Literary Devices

This literary device refers to something by naming something else closely associated with it.

• Symbolism

• Metonymy

• Allusion

• Allegory

A contradiction that may reveal a hidden truth.

• Oxymoron

• Irony

• Paradox

• Hyperbole

A reference to a well-known person, event, or place from history, literature, or culture.

• Allusion

• Apostrophe

• Symbolism

• Imagery

The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.

• Rhyme

• Onomatopoeia

• Assonance

• Alliteration

A phrase combining two contradictory terms making a new meaning.

• Paradox

• Oxymoron

• Satire

• Metaphor

When what actually happens is the opposite of what is expected.

• Juxtaposition

• Hyperbole

• Irony

• Satire

When an absent or imaginary person is addressed as if present.

• Apostrophe

• Personification

• Allegory

• Simile

When something non-human is given human qualities.

• Apostrophe

• Personification

• Simile

• Metaphor

When two contrasting ideas or elements are placed side by side to highlight their differences.

• Oxymoron

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Juxtaposition

This device uses words that imitate the natural sound of an object or action.

• Allusion

• Onomatopoeia

• Paradox

• Apostrophe