Figurative Language Flashcards
Apostrophe
A direct address of an inanimate object, abstract qualities or a person not living or present.
Ex: “beware, O Asparagus, you’ve stalked my last meal.”
Hyperbole
exaggeration for emphasis (the opposite of understatement)
Ex. “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.”
Metaphor
comparison between essentially unlike things without using words OR application of a name or description to something to which it is not literally applicable.
Ex. “[Love] is an ever fixed mark, / that looks on tempests and is never shaken.”
A comparison in order to create an image and emphasize/reveal shared attributes of two things. A concrete image or object that is used to express abstract meanings or ideas
Not a simile bc does not have “like” or “as”. no words to call our attention to a comparison, powerful, immediate metaphor
Metonymy
a closely related term substituted for an object or idea
Ex. “We have always remained loyal to the crown”
Oxymoron
a combination of two words that appear to contradict each other
Ex. Bittersweet
Paradox
a situation or phrase that appears to be contradictory but which contains a truth worth considering
Ex. “In order to preserve peace, we must prepare for war.”
Personification
the endowment of inanimate objects or abstract concepts with animate or living qualities
Ex. “Time let me play / and be golden in the mercy of his means”
Giving an inanimate object human qualities and possessions
- the effect is more relatable, empathy
Pun
play on words OR a humorous use of a single word or sound with two or more implied meanings; quibble
Ex. “They’re called lessons…because they lessen from day to day.”
Simile
comparison between two essentially unlike things using words such as “like”, “as”, or “as though”
Ex. “My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun”
A comparison in order to create an image and emphasize/reveal shared attributes of two things.
