Figurative Language Flashcards
Figure of speech
Verbal expression whose meaning is figurative rather than literal. Often used for emphasis, freshness of expression, or clarity. Includes metaphors similes hyperboles alliteration and understatements (it’s just a scratch)
Figurative language
Exaggerates what is literal in order to convey a point. Includes alliteration onomatopoeia personification imagery similes metaphors hyperbole
Alliteration
Describes a series of words beginning with the same sounds. Same consonant sound (phase of pain NO phase of fame YES
Onomatopoeia
Uses words imitating the sounds of things they name or describe. Includes words that represent sounds such as kaboom
Personification
Describing a non human thing as if it were human. Intent is to describe things in a manner that will be comprehensible to readers
Hyperbole
Excessive exaggeration used for humor or emphasis rather than for literal meaning
Three types of literal irony
Verbal situational dramatic
Verbal irony
Uses words opposite to the meaning, may use sarcasm
Situational irony
What happens contrasts with what was expected
Dramatic irony
Narrative informs audiences of more than its characters know
Idioms
Create comparisons and often take the form of similes or metaphors. Are always phrases and are understood to have a meeting that is different from its individual words literal meaning. Many are associated with a region or group. Break a leg.