Literal vs Figurative Language

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What is Literal Language?

Back

Literal language means exactly what it says. It is straightforward and does not involve any exaggeration or metaphor.

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What is Figurative Language?

Back

Figurative language uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It often involves similes, metaphors, and exaggeration.

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Example of Literal Language: "The sky is blue." What does this mean?

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This statement is a literal description of the color of the sky.

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Example of Figurative Language: "It's raining cats and dogs." What does this mean?

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This means that it is raining very heavily, not that actual cats and dogs are falling from the sky.

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What is a Simile?

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

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Example of a Simile: "He runs like the wind." What does this mean?

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This means that he runs very fast.

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What is a Metaphor?

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A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares two different things without using 'like' or 'as'.

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Example of a Metaphor: "Time is a thief." What does this mean?

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This means that time can take away moments from our lives, just like a thief takes away possessions.

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What is Hyperbole?

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Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement that is not meant to be taken literally.

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Example of Hyperbole: "I am so hungry I could eat a horse." What does this mean?

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This means that the person is very hungry, but it is an exaggeration.