Hyperbole

All about Hyperbole

Hyperbole is a type of figurative language.

Hyperbole

An exaggeration. Not to be taken literally (not to be taken word for word). Authors use hyperbole to make writing more interesting and to emphasize certain features or events.

Example

"This math problem is impossible," Sam said. "How am I supposed to

solve 24 x 7?"

Is it really impossible though? Or is the student exaggerating?

Poll

The student is just exaggerating.

• Yes

• No

Pat waited in the car forever.

Multiple Choice

Pat waited in the car forever.

• Pat sat in the car for her entire life.

• Pat waited in the car a long time.

Anisa's cat kept her awake all night long.

Multiple Choice

Anisa's cat kept her awake all night long.

• Anisa's cat kept her awake the entire night.

• Anisa's cat kept her awake for a while.

Mom is going to punish me forever for ruining her new towels.

Multiple Choice

Mom is going to punish me forever for ruining her new towels.

• Mom will ground me for at least six months.

• Mom will not be happy.

• Mom will be happy.

You had better put on gloves, or your fingers will freeze off.

Multiple Choice

You had better put on gloves, or your fingers will freeze off.

• Your hands will be hot.

• Your fingers will freeze and fall off.

• Your fingers will be really cold.

I am so hungry I could eat a horse.

Multiple Choice

I am so hungry I could eat a horse.

• I could eat a lot.

• I could eat a whole horse.

• I am not hungry.