Literary Devices Flashcards

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Metaphor

Back

A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object to which it is not literally applicable. (Example: Bill is an early bird.)

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Simile

Back

Comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind using the words "like" or "as". (Example: brave as a lion, crazy like a fox)

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Personification

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The attribution of human characteristics to something nonhuman. (Example: The cat danced around the toy mouse before pouncing on it.)

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Onomatopoeia

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The formation of a word from a sound associated with what is named. (Example: bam, sizzle)

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Alliteration

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The occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of closely connected words. (Example: the sweet sound of singing)

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Allusion

Back

An expression designed to call something to mind without mentioning it explicitly; an indirect or passing reference. (Example: Cassius is an allusion to Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar)

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Hyperbole

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Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. (Example: I’ve tried to figure out this math problem 100 times)

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Idiom

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A saying that is figurative instead of literal. (Example: He had cold feet the day before his wedding)

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Example of Metaphor

Back

Bill is an early bird.

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Example of Simile

Back

Brave as a lion, crazy like a fox.