Understanding Figurative Language

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Figurative language (definition)

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using words in a way that's different from their literal, everyday meaning to create a more vivid or imaginative effect.

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Simile (definition)

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used to compare two things using the words “like,” “as,” or “than.”

Example: Her phone buzzed like a beehive.

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Alliteration (definition)

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the repetition of the same consonant sound at the beginning of words in close proximity to each other (e.g., “whispering winds,” “busy bee”). Alliteration gives a rhythmic and almost musical quality to words that makes them more engaging, memorable, and impactful.

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Allusion (definition)

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It is a reference to a person, place, or event that the speaker or writer assumes will be understood by their audience, with the effect that it adds a layer of meaning or insight to the text. Usually refers to something well-known or famous.

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Metaphor (definition)

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a figure of speech that implicitly compares two unrelated things, typically by stating that one thing is another (e.g., “that chef is a magician”).

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"Time is a thief"

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Metaphor

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"Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers"

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Alliteration

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"She was the Juliet to my Romeo."

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This is an example of an allusion. It alludes to the play "Romeo and Juliet" written by William Shakespeare.

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"John was running as fast as a cheetah."

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This is an example of a simile. It is basically saying that Johnny was running very quickly.

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"The classroom was a zoo."

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This is an example of a metaphor. It is basically saying that the classroom is very chaotic and loud.