9 Figurative Language

What is figurative language?

WHAT IS FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE?

Sometimes, writers use words in such a way that their meaning is different from their usual meaning or Literal Meaning.  Figurative language helps us understand the way words are used in a creative way to describe characters, settings, and events.  These words help create images and moods for the reader.  Many words don’t always mean exactly what they say, but maybe making a comparison to something, etc.  Metaphors, similes, and idioms are often used to add color to the story.   For example, someone who has told a secret might say, “I  spilled the beans.”  This is an example of figurative language.  These words do not mean (literally) that the person actually spilled some beans.  These words mean (figuratively) “I didn’t mean to tell the secret.”

Figurative Language Terms: 

     Metaphor- comparing two things without “like” or “as”

     Simile-comparing two things using the word “like” or “as”

     Hyperbole- exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken   literally

     Personification- the attribution of a personal nature or human characteristics to something nonhuman