Figurative Language

Figurative Language

Enhancing Writing

Alliteration

The repetition of initial consonant sounds to invoke a feeling or sound

Example:

She sells sea shells by the seashore.

Allusion

A reference to a person, place, or thing outside the context of the text.

Example:

My husband brought me roses. I said, "Thanks, Romeo!"

Metaphor

The comparison of two like things, NOT using "like" or "as"

Example:

Life is a highway.

Personification

The act of giving an animal or inanimate object human characteristics.

Example:

The sun is smiling on us today.

Onomatopoeia

A word that mimics the sound it describes.

Example:

The bees are buzzing.

Simile

The comparison of two unlike things, using the words "like" or "as".

Example:

She was as sweet as pie.

Symbolism

The use of items to represent ideas or qualities.

Example:

The good guy wears a white hat, while the bad guy wears a black hat.

Synesthesia

The explanation of one sensory experience by describing another.

Example:

You could cut the tension with a knife.