COMP - Literary Terms

Question 1

Define Hyperbole

Answer 1

Hyperbole is an exaggerated way of expressing something, often used for emphasis or dramatic effect.

Ex. “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.”

Question 2

Define Euphemism

Answer 2

A euphemism is a mild or less direct word or expression used in place of one that is considered harsh or blunt.

Ex. “Passed away” instead of “died.”

Question 3

Define Oxymoron

Answer 3

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms are combined

Ex. “jumbo shrimp”
“deafening silence.”

Question 4

Define “Malapropism”

Question 5

Define Irony

Answer 5

Irony is a contrast between expectation and reality. There are several types, including verbal irony (saying the opposite of what is meant) and situational irony (when events turn out differently than expected).

Question 6

Define “Satire”

Question 7

Define “Parody”

Question 8

Define Synecdoche

Answer 8

A synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part of something represents the whole, or the whole represents a part.
Ex.”All hands on deck” where “hands” refers to people.