Figures of Speech

Front

What is a figure of speech?

Back

A figure of speech is a rhetorical device that achieves a special effect by using words in distinctive ways, often to convey meanings that are different from the literal interpretation.

Front

What is verbal irony?

Back

Verbal irony occurs when a speaker says the opposite of what he/she means.

Front

Give an example of verbal irony.

Back

Saying, 'Good job!' to someone who just rear-ended a car.

Front

What is personification?

Back

Personification is a figure of speech in which human qualities are attributed to animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts.

Front

Provide an example of personification.

Back

The trees dressed up in red and gold to celebrate the start of autumn.

Front

What is an idiom?

Back

An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning.

Front

What does the idiom 'I'm in a pickle' mean?

Back

It means to be in a difficult or troublesome situation.

Front

What is hyperbole?

Back

Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect.

Front

Give an example of hyperbole.

Back

I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.

Front

What is a simile?

Back

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'.