observing Halloween preparations.

The ball, after being hit hard, sailed over the boundary line and landed in the third tier of the stadium

More resources on personification:

• More than 180 examples of personification
• What is personification and how to write one step-by-step?

Investing in such junk bonds is like carrying water in a sieve .

I had grand dreams, but, when faced with reality, they went down, much like how Titanic went down after colliding with the iceberg .

The vagabond roamed the streets like a tin can swept by wind .

Playing polo is like trying to play golf during an earthquake . Sylvester Stallone

The hackers made off with millions of dollars from the bank, taking advantage of their lax security which was as strong as the one provided by our street dog drunk on a liter of beer .

Public speaking is as easy for me as putting toothpaste back in tube .

The seal couldn’t escape from the shark’s vice-like grip . [An adjective acting as simile]

His concern for building a career was no more than the concern of well-fed lions for the next meal . [Similes formed through comparison words other than like and as ]

More resources on simile:

• More than 120 examples of similes
• Simile examples for kids
• What is simile and how to write one?

Anil is the person behind this website. He writes on most aspects of English Language Skills. More about him here:

Encyclopedia

Writing with artificial intelligence, figurative language.

Figurative language refers to the use of words in nonliteral ways . For instance, writers, speakers, knowledge workers . . . use f igurative language to help people imagine something new. Metaphor can be a way to connect established ideas, known information , with new ideas, new information . Figurative language is the language of poetry and the arts. Learn to use figurative language to create vivid images in your reader’s mind that will not only give your writing a more distinctive style and make it more enjoyable to read but will also help make your argument more convincing. Learn to identify figurative language in your writing and the writing of others.

Table of Contents

What is Figurative Language?

I t’s

• Personification & Metaphor Examples : “Your government is working night and day to repel this virus, and we will succeed, just as this country has seen off every alien invader for the last thousand years” (Boris Johnson)
• to make their compositions more engaging and clearer .
• to project an appropriate voice , tone , persona
• an attribute of prose, a style of writing, that is common among poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers.

Types of Figurative Language

Personification.

Related Concepts:  Concrete, Sensory Writing ;  Description ;  Code Switching ;  Figurative Language ;  Given to New Contract ;  Register ;  Vague Language ;  Writer-Based Prose Style

What Does Figurative Language Matter?

“All the world’s a stage” —have you ever wondered why people remember and quote lines from Shakespeare so much?

One of the reasons is because he used figurative language very effectively in his writings .

You may have heard the term figurative language before, and perhaps when you heard it you were in a class analyzing novels or poetry. But it’s not just used in literature: you can employ it in your academic and workplace writing to great effect.

Figurative language adds color to your writing by taking your words and applying them to other, often unexpected, objects or concepts.

Writers, speakers, knowledge workers . . . use figurative language to make a text more clear , engaging, interesting, evocative. Because figurative language is more dramatic and visual than concrete, sensory language , it enables you to better arrest your reader’s attention and perhaps cause him/her/they to pause and think more about your assertions. 

When interpreting texts, metaphors , similes , and personification can help you better understand complex and abstract ideas because you are attaching these abstract ideas to an image or human role and in that way making it more concrete and understandable.

Figurative language can also just make your writing more pleasurable to read and consequently more likely to gain your reader’s thoughtful consideration.  We all like to be entertained, even in just little ways, and are more likely to pay attention to things that seek to interest us.

Figurative Language, Clarity & Readability

• Engage in rhetorical analysis . Practice rhetorical reasoning to ensure that the use of figurative language is appropriate for your rhetorical context . Some genres—especially genres of poetry and fiction—rely extensively whereas other genres reject the use of figurative language or call for sparase use figurative language. Thus, as always, you need to engage in rhetorical analysis in order to determine whether or not it’s appropriate to use figurative language.
• Make your metaphors and similes understandable (you want to interest and intrigue your reader!)
• Stay away from clichéd comparisons (what’s the point of using figurative language if you’re just going to recycle the same tired metaphors?)
• Avoid using too much figurative language (a little goes a long way).
• Figurative language can be used in any part of your text . 

Recommended Resources

Plain Language: Beyond a Movement .

Related Articles:

Recommended.

Academic Writing – How to Write for the Academic Community

Structured Revision – How to Revise Your Work

Professional Writing – How to Write for the Professional World

Credibility & Authority – How to Be Credible & Authoritative in Research, Speech & Writing

Citation Guide – Learn How to Cite Sources in Academic and Professional Writing

Page Design – How to Design Messages for Maximum Impact

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Featured Articles

Figurative Language for Students and Teachers

A Complete guide to figurative language for students and teachers.

WHAT IS FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE? A DEFINITION     

We most often associate figurative language with poetry , but we find figurative language widely used in many other contexts too. We find it in use in everything from fiction and folk music to drama and our daily speech.

The term figurative language refers to any use of language that goes beyond the literal meaning of the words themselves. In many instances, the phrase also refers to instances where the use of sounds, syntax, and word order deviates from what is considered the normal patterns of use. It is this definition that we will explore in this guide to uncover different figurative language types.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON TEACHING FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE

FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE  is like  “SPECIAL EFFECTS FOR AUTHORS.”  It is a powerful tool to create  VIVID IMAGERY  through words. This  HUGE UNIT  guides you through completely understanding  FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE .

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WHY DO WE USE FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE?

In both regards mentioned above, figurative language represents a sophisticated, creative use of language to convey meaning and mood, among other effects. It represents an essential tool in the writer’s toolbox.

These creative applications of language help readers visualize the writer’s intended meaning and establish atmosphere, rhythm, and other stylistic effects. The use of these literary devices creates an effective and beautiful way to communicate through the written and spoken word.

Using figurative language helps speak to a reader’s emotions, as well as articulate more abstract and complex concepts in a relatable way. How a writer uses figurative language in their work constitutes a significant element of their style.

T YPES OF FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE

Figurative language is a broad category that encompasses all types of figures of speech, including sound devices and imagery.

There are lots of different types of figures of speech , but broadly speaking, these can helpfully be divided into two groups: tropes and schemes .

This article will look at various examples of figures of speech within these two categories. We will define them, provide an example of how they are used, and provide a straightforward activity that requires minimal preparation and will allow students to practice these in class.

FIGURES OF SPEECH: TROPES AND SCHEMES

A trope is a figure of speech that uses words or phrases in a way in which the intended meaning extends beyond the literal meaning of the words used. Some of the most commonly used tropes include metaphor, simile, and personification. But there are many others. We will take a look at some of the main ones below.

Definition: This figure of speech uses exaggeration for emphasis or other specific effects such as humour, for example. As with other figures of speech, it is not meant to be taken literally by the audience or the reader – they are usually in on it. We often use hyperbole in our daily speech.

Hyperbole Examples

• “I’ve told you a million times to clean your room!” – This is a common exaggeration parents use and can relate to teenagers.
• “I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse!” – This is a humorous exaggeration often used to express extreme hunger.
• “I’ve been waiting in line forever!” – This is a typical exaggeration to express frustration with long waits.
• “I’m dying of boredom!” – This exaggeration expresses extreme boredom or lack of interest.
• “I have a ton of homework to do tonight! ” – This is an exaggeration used to express a large amount of work or a heavy workload.
• I could have died of embarrassment. This hyperbolic phrase is often used by teens and, younger people to emphasise their feelings of anxiety, shame or humiliation.

Hyperbole Writing Tips for Students and Teachers :

Do not overuse it: While hyperbole can be a powerful tool, using it too often can make writing seem over-the-top and unrealistic. Therefore, students should use hyperbole sparingly and only when it truly adds value to their writing.

Use Hyperbole in a creative and original manner: When using hyperbole, students should aim to be creative and original in their language. Instead of relying on tired cliches, they should try to come up with new and interesting ways to exaggerate their points.

Never use Hyperbole to deceive, Use it for impact: It’s important for students to remember that hyperbole should never be used to deceive or mislead readers. Instead, it should be used to make a point or to add emphasis to a particular idea. Using hyperbole responsibly, students can make their writing more interesting and engaging without sacrificing accuracy or integrity.

We have a complete guide to hyperbole in literature, which can be found here

Hyperbole Teaching Task: Give students a list of comparative adjectives. You can differentiate these according to the students’ ages and abilities. Challenge students to compose hyperbole based on each of these adjectives. Use the model phrase ‘ brighter than the sun ’ to get the ball rolling.

Definition: An idiom is a figurative use of language that cannot be understood from a literal understanding of the words alone. Idioms are a part of the language, and each language develops its own unique idioms over time. Idioms are similar to other figures of speech except that while most other figures of speech can be the original conceptions of the writer, idioms already exist within the language. Many of Shakespeare’s figures of speech have become crystallized in the language as the idioms of today.

Idiom Examples:

• “Break a leg” is a common idiom used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or test.
• “Hang out” is an idiom that describes spending time with friends or relaxing with them.
• “Throw shade” – This is a modern idiom used to describe making a rude or disrespectful comment about someone.
• “Bite the bullet” – This is an idiom that describes facing a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination.
• “Couch potato” is an idiom used to describe someone who spends a lot of time sitting on the couch, usually watching TV or playing video games.

Idiom Writing Tips for Students and Teachers

• Understand the meaning and context: Before using an idiom in your writing, understand its meaning and how it’s used in context. Misusing an idiom can be confusing or even change the meaning of what you’re trying to say.
• Know your audience: Some idioms may not be understood by all readers, particularly those who are not native speakers of your language or from different regions or cultures. Therefore, students should consider their audience when using idioms and avoid ones that may be unfamiliar or confusing.
• Use idioms sparingly: While idioms can add color and personality to writing, using too many can be distracting or overwhelming. Therefore, students should use idioms judiciously and only when they really add value to their writing. Additionally, they should try to use idioms that are appropriate for the tone and purpose of their writing.

Idiom Teaching Task: You can help students bridge the gap between their understanding of figures of speech and idioms through this activity. Provide students with a list of idioms on various themes. Discuss these and ensure they have a sense of their meaning. Challenge the students to compose their own figures of speech on each of these themes using the sample idiom as a starting point.

Definition: A metaphor makes a comparison between two unrelated things by stating one thing is the other thing. This is usually done by highlighting or suggesting a shared quality or characteristic between the two distinct elements.

Metaphor Examples:

• “Life is a rollercoaster” – This metaphor compares the ups and downs of life to the twists and turns of a rollercoaster ride.
• “Love is a battlefield” – This metaphor compares the challenges and difficulties of love to the struggles of a battlefield.
• “The world is a stage” – This metaphor compares the events of the world to a theatrical performance, where individuals play their parts and have their moment in the spotlight.
• “He’s a rockstar” – This metaphor compares a person’s popularity, success, or charisma to a famous rockstar.
• “School is a prison” – This metaphor compares the experience of going to school to being imprisoned or confined, highlighting the perceived lack of freedom and control that students may feel.

Metaphor Writing Tips for Students and Teachers:

• Originality always impresses: Students should strive to be creative and original when using metaphors. Instead of relying on cliches or overused metaphors, they should try to create unique and interesting comparisons that genuinely enhance their writing.
• Be Consistent: Once a metaphor is introduced in your writing, it should be used consistently throughout your work. This helps to reinforce the connection between the two things being compared and creates a more cohesive and impactful piece of writing.
• Avoid mixed metaphors: A mixed metaphor is when two or more metaphors are used in the same sentence or paragraph, resulting in a confusing or illogical comparison. Students should avoid mixed metaphors and ensure that their comparisons make sense and are consistent throughout their writing. An example of a mixed metaphor is “I smell a rat, but we’ll nip it in the bud.”

In this sentence, “smell a rat” is a metaphor that means to sense that something is wrong or suspicious, while “nip it in the bud” is a different metaphor that means to stop something before it becomes a bigger problem. The two metaphors, however, are contradictory – if you’ve already smelled a rat, it’s too late to nip it in the bud. This creates confusion for the reader and makes the sentence less effective.

Metaphor Teaching Task: Metaphors are commonly used in speech, poetry, plays, songs, and stories. To give your students practice identifying metaphors in a range of contexts, organize them into groups and provide them with a range of the types of reading materials listed above. Have students read and listen to these materials and identify examples of metaphor in each, compiling a list as they go.

Definition: Oxymorons combine two opposing elements into a single phrase or sentence. They can be used to create a range of effects, comedic, dramatic, or thought-provoking.

Oxymoron Examples

• “ Jumbo shrimp” – This oxymoron combines two opposite words to create a humorous and memorable phrase.
• “Pretty ugly” – This oxymoron combines two contradictory words to describe something unattractive or not aesthetically pleasing.
• “Silent scream” – This oxymoron combines two words that are opposite in meaning to describe a scream expressed without sound.
• “Awfully good” – This oxymoron combines two words that are contradictory in meaning to describe something that is both good and bad at the same time.
• “Virtual reality” – This oxymoron combines two words that are opposite in meaning to describe a simulated environment that feels real, but is not actually physical.

Oxymoron Writing Tips for Students and Teachers

• Use oxymorons with purpose : Oxymorons should be used with a specific purpose, whether to create a humorous effect or to add a sense of contrast or contradiction. Students should avoid using oxymorons just for the sake of using them, as this can detract from the impact of their writing.
• Don’t overdo oxymorons: While oxymorons can be effective, using too many in a piece of writing can make it seem contrived or gimmicky. Therefore, students should use oxymorons judiciously and only when they add value to their writing.
• Oxymorons must make sense: An oxymoron combines two words with opposite meanings. However, students should ensure that the combined words make sense and create a clear and compelling contrast. Using a nonsensical oxymoron can confuse readers and undermine the effectiveness of the writing.

Oxymoron Teaching Task: Oxymorons are very common in our daily speech, for example, ‘seriously funny’, ‘random order’, and ‘pretty ugly’. Organise the students into groups and challenge them to come up with as many other common examples as they can. As an extension exercise, ask the students to compose some original oxymorons too.

PERSONIFICATION:

Definition: Personification is a special metaphor where human actions or feelings are ascribed to a non-human thing. When we talk about something that isn’t human as if it was, then we are personifying it – that is, making it into a person. This figurative use of language is most commonly associated with poetry and literary fiction, but we can often find it in our daily speech too.

Personification Examples:

• “ The stars danced in the sky .” – This personifies the stars by giving them human-like dancing qualities, which creates a vivid and engaging image in the reader’s mind.
• “ The wind whispered secrets to the trees .” – This personifies the wind by giving it the ability to whisper secrets, which creates a sense of mystery and intrigue.
• “ The sun smiled down on us .” – This personifies the sun by giving it the ability to smile, which creates a warm and positive image in the reader’s mind.
• “ The car coughed and sputtered to life .” – This personifies the car by giving it the human-like quality of coughing and sputtering, which creates a sense of character and personality.
• “ The waves crashed angrily against the shore .” – This personifies the waves by giving them the human-like quality of anger, which creates a sense of drama and tension in the scene.

Personification Writing Tips for Students and Teachers

• Use personification to create vivid imagery: Personification is a great tool for creating vivid, memorable images in the reader’s mind. Students should aim to use personification to describe things in a way that helps the reader visualize them more clearly and engage with the text on a deeper level.
• Be creative and original: While there are some common examples of personification (such as giving inanimate objects human-like qualities), students should aim to be creative and come up with original ways to personify things in their writing. This can make their writing stand out and be more memorable.
• Use personification intentionally: Personification should be used intentionally and purposefully to enhance the meaning of the writing. Students should consider why they are personifying something and how it adds to the overall effect of their writing. Overuse of personification can be distracting and detract from the impact of the writing.

Personification Teaching Task: Organize the students into pairs. Instruct Partner 1 to compile a list of 10 nouns, these can be inanimate objects such as a pencil , a chair etc or natural phenomenon such as moon , stars , sun etc. Have Partner 2 compile a list of 10 verbs associated with the actions of human beings, for example laugh , tell , sing etc.  When both partners have completed their lists they can use their nouns and verbs to write their own personification sentences.

Definition: Similes make comparisons between two seemingly unrelated elements by using ‘like’ or ‘as’ to highlight a common quality or characteristic both things share. Similes make a comparison by suggesting a similarity between two things, rather than making a comparison by stating that one thing is something else – such as we find with metaphors.

Simile Examples:

• “ He runs as fast as a cheetah .” – This simile compares the speed of a person to that of a cheetah, which creates a vivid image in the reader’s mind.
• “ She sings like an angel .” – This simile compares the quality of a person’s singing to that of an angel, which creates a sense of beauty and grace.
• “ The water was as cold as ice .” – This simile compares the temperature of the water to that of ice, which creates a sense of discomfort and coldness.
• “ The room was as dark as night .” – This simile compares the level of darkness in a room to that of nighttime, which creates a sense of foreboding or danger.
• “ His heart pounded like a drum .” – This simile compares the sound of a person’s heartbeat to that of a drum, which creates a sense of urgency or excitement.

Simile Writing Tips for Students and Teachers

• Choose effective comparisons: A simile is only effective if it makes a clear comparison that enhances the reader’s understanding or emotional response to the text. Students should choose comparisons that are relevant, impactful, and easy to understand.
• Be creative: While some similes are commonly used, students should strive to be original and creative with their comparisons. Using unique or unexpected similes can make their writing more engaging and memorable.
• Use similes with purpose: Similes should be used purposefully and intentionally to add meaning or emotion to the text. Students should consider why they are using a simile and how it contributes to the overall effect of the writing. Using similes can make the writing seem contrived or formulaic, so students should use them sparingly and only when they add value to the text.

Simile Teaching Task: Begin this activity by asking students to compile a list of say 10 nouns and 10 adjectives. Challenge the students to form original similes utilising the nouns and the adjectives on their list to set up a simile comparison. For example, if they choose the noun cat and the adjective smart they must generate the final element to complete their simile, for example, The cat is as smart as a computer . They should do this until they have completed a simile for all items on their lists. Encourage them to strike a balance between the similes that use like to make the comparison and those that use as .

SYNECDOCHE:

Definition: This figure of speech most often occurs when a part of a thing is used to represent the whole of a thing. However, it can also occur when the whole of a thing is used to stand for a part of a thing. The first type is called microcosm and the second, macrocosm . This trope is better conveyed through illustration than explanation.

Synedoche Examples:

• “ I need to hit the books .” – In this phrase, the word “books” represents studying or academic work as a whole.
• “ All eyes were on him. ” – In this phrase, the word “eyes” is used to represent the attention or focus of a group of people.
• “ Check out my new wheels. ” – In this phrase, the word “wheels” represents a car or other vehicle as a whole.
• “ The team needs some fresh legs. ” – In this phrase, the words “fresh legs” represent new or rested players who can contribute to the team’s success.
• “ Can you give me a hand? ” – In this phrase, the word “hand” represents physical help or general assistance.

Synedoche Writing Tips for Students and Teachers

• Use synecdoche purposefully : Synecdoche can be a powerful tool for creating memorable and impactful writing, but it should be used purposefully and with intention. Students should consider why they are using synecdoche and how it contributes to the overall meaning or effect of their writing.
• Choose practical parts to represent the whole: Synecdoche relies on a part of something to represent the whole. Students should choose relevant, recognizable, and effective parts conveying the larger concept or idea.
• Be clear and concise: Synecdoche can be confusing if not used clearly and concisely. Students should be careful to explain the larger concept or idea that is being represented by the part, and avoid using too many synecdochical phrases in a single piece of writing.

Synedoche Teaching Task: Organize students into groups and give out copies of old newspapers. Challenge the students to spot examples of synecdoche in the various articles and then highlight them. They may wish to use two separate colors for identifying the two different types mentioned above.

II. SCHEMES

Schemes are a figurative use of language that deviates from the usual mechanics of a sentence. This may be in terms of syntax, sound, or word order. Writers can use schemes to create rhythm, musicality, or to draw comparisons or contrasts within a text. They are particularly associated with poetry, as they often work on a rhythmic basis or through sound. Unlike tropes, schemes operate on a sense level more than an intellectual level.

ALLITERATION:

Definition: The repetition of the initial consonant sound of consecutive or near consecutive words for effect. Alliteration is also referred to as head rhyme or initial rhyme.

Alliteration Examples:

• “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.”
• “Sally sells seashells by the seashore.”
• “Billy the brave battled the big bad bear.”
• “The furious fireman fought the fiery flames.”
• “Dancing dolphins dive and dart through the deep blue sea.”

Task: Read some tongue twisters as a class and then challenge the students to produce their own examples.

Definition: The repetition of vowel sounds within a group of words. As with alliteration, the repeating sounds are important, not the letters.

Assonance Examples:

• “The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.”
• “The cat sat on the mat and licked its paws.”
• “The bright light might blind my sight.”
• “I like to ride my bike by the side of the lake.”
• “I feel the beat and move my feet to the rhythm of the music.”
• Fleet feet sweep by sleeping geese ” by Pink Floyd

Task: Assonance can be used to convey different moods. For example, repetition of long, broad ‘ o ’ and ‘ a ’ sounds can express sadness or melancholy. Challenge your students to write a line that uses assonance to express a selected mood.

CONSONANCE:

Definition: The repetition of consonant sounds anywhere in words near each other. This should be distinguished from alliteration, where the repetition is limited to the sounds at the beginning of words. Alliteration is a particular type of consonance, so all alliteration is a form of consonance, but not all consonance is alliteration.

Consonance Examples:

• “Mike likes his new bike.”
• “The pitter-patter of little feet.”
• “The big, bad wolf blew down the house.”
• “Silly Sally sold seashells by the seashore.”
• “The ship has sailed away to a distant bay.”
• “I’m sure she sells sea-shore shells”

Task: Give out a worksheet with a mix of unmarked examples of alliteration, consonance, and assonance and have the students sort them into the correct categories. You may want the students to use a Venn diagram so they can more easily categorize those that fit into more than one category.

ONOMATOPOEIA:

Definition: Onomatopoeia refers to words that sound like the thing they describe. Onomatopoeia is most commonly seen in poetry, where its use is a powerful tool for the imagination as it imitates the sounds of the things described. A typical example of onomatopoeia can be seen in the names of the sounds various animals make.

Onomatopoeia Examples:

• “Sizzle” – the sound of something frying or grilling.
• “Crash” – the sound of something breaking or smashing.
• “Buzz” – the sound of a bee or an electrical device.
• “Whoosh” – the sound of something rushing past quickly.
• “Thud” – the sound of something heavy falling or hitting a surface.
• “Pop” – the sound of something bursting or exploding.
• “Splat” – the sound of something hitting a surface and spreading out.
• “Chirp” – the sound of a bird or a cricket.
• “Boom” – the sound of an explosion or loud impact.
• “Slurp” – the sound of someone or something drinking or eating noisily.

Task: To get your students thinking about onomatopoeia, give them a theme and challenge them to list as many onomatopoeic words as they can around that theme. This can easily be differentiated for various age groups. For example, younger kids can work on animal sounds like those above, while older students can work on a theme like water (drip, splish, splosh, splash, plop etc). For stronger students, provide them with a theme and task them with creating their own related and original onomatopoeic words.

PARALLELISM:

Definition: This scheme is also known as a parallel structure and applies to sentences or phrases that employ an identical or very similar structure. Parallelism is often used to bring clarity and emphasis and create a memorable rhythm. Some of history’s most memorable speeches and statements used parallelism to great effect and have stayed with us for many decades. Neil Armstrong’s reported words on the moon landing and Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream speech being prime examples.

Parallelism Examples:

• “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
• “She likes to dance, to sing, and to act.”
• “He spent the day fishing, hiking, and exploring.”
• “The movie was action-packed, suspenseful, and thrilling.”
• “She is talented, funny, and kind-hearted.”
• That’s one small step for a man. One giant leap for mankind. ” by Neil Armstrong.

Task: Provide students with sample sentences that do not use a parallel structure within them. Challenge the students to rewrite the sentences to incorporate a parallel structure into the new sentences. For example, give the students the following sentence:

Do you prefer spicy chicken, pork, or salty fish for the main course?

Students should work to recognize that the underlying structure involves an adjective preceding two of the food options and should rewrite the sentence to include one for the pork. Answers will, of course, vary, but all are valid as long as they conform to the pattern. For example:

Do you prefer spicy chicken, sweet pork, or salty fish for the main course?

These are just some of the various ways language is commonly used figuratively. There are many more, though some of these can be rarely used. It’s best to start with these more common ones before moving on to some more complex literary devices available.

Spending some time working on figurative language in isolation will help students to understand how to use the various figures of speech in their own writing.

But, using them in a confident and unselfconscious manner will require lots of reinforcement throughout the school year.

While early attempts to weave them into their own writing may seem stilted and unnatural, with time and practice, they will become part of a student’s personal style and help enable them to articulate and express their thoughts artistically and coherently.

A COMPLETE FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE UNIT FOR STUDENTS

❤️The use of  FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE  is like  “SPECIAL EFFECTS FOR AUTHORS.”  It is a powerful tool to create  VIVID IMAGERY  through words. This  HUGE 110 PAGE UNIT  guides you through a complete understanding of  FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE  as both a  READER  and  WRITER covering.

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Glossary of literary terms

What is figurative language?

Figurative language refers to words or phrases that are meaningful, but not literally true. If you say “that news hit me like a ton of bricks,” you are using figurative language; listeners understand the news you got was deeply moving, and also know that you were not actually hit by 2000 pounds of bricks (because if you had been you would be dead). Similarly, if you say “he begged me to reconsider, but I had a heart of stone, and I refused,” you are also using figurative language; listeners understand that you are describing yourself as inflexible or unforgiving, and know that your heart is not actually made of stone (because if it were you would be dead).

This fellow is literally swimming in money

There are many ways to use figurative language. Here are some of the more common types, and examples of their use.

An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its separate words but that has a separate meaning of its own. Many (although not all) idioms are examples of figurative language.

“ Hold your horses ,” the teacher told the students as they were leaving school. (The teacher told the student to slow down, and did not mean that they should pick up their four-legged animals) He was up in the air about whether to go to the concert. (He was undecided, and was not suspended above the ground) The dog ate the muffins in a flash . (The dog ate the muffins quickly, and there was no sudden burst of light) The senator was renowned for throwing his colleagues under the bus in election season. (He was known for blaming others in order to gain an advantage, and was not actually pushing anyone under a moving vehicle)

Metaphors and similes are another category of figurative language use. A metaphor substitutes a word or phrase with one that makes an analogy or explanation with an image.

My desk had a mountain of paperwork on it. (There was no actual mountain, just a large amount of paper) My aunt is a walking encyclopedia , and everyone wanted her on their team on game night. (The aunt is a person with considerable knowledge, but is not actually a multi-volume set of books with legs) He sat quietly, letting her words  soak in . (This person is taking in information, but they are not actually soaking wet while doing so)

A simile is a phrase that uses the words  like  or  as  to describe someone or something by comparing it with someone or something else that is similar.

Fast as lightning , I picked up the paper and read it. (The paper was picked up very quickly; if the person picking it up had been as fast as lightning the paper would had been damaged) Traffic is moving as slow as molasses . (Traffic is moving very slowly, as molasses often does when one tries to pour it out) I am so tired I will sleep like a baby . (Saying you will sleep like a baby means you will sleep deeply, but we don’t know if that is how a baby will sleep; some babies sleep well, and others sleep poorly)

Figurative use of language also takes the form of extreme exaggeration, or hyperbole . This very often expresses an impossibility or near impossibility:

She literally was swimming in money. (The person described did not actually swim through a pool of currency, but merely had a lot of money) Tickets sold out at light speed. (The tickets sold very quickly; they did not move at 299,792,458 meters per second) The show went on forever. (The show lasted for a very long time)

Personification

Finally, if we give our words qualities or abilities that people have but that the things we are describing can’t logically possess, the result is a different kind of figurative language called personification .

We saw lights dance in the distance. (The lights are twinkling, but are not actually performing a waltz) The wind was howling all night. (The wind was making a noise, but was not using its vocal cords to cry out in grief) The words jumped off the page. (The words made a strong and immediate impression on the reader, but they remained in place on the page on which they had been printed)

In some cases it can be very simple to distinguish one type of figurative language from another: if you say ‘my love is like a flower’ you are using a simile, and if you say ‘my love is a flower’ you are using a metaphor. In other cases, however, you may not be able to easily say whether an example of figurative language is an idiom, hyperbole, or a metaphor (and it may be a combination of some or all of these things).

Using figurative language allows a writer to be both playful and to communicate information effectively to readers. It provides tools for a writer to paint a picture with words (the words are bringing images to the reader’s mind; we do not have groups of letters banding together and wielding paintbrushes and paint).

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Figurative Language: Definition, Examples and Different Types

We are going to look at figurative language. We will discuss what it is and how it can be used by looking at some examples. We will also look at the various different types of figurative language which are used in the English language.

Figurative Language Video by 7ESL

Figurative language is an essential aspect of expressive writing and communication, as it enables authors and speakers to convey their message through creative and imaginative means. Utilizing various literary devices such as similes, metaphors, personification, and onomatopoeia, figurative language allows for the enhancement of meaning and emotional impact in written and spoken communication. By employing these techniques, writers can create vivid imagery and connect with their audience on a deeper, more emotional level.

Figurative Language

Figurative Language Definition

Figurative language is a way of speaking or writing which is in a non-literal sense and is designed to have more of an impact on the subject it is referring to. It is used to add a more vivid or imaginative description of something, someone, or a situation.

When using figurative language, the speaker wishes to convey something in a way that is not usual in everyday language. It will have a more rhetorical meaning and may not seem to make sense until the listener understands the concept of figurative language.

When used in a literary sense, figurative language adds new layers to the meaning of the text and can create a more emotional, deep response for the reader.

Similes and metaphors are among the most common forms of figurative language. Similes are comparisons between two seemingly different things using the words “like” or “as,” while metaphors make similar comparisons without the use of these connectors. Personification occurs when human characteristics are attributed to non-human entities, whereas hyperbole refers to intentional exaggeration for emphasis or dramatic effect. Idioms, on the other hand, are commonly used expressions whose meanings differ from their literal definitions, often providing a unique cultural insight.

Types of Figurative Language

There are different types of figurative language. These forms of figurative language serve to engage readers, enrich the language, and breathe life into otherwise mundane expressions. By employing these diverse techniques, writers can evoke a wide range of emotions and reactions from their readers, ultimately enhancing the overall quality and depth of their work.

Let’s take a look at them.

A metaphor is a phrase describing something as something that is not in reality. It is used to compare two things symbolically. A metaphor literally describes something as something it is not. A good example of a metaphor would be ‘ Love is a battlefield .’

Another example, “ Her eyes were shining stars ” is a metaphor that compares a person’s eyes to stars, implying the brightness of the eyes.

A simile is a type of figurative language that is used to compare one thing against another. Similes compare the likeness of two things and often feature the words ‘like’ or ‘as’. An example of this would be ‘ her smile was as bright as the sun in the sky.’

Another example of a simile would be,  “ His face was as red as a tomato ,” which compares the redness of someone’s face to the color of a tomato.

A hyperbole is a figure of speech that exaggerates the meaning of a sentence. For example, you could say ‘ My granddad is as old as time. ‘

Another example of hyperbole would be, “ I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse .” Obviously, no one could actually eat a horse, but this statement conveys a sense of extreme hunger.

An idiom is a phrase that bears no literal meaning to the situation it is describing but it implies the facts or story behind it. For example, ‘ there is a silver lining in every cloud .’ This does not mean that there are silver linings inside clouds but it is referring to the fact that in a bad situation, good can always be found.

Idioms are often specific to a language, culture, or region and might not make sense when translated. Some more examples of idioms are “ break a leg ” (meaning “good luck”) and “ barking up the wrong tree ” (meaning “pursuing a mistaken or misguided course of action”).

Personification

Personification is a type of figurative language. It is used to give an inanimate object or item a sense of being alive. The speaker would talk to the object as if it could understand and was intelligent. This helps create a more vivid and relatable image for the reader.

For example, “ The wind whispered through the trees ” paints a picture of a gentle breeze by giving it the human action of whispering.

Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia is a form of figurative language in which words that are used to describe a sound actually resemble the sound they are referring to. These words can create sensory images and enhance the reader’s experience. Examples of onomatopoeia include “ buzz ” (to imitate the sound of a bee) and “ bang ” (to imitate the sound of a loud noise or explosion).

An oxymoron is a term that features two words that appear to contradict each other but make sense of the situation overall. This rhetorical device is often used for humor or to make a point. Examples include “jumbo shrimp,” “civil war,” and “deafening silence.”

Symbolism is another form of figurative language that is used to express an abstract idea using an item or words. For example, a red rose can symbolize love, while a black cat can symbolize bad luck or evil. Symbolism is often used to add depth and meaning to a story, poem, or other literary work.

Alliteration

Alliteration is a type of figurative speech in which the repetition of letters or sounds is used within one sentence. Examples include “ Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers ” and “ She sells seashells by the seashore .”

Puns are a form of figurative language that creates a play on words. They add an extra meaning to a subject and are often seen as a form of joke or to be humorous. Examples include “ Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana ” and “ A horse is a very stable animal. ”

A form of figurative speech is irony . This is when a statement made is directly contradictory to reality. It is also used to convey a style of sarcasm. There are several types of irony, including verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony.

Verbal irony occurs when a speaker says something but means the opposite. For example, if it’s raining outside and someone says, “ What a lovely day !” that would be verbal irony.

Situational irony occurs when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually happens. For example, if a fire station burns down, that would be situational irony.

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters do not. For example, if a character in a play is about to make a bad decision, and the audience knows it’s a bad decision but the character doesn’t, that would be dramatic irony.

A synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part of something represents the whole or the whole represents a part. It is used to emphasize specific aspects of an object or idea. For example, “wheels” may be used to represent a car, or “all hands on deck” implies that the whole crew is needed.

Metonymy is a figure of speech where an attribute or component of something is used to represent the whole thing. This is often used for symbolic or poetic purposes. Examples include referring to the government as “the White House” or the film industry as “Hollywood.”

Allusion refers to a figure of speech where the author makes a reference to another work, event, person, or idea, without directly mentioning it. This can help create deeper meaning and connections for the reader. Examples include referencing Shakespeare’s Hamlet with “To be or not to be” or referring to a historical event like the Titanic when describing a disaster.

Assonance is a figure of speech that involves the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words. This can help create a musical effect within the text. Examples include “ The rain in Spain stays mainly on the plain ” and “ The early bird catches the worm. ”

Litotes is a figure of speech that uses understatement or negative expressions to emphasize a point or create a positive effect. This rhetorical device often employs double negatives or contrasting statements. Examples include “ It’s not the worst idea in the world ” or “ I’m not unhappy with the results .”

A paradox is a figure of speech that presents a seemingly contradictory statement that, when considered more closely, may reveal a deeper truth. Examples include “ Less is more ” and “ The only constant is change .”

Anaphora is a figure of speech that uses the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of consecutive sentences, clauses, or lines. This repetition can help create emphasis and establish a rhythm in the text. Examples include Martin Luther King Jr.’s “ I Have a Dream ” speech and Charles Dickens’ opening lines in A Tale of Two Cities, “ It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. ”

When the above things are used in spoken English they can add an extra flair to a conversation that may otherwise have a less dramatic meaning. The speaker is able to more easily convey the depth, urgency, or importance of a matter by using one of these rhetorical devices . It is extremely common for native speakers to use these figures of speech without thinking about it and so they are often heard in conversation.

When used in written text such as fiction, poetry, song, or script literary devices such as onomatopoeia or alliteration can add a new layer and make a text more interesting to read. It can also be used to further describe the emotions of characters or situations within a literary piece which enables the reader to create a clearer picture in their mind of what the author is referring to.

Figurative Language: Function and Impact

Emphasis and understatement.

Figurative language functions as a powerful tool that allows writers to emphasize certain ideas and create understatement by using literary devices like idioms, metaphors, or hyperboles. By employing these devices, authors can direct the reader’s attention to significant aspects of the text, thereby reinforcing the overall theme or message. For example, an understatement like “It’s just a scratch,” when referring to a significant wound, can create a sense of irony or sarcasm, while emphasis through exaggeration can convey the intensity of a situation.

Imagery and Symbolism

Another essential function of figurative language is the creation of vivid imagery and symbolism. By using descriptive words and phrases, writers can paint a more detailed picture in the reader’s mind, making the scene or character more memorable. Imagery engages the reader’s senses, drawing them into the story and helping them forge a stronger connection with the text. Symbolism adds depth by attaching additional meanings to particular objects, characters, or situations, which may not be apparent through a literal interpretation.

Descriptive Words and Sensory Connection

Through the use of descriptive words , figurative language allows readers to establish a sensory connection with the text. By appealing to the reader’s sight, sound, touch, taste, or smell, authors can stimulate the reader’s imagination and evoke emotions. This sensory connection makes the text more relatable and engaging, fostering a stronger bond between the reader and the content.

For example, consider the following simile:

• Her voice was like a soft breeze rustling through the trees.

This figurative comparison elicits the image of a gentle wind, creating a calming atmosphere and establishing an auditory connection with the reader.

Literal Meaning and Literal Language

While figurative language is essential in creating emphasis, imagery, and sensory experiences, it exists alongside literal language in a balance that significantly impacts reader comprehension. Literal meaning provides a straightforward interpretation of words or phrases, whereas figurative language involves deliberate deviation from literal meaning to convey a deeper or more nuanced message. By skillfully navigating between the two, authors ensure that their intended meaning comes across clearly, while still maintaining the richness and subtlety afforded by figurative devices.

Figurative Language Examples

We are now going to take a look at some examples of the different types of figurative language which we have discussed. We will separate the examples into the different categories listed above to make it easier to see which one fits where.

Examples of Similes

Here are some examples of similes.

• As strong as an ox.
• As brave as a lion.
• As tall as a skyscraper.
• As hot as hell.
• As hard as nails.
• As light as a feather.
• As tough as old boots.
• As bright as a button.
• As shiny as a penny.
• As common as muck.
• As white as a sheet.
• As tall as a chimney.
• As bold as brass.
• As cool as a cucumber.
• As wet as water.
• As sweet as sugar.
• As pleased as punch.
• As slow as a sloth.

Examples of Metaphors

Here are some examples of metaphors.

• She was a shining star.
• A blanket of snow.
• She cried a river of tears.
• My mother-in-law is a dragon.
• The classroom was a zoo.
• She is a night owl.
• Steve is a couch potato.
• My husband is a pig
• She is an airhead.
• They were two peas in a pod.
• Life is a rollercoaster.
• Mary is ice cold.
• The lake was a mirror
• My brother is a monster.
• I have seven rug rats.

Examples of Oxymorons

Here are some examples of oxymorons

• Bittersweet
• Pretty ugly
• Alone together
• Act naturally
• Definitely maybe
• Clearly confused
• Farewell reception
• Deafening silence
• Jumbo shrimp
• Growing smaller
• Only choice
• Open secret
• Original copy
• Random order
• Sweet sorrow
• Walking dead
• Honest thief
• Quite incredible
• Old fashioned
• Deeply superficial

Examples of Hyperboles

Here are some examples of hyperboles.

• She ran faster than the wind.
• This bag weighs a tonne.
• You have enough food to feed the five thousand.
• That boy is as tall as a giraffe.
• My mom is going to kill me.
• She has a mile wide smile.
• This job is impossible.
• I am drowning in my sorrows.
• My holiday is never going to arrive.
• He is my guardian angel.
• The trees are dancing in the wind.
• You have a brain the size of a pea.
• I have told you a million times not to do that.
• I could eat a horse.
• I have a thousand and one things to do.

Examples of Idioms

Here are some examples of idioms.

• A picture paints a thousand words-which means that a picture can explain something better than many words could.
• Beauty is in the eye of the beholder-which means that beauty is seen differently according to who is looking.
• Add fuel to the fire = which means to make a situation worse by your action.
• As easy as pie-which means that something is very easy.
• Break the bank-which means to spend more money than you have.
• Get a kick out of it-which means that someone gets a thrill from something.
• We are in the same boat-which means that two people are in the same situation.
• A blessing in disguise-which refers to something that seems bad but actually turns out to be beneficial.
• A dime a dozen-which means that something is cheap.
• Beat around the bush – which means avoid getting straight to the point.
• A chip on the shoulder – which means that someone has a bad attitude.
• Cutting corners-which means missing out on parts of a job.
• Let someone off the hook – which means to let someone get away with a mistake or wrongdoing.
• Go back to the drawing board – which means to go back to making the initial plans.
• Rub someone up the wrong way-which means to annoy someone.
• Cross that bridge when we come to it-which means to face an issue when it arises.
• Wrap your head around something-which means to understand a complex issue.
• Break a leg-which means good luck.
• Sing your heart out-which means to sing well and a lot.
• Hit the hay-which means to go to bed.
• It takes two to tango-which means it takes two people to create a situation.
• Kill two birds with one stone-which means to complete two tasks by only doing one thing.

Examples of Personification

Here are some examples of how personification is used in sentences.

• Please work the phone, I need to make a call.
• Come on you stupid computer, why won’t you turn on?
• Help me find what I’m looking for dictionary, please.
• Where are you whisk? I need to start baking.
• Where are you hiding the pencil? I could have sworn I left you on the table.
• Why are you so heavy, suitcase?
• Come on car, why do you keep breaking down?
• Why don’t you last a long bar of chocolate?

Examples of S ymbolism

Here are some examples to show how symbolism can work in a sentence.

• The black death killed many people all those years ago.
• We had to put out a red alert.
• We desperately want to get on the property ladder.
• My son has been in hospital but he has been a lion.
• After our argument, I offered her an olive branch.
• The time after the war was dove-like.
• We had disputed long enough so I raised a white flag.
• He gave her a red rose to show how much he loved her.
• He is so wise that he rivals the owl.

Examples of Alliteration

Here are some examples of alliteration being used in a sentence.

• She sells seashells on the seashore.
• The horse’s hooves hobbled along the hillside.
• Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer ran around the road.
• Eagles end up eating entrails.
• Any aunts are appreciated.
• Fog filled the flora in the forest.

Examples of Onomatopoeia

Here are some examples of onomatopoeia being used in sentences.

• The horse neighed when I rode him.
• The sausages sizzled in the frying pan.
• My cough made a loud hacking sound.
• The ghost said boo.
• The wind whistled through the trees.
• The cat purred as he stroked it.
• The bird’s wings made a fluttering sound.
• The car zoomed past us on the road.
• The ball boinged up against the wall.
• The leaves rustled under my feet.
• The waterfall splashed into the canyon.
• The broken tap dripped all the time.
• In the jungle, you can hear the monkeys chatter.
• There was a bang which woke me from my sleep.
• The clock ticked quietly in the corner.
• The sound of the buzzing bees was prominent in the meadow.
• There was a huge metallic clang when I dropped the pan.
• I gasped in horror when I saw the car crash.
• I can hear the moo of the cows through the open window.
• The train chugged along the tracks.
• At night, you can hear the owls hooting outside.
• The frogs croaked loudly on the pond.
• It made a slapping sound as I hit the ground.
• My husband grunted when I told him that we were going to my parent’s for dinner.

Examples of Puns

Here are some examples of what a pun would sound like.

• An egg in the morning is hard to beat.
• A horse is a very stable animal.
• The opinion of an elephant carries a lot of weight.
• A good pun is its own reward.
• I bet someone a cut of beef the other day, he wouldn’t match me as he said the steaks were too high.
• Did you hear about the optician who made a spectacle of himself?
• The helpers of Santa are subordinate clauses.
• How do you communicate with a fish? You drop them a line.
• A cat ate some cheese and then he awaited the arrival of a mouse with bated breath.
• They have created a flea from scratch.
• What did the duck say to the barkeep? Put it on my bill.
• Black Beauty was a dark horse.
• I fixed my trousers at the library, that was a turn-up for the books.

Examples of Synecdoche

Another form of figurative language is synecdoche. This is when a whole is represented by a part or vice versa. Here are some examples of how synecdoche works in a sentence.

• At school, we learn our ABCs
• My little sister is currently learning her 123s.
• My sister always pays for her plastic when she goes shopping.
• I am getting my first set of wheels once I pass my driving test.
• He is going to ask for her hand.
• We need to put some wind in the sails.
• The employers needed a lot of hired hands to complete all the work that needed to be done.
• At the party, we cracked open the bubbly.
• the employed the boots out into the field.
• I enjoy tickling the ivories.
• He goes out to earn the bread.

Examples of Irony

Here are some examples of how irony is used in a sentence.

• When he stepped out into the thunderstorm, he exclaimed ‘What lovely we are having.’
• The irony of the situation was that the robbers targeted the police station.
• The marriage counselor ended up getting a divorce from her husband.
• I posted on Facebook about how bad Facebook is.
• He claims to be an animal rights activist but he wears a fur coat.
• The ambulance arrived at the heart attack patient but ended up running him over.
• She was a cobbler yet her children had no shoes.
• I won the lottery on my retirement day.

Examples of Figurative Language in Literature and Pop Culture

Figurative language is often used in literature to evoke strong emotions or create vivid imagery. Let’s examine some of the common types of figurative language, with examples from literature and pop culture.

Similes use the words “like” or “as” to compare two different things. In literature, they can be used to make descriptions more vivid and memorable. For example, in Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wind,” a simile is used to describe a character’s curiosity: “The very mystery of him excited her curiosity like a door that had neither lock nor key.”

Metaphors are a direct comparison between two different things without using the words “like” or “as.” These can be found in literature as well as in everyday language. For example, the famous line in Shakespeare’s “ Romeo and Juliet “: “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”

Allusions occur when a work references another text, person, place, or event. These references can be used to create connections between different works or to add depth to a story. An example of allusion can be found in the poem “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot, which has several references to classical literature, such as the myth of the Sibyl and the story of Tiresias.

Symbolism uses symbols to represent an idea or quality. This can be found in literature and various forms of pop culture. For example, in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter,” the letter “A” is a symbol representing Hester Prynne’s sin and her status as an adulterer. In pop culture, symbols can be found in movies, music, and artwork.

Figurative Language in Pop Culture

Figurative language is not limited to literature; it can also be found in music, television, movies, and other forms of popular culture. For example, in the song “Juicy” by Notorious B.I.G., the word “limelight” is used metaphorically to represent fame, as the line goes: “Now I’m in the limelight ’cause I rhyme tight.”

Another example would be in the movie “The Lion King,” where Mufasa’s spirit appearing in the clouds and telling Simba to “remember who you are” serves as a metaphor for remembering one’s roots and staying true to oneself.

Importance of Figurative Language

Career development.

Figurative language can enhance various aspects of an individual’s career. Professionals in fields such as marketing, advertising, and public relations use figurative language to create more compelling and persuasive content. For example, descriptive words, metaphors, and analogies can help explain complex ideas and engage the target audience. Additionally, understanding figurative language is essential in fields like finance and management; for instance, in the Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), management may use metaphors to explain complex concepts.

Communication Tool

Figurative language serves as a powerful communication tool, allowing speakers and writers to convey complex ideas, emotions, and experiences more effectively. Examples of figurative language include:

• Oxymorons, which express contradictory meanings to highlight a concept or idea
• Hyperbole, which involves exaggeration to emphasize a point or create a comedic effect
• Cliché, which refers to overused expressions that can help quickly communicate ideas

By using these devices, individuals can enrich their spoken and written communication, making it more engaging and relatable to the audience.

Writing Skills

Developing a strong grasp of figurative language can significantly improve one’s writing skills. It enables authors to create vivid imagery, strengthen arguments, and evoke emotions in readers. For example, using descriptive words, similes, and metaphors can make even mundane descriptions come to life, painting a more vibrant picture for the reader. In turn, this can lead to more engaging content, whether in the form of fiction, non-fiction, or professional writing.

Engaging and Conveying a Message

Figurative language plays a crucial role in helping writers and speakers engage their audience and convey their intended message. By tapping into emotions, figurative language can make complex or abstract concepts more accessible, enabling the audience to better understand and connect with the content. For instance, using analogies and metaphors helps frame challenging ideas in relatable terms, while personification allows readers or listeners to identify with non-human objects.

In summary, figurative language is an essential aspect of communication and writing that can aid in career development, serve as an effective communication tool, improve writing skills, and help engage audiences and convey messages. By mastering various figurative language devices, individuals can elevate their spoken and written communication, making it more dynamic and impactful.

To sum it up, figurative language is used to add impact and extra description in a non-literal sense to what you are saying. There are many ways in which you can do this and there are different types of figurative language for different types of situations.

FAQs on Figurative Language

What is figurative language?

Figurative language is a manner of expression that goes beyond the literal meaning of words to deliver a message or emphasize a point. It is often used in narrative writing to make emotional connections with the reader and to enrich the text with artistic or engaging elements.

What are some common types of figurative language?

There are several types of figurative language, with the most common ones being:

• Simile: A comparison between two unlike things using the words “like” or “as” (e.g., Her eyes shone like stars).
• Metaphor: A direct comparison between two, unlike things without using “like” or “as” (e.g., Time is a thief).
• Personification: Attributing human characteristics to nonhuman entities or objects to make them more relatable (e.g., The chair squealed in pain when the hammer smashed it).
• Hyperbole: Exaggeration for emphasis or effect (e.g., I could sleep for a year).
• Idiom: A common expression with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation of its words (e.g., Break a leg).

When should figurative language be used?

Figurative language should be used when the writer wants to create a strong emotional impact, evoke vivid images, or generate a memorable impression. It can be applied in poetry, prose, and various forms of writing, such as essays , novels, and short stories. However, it is crucial not to overuse figurative language, as it may cause confusion and detract from the clarity of the text.

How does figurative language enhance writing?

By deviating from the literal meaning of words, figurative language adds another layer of depth and richness to the writing, making it more engaging and enjoyable for readers. It helps provoke thought, create emotional connections, and bring abstract concepts to life. In addition, figurative language can introduce humor or irony, develop vivid imagery, and establish a distinct style or tone in the text.

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What is Figurative Language? | A Guide to Literary Terms

"what is figurative language" a guide for english students and teachers.

View the full series: The Oregon State Guide to English Literary Terms

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What is Figurative Language? Transcript (English and Spanish Subtitles Available in Video, Click HERE for Spanish Transcript)

By Peter Betjemann , Oregon State University Professor of American Literature and Former Chair

29 October 2019

In both literature and daily communication, many sentences contains figurative language. Figurative language makes meaning by asking the reader or listener to understand something (a "vehicle" ) by virtue of its relation to some other thing, action, or image (a "tenor" ). Figurative language can be contrasted with literal language, which describes something explicitly rather than by reference to something else.

Here’s a very basic example. Let’s say I want to describe how I took a rafting trip down an Oregon river. I could say “our raft bumped through Class IV rapids and I felt scared.” That’s a very literal way of describing my experience.

figurative_language_image.jpg

Or I could say “our raft bucked like wild bronco as we shot through walls of water, my heart jackhammering in my chest.” That’s a highly figurative and much more evocative way of characterizing the experience.

figurative_language_example.jpg

In the figurative version, I used a simile (“our raft bucked like a wild bronco”) and two metaphors (one: “we shot through walls of water” and two: my heart was “jackhammering” in my chest). You can find Oregon State videos that will teach you about simile and metaphor, as well as two additional kinds of figurative language that have complex names but that aren’t hard to understand, metonymy and synecdoche . I recommend that you watch all four videos together, as the similarities and differences between simile, metaphor, metonym, and synecdoche will give you a great overview of how figurative language works to characterize all kinds of vivid experiences.

Want to cite this?

MLA Citation: Betjemann, Peter. "What is Figurative Language?" Oregon State Guide to English Literary Terms, 29 Oct. 2019, Oregon State University, https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-figurative-language. Accessed [insert date].

Further Resources for Teachers

Other terms referenced in this video are explained in the following links.

"What is a Metaphor?"

"What is a Simile?"

"What is Metonymy?"

"What is a Synecdoche?"

"What is a Vehicle and a Tenor?"

A good type of story to explore these different kinds of figurative language is an allegory, in which two stories--a literal story and a figurative story--are superimposed upon one another. Consider the story "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne, which contains all four of these terms.

Writing Prompt: Identify at least one metaphor, simile, synecdoche, and metonym in Hawthorne's story. When you have finished making these assignments, identify the vehicle and tenor of each example of figurative language. Finally, write a brief explanation of how these vehicles and tenors work together (or, perhaps, against one another) to enable allegorical meanings to emerge in this story.

Interested in more video lessons? View the full series:

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Figurative Language

Ai generator.

We want to make our poems to be understood. We use literary jargon and figurative language to make this happen. There are a lot of ways to use figurative language and the most common way is in poetry. When you want your writing to pop, use figurative language.

What is Figurative Language?

Figurative language is a literary device that authors use to create vivid imagery, express complex ideas, and convey emotions in a more powerful and imaginative manner. It goes beyond the literal meaning of words to achieve a more compelling, deeper level of understanding or to add beauty or interest to the writing. Figurative language includes various forms, such as metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole, and idioms, among others.

Types of Figurative Language with Examples

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• Example: “Life is like a box of chocolates.”
• Example: “The world is a stage.”
• Example: “The wind whispered through the trees.”
• Example: “I’ve told you a million times.”
• Example: “It’s just a scratch,” for a large wound.
• Example: “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.”
• Example: “I rose and told him of my woe.”
• Example: “The bees buzzed.”
• Example: “Break a leg.”
• Example: “Deafening silence.”
• Example: “I am nobody.”
• Example: “Great! Another traffic jam.”
• Example: “A dove represents peace.”
• Example: “The pen is mightier than the sword.”
• Example: “All hands on deck.”
• Example: “I used to be a baker because I kneaded dough.”
• Example: “Passed away” instead of “died.”
• Example: “Every day, every night, in every way, I am getting better.”
• Example: “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.”
• Example: “She’s not unkind.”
• Example: “O death, where is thy sting?”
• Example: In many fables, animals speak and make decisions like humans.
• Example: “He fought like a lion.”
• Example: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”
• Example: “He caught a fish and a cold.”
• Example: “Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.”
• Example: “The man with the crown” instead of “the king.”
• Example: “Animal Farm” by George Orwell is an allegory for the Russian Revolution.
• Example: “The clash and clang of steel jarred him awake.”
• Example: “The ripple of the stream and the rustling of the leaves.”
• Example: “With eager feeding food doth choke the feeder.”
• Example: “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
• Example: “We have ships and men and money and stores.”
• Example: “Tasting of Flora and the country green, Dance, and Provencal song, and sunburnt mirth!”
• Example: “I will not mention the fact that I was late.”
• Example: “Free gift” – since gifts are by definition free

Purpose of Figurative Language

1. creates stronger imagery.

• Example: The metaphor “The classroom was a zoo” creates a vivid image of chaos and noise without stating it explicitly.

Figurative language, like similes and metaphors, helps create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind, making descriptions more engaging and memorable.

2. Conveys Emotions Effectively

• Example: The use of personification in “The wind whispered through the trees” suggests a serene and secretive atmosphere.

It allows writers to express complex emotions and mood in an indirect but powerful way, touching the reader’s emotions deeply.

3. Makes Writing More Persuasive

• Example: Hyperbole in advertising, such as “This car flies down the highway,” emphasizes the product’s speed and efficiency.

By exaggerating or emphasizing certain qualities, figurative language can make arguments and persuasive texts more compelling.

4. Engages the Reader’s Senses

• Example: Onomatopoeia in “The bees buzzed,” engages the reader’s hearing, adding a layer of realism to the description.

This sensory engagement helps readers experience the text more fully, as if they were witnessing the story first hand.

5. Enhances Symbolism

• Example: A metaphor like “Time is a thief” implies that time stealthily takes away our youth, opportunities, or happiness, introducing a symbolic layer to the text.

Figurative language often carries deeper meanings and themes, encouraging readers to think more critically about the text.

6. Facilitates Universal Connections

• Example: Similes and metaphors can make complex or abstract concepts more relatable by comparing them to common experiences.

This can bridge cultural and personal gaps, making the content more accessible to a wider audience.

7. Adds Humor and Wit

• Example: Puns and wordplay, such as “Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana,” add a layer of humor and cleverness to writing.

Figurative language can lighten the tone of a text, making it more enjoyable and engaging for the reader.

8. Encourages Creative Thinking

• Example: The metaphor “Life is a highway” encourages readers to consider the many paths and journeys life encompasses.

How to Use Figurative Language in Your Own Writing

Incorporating figurative language into your writing can elevate your prose, engage your readers more deeply, and convey your ideas in more vivid and imaginative ways. Here are practical points on how to effectively use figurative language in your writing:

1. Understand Different Types

Similes compare two things using “like” or “as” (e.g., “Her smile was as bright as the sun”). Metaphors make direct comparisons without using “like” or “as” (e.g., “Time is a thief”). Personification gives human characteristics to non-human things (e.g., “The wind howled in the night”). Hyperbole involves exaggerated statement (e.g., “I’ve told you a million times”). Onomatopoeia uses words that imitate sounds (e.g., “The bees buzzed”). Alliteration is the repetition of the same consonant words at the beginning of words (e.g., “She sells seashells by the seashore”). Assonance involves the repetition of vowel sounds within words (e.g., “The early bird catches the worm”). Irony conveys a meaning opposite to the literal meaning (e.g., saying “What a pleasant day” during a storm).

2. Use Sparingly

Avoid overloading your text with figurative language, as it can become confusing or overwhelming. Use it to enhance your writing, not overshadow it.

3. Match the Tone

Ensure the figurative language you choose fits the tone and style of your writing. For example, a serious essay might not be the best place for a playful pun.

4. Enhance Imagery and Emotion

Use metaphors, similes, and personification to create vivid imagery and evoke strong emotions in your readers.

5. Be Original

Strive for originality in your comparisons. Avoid clichés, as they can make your writing seem unoriginal or lazy.

6. Align with Your Message

Your chosen figurative language should reinforce your message or theme, not distract from it. Ensure there’s a clear connection to your main points.

7. Practice Creativity

Experiment with different forms of figurative language to discover what best enhances your writing style and voice.

8. Read and Analyze

Read widely and analyze how other authors use figurative language effectively. Notice what works and what doesn’t in various contexts.

9. Revise and Refine

Review your use of figurative language during the revision process. Sometimes, what seemed like a great metaphor at first might not fit as well upon reflection.

10. Solicit Feedback

Get feedback from others on your use of figurative language. What might be clear and vivid to you could be confusing or obscure to someone else.

Function of Figurative Language

Figurative language, an essential component of both written and spoken communication, serves several key functions in enriching text and speech. Here are some significant points outlining its function:

1. Enhances Imagery

• It creates vivid and powerful imagery in the reader’s mind, making descriptions more engaging and memorable. For example, saying “the fabric of the night” instead of “the darkness of the night” paints a more detailed picture.

2. Expresses Emotions

• Figurative language can convey complex emotions more effectively than straightforward descriptions, allowing writers to express feelings in a nuanced and impactful way.

3. Adds Depth to Writing

• By introducing symbolism and deeper meanings, it adds layers of interpretation to text, encouraging readers to think more critically and engage more deeply with the material.

4. Makes Writing More Engaging

• The use of figurative language can make texts more interesting and enjoyable to read, capturing the reader’s attention and holding it.

5. Facilitates Understanding

• Through analogies and metaphors, abstract or complex ideas can be explained in simpler, more relatable terms, making the content more accessible to a wider audience.

6. Conveys Tone and Atmosphere

• It plays a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere of a piece, helping to convey the author’s attitude towards the subject or the mood of the scene.

7. Encourages Creativity

• Both writers and readers benefit from the creative use of language, encouraging a more imaginative approach to thinking and writing.

8. Facilitates Persuasion

• In rhetoric and advertising, figurative language can be used to persuade more effectively, making arguments and propositions more compelling.

9. Builds Connections

• It helps build connections between unrelated concepts, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the text.

10. Adds Rhythmic Qualities

• Through devices like alliteration, assonance, and onomatopoeia, figurative language adds a musical quality to prose or poetry, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

2 Examples of Figurative Language in Literature and Poetry

1. metaphor in literature: “to kill a mockingbird” by harper lee.

• Example: “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy… but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”

In this metaphor from Harper Lee’s classic, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” mockingbirds are used to symbolize innocence and purity. The metaphor conveys the theme of the novel – the idea of harming something or someone innocent and the injustices of prejudice and racism. It’s a powerful use of figurative language that encapsulates one of the novel’s central messages.

2. Personification and Simile in Poetry: “Daffodils” by William Wordsworth

• Example: “I wandered lonely as a cloud / That floats on high o’er vales and hills, / When all at once I saw a crowd, / A host, of golden daffodils; / Beside the lake, beneath the trees, / Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.”

20+ Figurative Language Examples in Sentence

Is Figurative Language Hard?

Figurative language can be challenging for beginners as it involves understanding beyond the literal meanings of words. It requires recognizing and interpreting the deeper, symbolic meanings conveyed, which can be complex but becomes easier with practice and exposure.

What is Figurative Language in One Word?

Symbolism encapsulates the essence of figurative language in one word. It involves using symbols or indirect suggestions to express ideas and emotions, conveying meanings beyond the literal.

What is Figurative vs Language?

Figurative language uses creative, non-literal expressions to convey deeper meanings or add emphasis. In contrast, “language” refers to the system of communication in spoken or written form, encompassing both literal and figurative expressions.

What is Figurative Called?

Figurative language is often referred to as “figurative speech” or “figurative expression.” It encompasses various techniques like metaphors, similes, and personification to convey meaning in a nuanced and impactful way.

Why Do We Use Figurative Language?

We use figurative language to add depth, beauty, and effectiveness to our communication. It helps express complex ideas and emotions more vividly, making texts more engaging and memorable by invoking imagination and eliciting emotional responses.

How Do You Find Figurative Language?

To find figurative language, look for phrases that don’t have their usual, literal meaning. Key indicators include comparisons (like similes and metaphors), exaggerations (hyperbole), and attributing human qualities to non-human things (personification).

Is Repetition Figurative Language?

Repetition itself is not figurative language but a rhetorical device used to emphasize a point or idea. However, it can enhance the effect of figurative language by reinforcing the imagery or emotional impact of the expression

What is the difference between sarcasm and irony?

The difference between sarcasm and irony is, sarcasm is a form of irony that is intended to criticize or hurt someone. Irony is a figurative language, and it gives out the opposite of what is being said.

What are common types of figurative language?

Common types include metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole, and idioms, each serving to convey ideas in imaginative and impactful ways.

How can figurative language improve storytelling?

Figurative language enriches storytelling by creating vivid imagery, evoking emotions, and helping readers connect with characters and settings on a deeper level.

The beauty of reading stories with figurative language. Figurative language helps with making your speech, essays and even literary genres look pleasing to the person reading them. Using figurative language in daily conversations can also be beneficial. When you plan to write poems, speeches, or even stories, don’t forget to try and use figurative language to make a simple speech or essay into something better.

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Poems & Poets

Learning about Figurative Language

How to use simile and metaphor like a boss..

BY Rebecca Hazelton

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Just how is the sky like a patient etherized upon a table? If two roads diverged in a wood, why should I care?

Why can’t poets just say what they mean ? You’ve probably heard this before, either in the classroom or outside of it. Perhaps you’ve even said it yourself, after wrestling with a particularly difficult poem. It sounds like a simple request for clarity, but the question points out a number of assumptions about how we communicate, not just as poets but as people. It shows a preference for plain, matter-of-fact speech, and it suggests that all the figurative language poets are so fond of—metaphor, simile, and more—is just too frilly and flashy. But in real life, figurative language is everywhere, and we never say what we mean completely, because language often fails us. For instance, every time we try to tell people how much we love them—like, really really love them—the words seem woefully inadequate to the task. Not only that, we can sense they’ve been said before countless times by countless others. They aren’t really doing the job. We want to express our feelings as originally as possible, in order to give them the power in words that we feel in ourselves. And that’s where figurative language can help.

All that frill and flash that we often find in poetry is actually something you’re already quite experienced with. We constantly hear metaphors and similes in pop songs, and our everyday speech is peppered with figurative language. In fact, we are so dependent on it to express ourselves that someone who didn’t employ it would seem quite strange. Science fiction is full of characters who can’t or won’t engage with figurative language. Star Trek’s Mr. Spock and Data are both very literal speakers who serve to highlight the humanity of those around them. More recently, in the movie Guardians of the Galaxy , Drax the Destroyer has a little problem with metaphors; Rocket Raccoon says, “Metaphors go over his [Drax’s] head,” to which Drax replies, “ Nothing goes over my head! My reflexes are too fast; I would catch it.” This line gets a laugh because figurative language is so integral to how we communicate as humans. Without figurative language, we are robotic outsiders of human experience.

You use and understand figurative language constantly in your everyday conversation, without even thinking about it. For instance, if something terribly embarrassing happened to you, such as talking to your crush with a piece of spinach plastered to your front teeth, you might say to a friend, “I can’t even.” This is aposiopesis , a figure of speech where you deliberately leave your thought unfinished. You depend on your listener or reader to fill in the blanks. It’s a great way to show just how speechless you are. Your friend replies, “Yeah, you’re the most elegant,” which is an example of sarcasm : there’s a big gap between what he’s saying and what he means. “Not to mention everyone in school saw it, too,” continues your friend, who might be a jerk. This is paraleipsis ; your friend is feigning wanting to say nothing about your very public humiliation, and in doing so is drawing your attention to it. You sigh and cover your face with your hands, saying, “I died. I just died.” That’s hyperbole , which is when we exaggerate. Your friend, a recognizer of figurative language, knows you haven’t kicked the bucket (another figurative phrase!). These are only some of the ways we use figurative language in our everyday speech, and when you’re attuned to how pervasive it is, you’ll notice how difficult it can be to not use figurative language.

When we think of figurative language, we almost always think of metaphors and similes, so these are the two techniques we will focus on. They are the stars of figurative language. Both are comparisons, but a metaphor is more like an equation (“I’m a steamroller, baby”), whereas a simile uses “like” or “as” or “than” to create the connection (“rock you like a hurricane”). They are ultimately very similar, though to my mind, a metaphor asks more of a reader. Because a metaphor equates two dissimilar things (me, steamroller), it demands a leap of faith on the reader’s part. A simile, on the other hand, implicitly acknowledges that the comparison is not equal (I’m like a steamroller, but I’m not one, really). For this reason, a metaphor is just a touch riskier, and the payoff greater.

Metaphors and similes have two parts. There’s the tenor (the original subject we’re trying to describe) and the vehicle (the compared object we’re borrowing qualities from). So if we look at Robert Burns ’s poem “ A Red, Red Rose ,” we see “O my Luve is like a red, red rose.” Love would be the tenor (subject) and rose would be the vehicle (object). Metaphors and similes work only when they illuminate, that is, when they help us better understand or see something by way of comparison. They should feel both apt and surprising—a hard balance! If the tenor and the vehicle seem too similar, the comparison won’t be surprising or illuminating for the reader. You really want to compare apples to oranges, not Fuji apples to McIntoshes. Or, better yet, try comparing apples to baby birds.

Let’s say you were to write, “The coffin was a dark shroud. ” Since both coffins and shrouds are items that cover the dead, “shroud” doesn’t take us very far afield here, and my idea of the coffin hasn’t changed much after reading this comparison. But if you were to write, “The coffin was a black boat,” then your reader might be a little more surprised. Firstly, it seems like an apt comparison—both coffins and boats are containers of sorts. Secondly, a boat introduces the idea of travel or conveyance, and that idea is reflected back onto the subject, the coffin. The idea of an afterlife, or of a transition from life to death, has been introduced. We now know more about the coffin than we did before, and we’re thinking about it in fresh ways.

Your metaphors should contain all the information your reader needs, and no more. Learning how to judge this takes time and experience. When we are evaluating our metaphors or similes, we want to consider not only what’s most apt (coffin/shroud vs. coffin/boat) but what’s important. For instance, let’s look at these lines:

their dreams as bruised as apples fallen in the orchard, late September, no one caring to pick them up.

What’s important here? Dreams bruised like apples, clearly. Something that should be nourishing and sweet has been damaged. The orchard is also important, because it adds context and lets us know that these apples were intended for use, not just growing wild. Since the apples were never harvested, there’s an idea of waste or neglect evoked here. This adds further nuance to the metaphor.

I’m putting a lot of stress here on picking the right metaphor and how best to present it, but my intent isn’t to discourage you. Whether a metaphor works in a poem can’t be judged until you try, and the exercises I’m suggesting at the end of this piece will encourage you to experiment. But a lot of the figurative language that immediately springs to mind when we think of something like “love,” for instance, comes not only from cultural traditions but also from the commercial sector. When you compare your love to a flower, you’re channeling not just Robert Burns but also FTD and Hallmark. By thinking about how to balance aptness and surprise, and considering your metaphor’s true focus, you can avoid relying on clichés.

If someone says, “I felt angry” to you, you really have only a broad understanding of that emotion. You can draw on your own experiences with anger, but what if you’ve never had cause to be as angry as this person? Or what if this person is using the word “angry” when really they mean something more like “miffed”? But if that person were to say, “I felt like someone had set me on fire,” then you’d not only have a much better idea of just how angry he or she is, but better understand the person’s feelings of helplessness, hurt, and lingering pain. This is the real gift figurative language gives us—it allows us to better understand someone else’s experience even if our own experience doesn’t directly match up.

Here are some exercises to help you practice using figurative language. Some of these are based in play, and some are more serious. Both are necessary. Experiment, then evaluate and see what you have!

1. First, let’s warm up our engines. The following exercise, “Metaphor Mad-Libs,” is a great way to start thinking about metaphors without worrying too much about the result! Fill out these sentences and let your creativity loose.              My date danced like a __________________ (animal)       ________________ (verbing) on a ______________ (noun).              The rain pelts my skin like a _________________(noun/person)     ________________ (verbing) a/his/her ______________ (noun).               The world is a _____________________ (noun) trying to     _______________________ (verb phrase).              Romantic comedies are the ____________________ (noun)     of the _______________________ (noun).              The wind ___________________ (verbed) like a      ________________ (noun) ____________________ (verbing)      a ___________________ (noun).              Love me as much as a ___________________ (profession)     loves to _________________ (verb/phrase). Now that you’ve filled these out, go back and see if any of them strike you as particularly apt or funny. Pick one and see if you can write a poem using that as the first line. By filling in the blanks and giving yourself permission to temporarily abandon what “makes sense,” you may find yourself writing wilder, zanier poems. Many contemporary poems use figurative language in a similarly freewheeling way. You might check out James Tate ’s “ Poem to Some of My Recent Poems ” or Lucy Brock-Broido ’s “ Meditation on the Catastrophic Imagination ” and think about how their figurative language serves as a counterpoint or complement to their thematic concerns. In Wendy Xu ’s “ And Then It Was Less Bleak Because We Said So ,” for example, ecstatic figurative language such as “Your confetti tongue explodes / into acid jazz” gradually gives way to a more melancholy tone. 2. The poet Cathy Smith Bowers suggests taking a look at Pablo Neruda ’s odes , and using one as a model for your own poem. Neruda wrote many odes to inanimate objects. For example, in “ Ode to a Large Tuna in the Market ,” he describes the fish as a “torpedo / from the ocean / depths, / a missile” that is now a “solitary man of war / among these frail vegetables” of the market. Read the entire poem a few times, then go through and circle all the places you see metaphors, similes, or other forms of figurative language. You’ll find there are quite a lot! Neruda’s figurative language and wide-ranging imagination let us see the fish vividly as it was in life, making the acknowledgment of the fish’s death all the more affecting. Now, with Neruda as inspiration, try to write your own ode to an inanimate object, using figurative language to bring it to life. 3. This last exercise, from the poet Jacques Rancourt, focuses a bit more on the image in general, but it will still require you to think about metaphor and/or simile. Take a look at the poem “ To Absence ,” by W.S. Merwin . What images does Merwin use to evoke the idea of absence, without directly invoking it in the poem? Then choose one of these seven abstractions: love, despair, innocence, loneliness, joy, truth, or trust. Take a few minutes to brainstorm imagery for each one. Let your imagination run wild and weird—maybe “innocence” makes you think of two Siberian tigers sleeping in the rain!—but try to avoid overused images (such as a rose for love). The images don’t have to make sense yet; trust your mind’s weirdness. Now go through your lists of images and pick the one that really strikes you as surprising, strange, and interesting. Write a poem exploring that image, but do not mention the inspiring abstraction (or any other abstractions) in your poem. Instead, use the abstraction as a title, as Merwin does.

There are many kinds of figurative language in addition to the ones I’ve concentrated on here. Once you become more comfortable with metaphor and simile, try branching out into other techniques, which you can find explained in our Glossary of Poetic Terms . You might find personification a useful tool, or metonymy and synecdoche . You might also consider the figures of speech that concentrate less on meaning and more on word order, such as anaphora , antithesis , and chiasmus . I hope these exercises help you see that when we use figurative language, we may not be saying what we mean literally, but we are putting meaning into what we say.

Rebecca Hazelton is the author of Fair Copy (2012), winner of the Ohio State University Press/ The Journal Award in Poetry, and Vow (2013), from Cleveland State University Poetry Center. She was the 2010-11 Jay C. and Ruth Halls Poetry Fellow at the University of Wisconsin, Madison's Creative Writing Institute; and winner of the “Discovery”/ Boston Review 2012 p oetry contest. Hazelton's poems have appeared...

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11 Ideas for Teaching Figurative Language Meaningfully

Figurative language is easy to make one of the most engaging aspects of an ELA class. By nature, it is playful. Because it can be paired with pretty much any unit, it can be woven in throughout the year to ensure students get the repetition and practice they need. Here are some ideas for teaching figurative language in middle or high school.

When to Teach It:

Any time! Figurative language is fun to teach with almost any unit. When lesson planning, consider what type of figurative language is the most relevant to the text and the skills students need to develop.

With Poetry…

For example, build figurative language into your poetry units. Teaching poetry? Try to identify the technique the poet uses most frequently. Think, what literary device packs the most power? Then, as students practice literary analysis, make sure that figurative language is part of their response. This lesson will work with any poem of your choice.

With Shakespeare…

While most of my literature units only focus on a few literary devices, teaching figurative language with Shakespeare’s plays is different. They are so rich in a wide range of poetic devices that we spend more time studying how they reflect his craft.

Try beginning a  Romeo and Juliet  unit by   introducing figurative language . Then, before finding examples from the play, ask students to look for them in a text that is more familiar, like  The Lion King . With this scaffolding, students are more prepared to notice and analyze figurative language in the play.

With Short Stories…

Throw in a literary terms with each short story  students read and analyze. Reading “The Gift of the Magi”? Study irony. While reading “The Lottery,” dig deep by analyzing the symbolism of the ritual, the people’s names, and the objects involved. Additionally, “The Scarlet Ibis” provides opportunities for discussion of many similes and metaphors.

With Novels…

Novels are the perfect opportunity to focus on more complex figurative language. They generally contain multiple examples of a device. For instance,  To Kill a Mockingbird is full of allusions and idioms. What’s more, novels provide the chance to study figurative language that develops over the course of an entire work. Consider:  Lord of the Flies and  Animal Farm  both are perfect for studying allegory.

With Creative Writing…

Don’t forget to build figurative language into writing units. It can be a powerful way to frame an essay, but even more so, students generally love learning to use literary devices in creative writing. In particular, this lesson  has been enjoyable for students because it allows them to respond to high-interest nonfiction texts through figurative language, color, and abstract thinking.

How to Hook Students:

Sadly, even literary terms can be boring if all students do is identify examples and practice with worksheets. Try adding some divergent thinking and movement when teaching figurative language, like this.

Analyze figurative language in movies…

Students love seeing the application of what they are learning in popular culture. Youtube is full of videos that will engage students. Play one like this , and have a meaningful discussion about how the literary devices add to the viewers’ experiences.

Discuss figurative language in songs…

Students will find this clip and many others like it engaging. So, watch them dance in their seats and sing out loud as they reflect on how song writers embed figurative language in popular music. Ask students: What would this song be like without the similes? How does the power of this poem rest in its figurative language?

Write figurative language to complement art…

Art is visually appealing, which makes it an excellent writing hook. Try asking students to write a short response to a piece of artwork using a specific type of figurative language. For example, maybe they think Van Gogh’s brush strokes look like tufts on a blanket or scales on a lizard (similes). Or, perhaps they think their favorite surrealist’s work is  just a little crazy (understatement). Alternatively, students responses could be a narrative to accompany the artwork instead of a commentary on the artist’s style.

Act it out…

Put students in pairs or small groups. Then, assign them one type of figurative language, and ask them to write a script that uses that device at least ten times. Students can record their skits and play them for the class or perform their skits live. The repetition generally makes these skits entertaining and memorable.

Watch Flocabulary clips…

Flocabulary has some high-interest figurative language clips students love. Here is one for similes and metaphors . They also have one for  hyperboles  and personification , and this one is for figurative language in general. Instead of just showing students the clip and moving on, have them write down examples or explanations from the clips that they haven’t thought of before.

Play games…

Games can bring energy and social learning benefits to the classroom. Figurative language lends itself well to game play, if your classroom culture calls for such. Try Figurative Language Truth or Dare   for a basic level game. Want to add more terms and challenge advanced students? Play Get Schooled !

Teaching figurative language can and should be fun and memorable. Begin by hooking students, make sure to sprinkle it in frequently throughout the year, and add some divergent thinking to push students beyond simple identification.

Interested in reading more about figurative language? In this post , Language Arts Classroom writes about 10 poems and figurative language to teach with each.

USING PICTURE BOOKS AS MENTOR TEXTS

11 ways to use color-coding strategies in the classroom, short story unit ideas, related resource:.

This scaffolded literary analysis activity works with any poem or song and helps students reflect on how figurative language impacts the text and the reader overall.

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