Literary Terms Review

Front

Simile

Back

Comparison of unlike things using 'like' or 'as'

Answer explanation

A simile is specifically defined as a comparison between two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'. This distinguishes it from other forms of comparison, making the first answer choice the correct one.

Front

Metaphor

Back

Direct comparison; describes something as though it were something else

Answer explanation

A metaphor is a direct comparison where something is described as though it were something else, highlighting similarities without using 'like' or 'as', which distinguishes it from similes.

Front

Symbol

Back

Something that is itself and also stands for something else

Answer explanation

A symbol is defined as something that represents itself while also standing for something else, making the first answer choice correct. The other options describe different literary devices, not symbols.

Front

Dramatic Irony

Back

Audience knows something the character does not

Answer explanation

Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the character does not, creating tension and engagement. This contrasts with the other options, which describe different literary devices or concepts.

Front

Verbal Irony

Back

Character says opposite of what they mean

Answer explanation

Verbal irony occurs when a character says something contradictory to what they actually mean or believe, highlighting a contrast between their words and true intentions.

Front

Situational Irony

Back

Contradiction of expectations

Answer explanation

Situational irony occurs when an event contradicts what was expected, highlighting the difference between anticipation and reality. The correct choice captures this essence perfectly.

Front

Conflict

Back

The problem the protagonist faces.

Answer explanation

The correct choice defines conflict as the problem the protagonist faces, which can be categorized as internal or external. This encompasses all forms of conflict, making it the most comprehensive definition.

Front

Flashback

Back

Device presenting material before the opening scene

Answer explanation

A flashback is a narrative device that presents events that occurred before the main timeline of the story, helping to provide background and context to the current events.

Front

Plot

Back

Sequence of events in a story

Answer explanation

The plot refers to the sequence of events in a story, detailing how the narrative unfolds. This distinguishes it from other elements like atmosphere, setting, and climax, which serve different functions in literature.

Front

Personification

Back

Human traits to nonhuman things

Answer explanation

Personification is the literary device that involves giving human characteristics to nonhuman things and animals, making it the correct choice among the options provided.