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XI MIPA 4
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
Figurative language is language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that
is different from the literal interpretation. When a writer uses literal language, he or she
is simply stating the facts as they are. Figurative language, in comparison, uses
exaggerations or alterations to make a particular linguistic point.
Figurative language is very common in poetry, but is also used in prose and nonfiction
writing.
Types of figurative language
• Simile: A simile is a direct comparison and uses the words like or as.
• Metaphor: A metaphor is a comparison made between to unlike things without the
use of a comparison word .
• Personification: When something that is not human is given human-like qualities,
this is known as personification.
• Metonymy: A figure of speech where one thing is replaced with a word that is
closely associated with it.
• Hyperbole: Exaggerating, often in a humorous way, to make a point is known as
hyperbole.
• Alliteration: Alliteration is a sound device. It is the repetition of the first consonant
sounds in several words.
• Onomatopoeia: Onomatopoeia is also a sound device. It uses words that sound like
their meaning, or mimic sounds. They add a level of fun and reality to writing.
• Idiom: a group of words established by usage as having a meaning not deducible
from those of the individual words
• Symbolism: symbolism is using symbolism to explain ideas or qualities.
Like thunder, gonna shake your ground
Now I’m floating like a butterfly
Stinging like a bee I earned my stripes
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