Overview
This lesson introduces figurative language, explains why it is used, and provides definitions and examples of common types.
What is Figurative Language?
- Figurative language adds appeal and engagement to writing by using creative expressions rather than literal statements.
- It includes various techniques such as simile, metaphor, hyperbole, alliteration, personification, and onomatopoeia.
Simile
- A simile compares two things using "like," "as," or "than."
- Example: "The girl crept up as quietly as a mouse."
Metaphor
- A metaphor states that one thing is another thing to highlight similarities, without using "like" or "as."
- Example: "Dylan is a pig when he eats."
Hyperbole
- Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement used for emphasis or effect.
- Example: "I have told you a million times not to lie."
Alliteration
- Alliteration is the repetition of the same beginning sound in two or more words close together.
- Example: "Lily received fancy flowers for her birthday."
Personification
- Personification gives human traits to non-human things.
- Example: "The trees danced playfully in the rain."
Onomatopoeia
- Onomatopoeia uses words that imitate the sound they represent.
- Example: "Crunch went the leaves."
Key Terms & Definitions
- Figurative Language — language that uses creative expressions to convey meaning beyond the literal sense.
- Simile — a comparison using "like," "as," or "than."
- Metaphor — a direct comparison stating one thing is another.
- Hyperbole — deliberate exaggeration for emphasis.
- Alliteration — repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words.
- Personification — assigning human qualities to non-human objects.
- Onomatopoeia — words that mimic actual sounds.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review each type of figurative language and memorize definitions and examples.
- Practice identifying and creating your own examples of each figurative language type.