Literary Devices

Front

Simile

Back

A comparison between two things using words such as 'like' or 'as'. Example: 'Her smile is like the sun.'

Front

Alliteration

Back

A repetition of beginning consonant sounds. Example: 'She sells sea shells by the sea shore.'

Front

Allusion

Back

A reference to something literary, mythological, historical, or biblical that the author assumes the reader will recognize. Example: 'He has the strength of Hercules.'

Front

Foreshadowing

Back

A hint or presentation of material so that the reader is prepared for what is to come later in the story. Example: 'The dark clouds hinted at the storm to come.'

Front

Verbal Irony

Back

When the words used are opposite of what is meant literally, similar to sarcasm. Example: Saying 'Oh, great!' when something bad happens.

Front

Metaphor

Back

A direct comparison between two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'. Example: 'Time is a thief.'

Front

Personification

Back

Attributing human characteristics to non-human things. Example: 'The wind whispered through the trees.'

Front

Hyperbole

Back

An exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally. Example: 'I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.'

Front

Onomatopoeia

Back

A word that imitates the sound it represents. Example: 'buzz', 'bang', 'sizzle'.

Front

Symbolism

Back

Using symbols to represent ideas or qualities. Example: A dove symbolizes peace.