Literary Devices and Techniques

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Metaphor

Back

A comparison without using “like” or “as.” Example: Her voice was a warm blanket on a cold night.

Front

Simile

Back

A comparison using “like” or “as.” Example: He ran as fast as a cheetah.

Front

Personification

Back

Giving human qualities to non-human things. Example: The wind whispered secrets through the trees.

Front

Symbolism

Back

Using objects, colors, or concepts to represent ideas. Example: A white dove often symbolizes peace.

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Imagery

Back

Language that appeals to the senses. Example: The tangy scent of citrus filled the air as sunlight danced on the golden peel.

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Hyperbole

Back

Exaggeration for emphasis. Example: I’ve told you a million times to clean your room!

Front

Allusion

Back

A reference to a well-known work, event, or person. Example: His strength was his Achilles’ heel.

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Irony

Back

A contrast between expectation and reality. Example: The fire station burned down yesterday.

Front

Alliteration

Back

Repetition of initial consonant sounds. Example: The sly snake slid silently through the sand.

Front

Assonance

Back

Repetition of vowel sounds within words. Example: The mellow bell echoed across the dell.