Literary Techniques

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What is a metaphor?

Back

A figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'. Example: 'Time is a thief.'

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What is hyperbole?

Back

An exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally. Example: 'I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.'

Front

What is a simile?

Back

A figure of speech that compares two different things using 'like' or 'as'. Example: 'Her smile is like the sun.'

Front

What is personification?

Back

A literary technique where human qualities are attributed to animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts. Example: 'The flowers danced in the wind.'

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What is symbolism?

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The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. Example: A dove symbolizes peace.

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What is alliteration?

Back

The repetition of the same initial consonant sound in a series of words. Example: 'She sells sea shells by the sea shore.'

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What is onomatopoeia?

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A word that imitates the sound it represents. Example: 'Buzz', 'hiss', 'clang'.

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What is imagery?

Back

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses and creates a picture in the reader's mind. Example: 'The golden sun set over the calm blue sea.'

Front

What is an idiom?

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A phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning. Example: 'It's raining cats and dogs.'

Front

What is irony?

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A contrast between expectation and reality, often highlighting a discrepancy. Example: A fire station burns down.