Literary Devices

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What is a metaphor?

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A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things by stating that one is the other, without using 'like' or 'as'. For example, 'Time is a thief.'

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What is irony?

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Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning is different from the actual meaning of the words. It often involves a situation that is opposite to what is expected.

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What is personification?

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Personification is a literary device where human qualities are attributed to animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts. For example, 'The wind whispered through the trees.'

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What is a simile?

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A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. For example, 'Her smile was like sunshine.'

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What is allusion?

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An allusion is a reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work of art. It is often used to create a connection or to add meaning.

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What is imagery?

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Imagery is descriptive language that appeals to the senses and creates vivid pictures in the reader's mind. For example, 'The golden sun set behind the purple mountains.'

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What is foreshadowing?

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Foreshadowing is a literary device used to give an indication or hint of what is to come later in the story.

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What is hyperbole?

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Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement that is not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect. For example, 'I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.'

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What is symbolism?

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Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. For example, a dove often symbolizes peace.

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What is an oxymoron?

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An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms appear in conjunction. For example, 'deafening silence.'