Figures of Speech in Poetry

Something used to represent something else. For example, a dove represents peace.

• irony

• symbolism

• hyperbole

• oxymoron

​ (a)   is the direct comparison of dissimilar things to create more vivid imagery or understanding.​ For example, "his mind is a toilet."

• Metaphor
• Paradox
• Rhyme
• Symbol

Using words to create mental images that paint a picture in the reader's mind.

• irony

• diction

• hyperbole

• imagery

A surprising (and sometimes humorous) situation that opposes a reader's expectations. For example, a fire station catching on fire.​ (a)  

• irony
• hyperbole
• simile
• oxymoron

Match the following

• you smell like a rose

• hyperbole

• jumbo shrimp

• simile

• the bee went "buzz"

• oxymoron

• I'm going to die of hunger

• irony

• a divorced marriage counselor

• onomatopoeia

The vocabulary chosen by the author. It can be formal or informal.

• words

• diction

• phrasing

• metaphors

"awfully good" is an example of a(n) ______

• oxymoron

• simile

• metaphor

• image

a statement that appears to contradict itself but contains some truth

• paradox

• rhyme

• onomatopoeia

• hyperbole

Match the following

• simile

• a deliberate exaggeration

• rhythm

• a strong pattern of sounds

• attitude

• the way an author feels about a subject

• rhyme

• comparison using "like" or "as"

• hyperbole

• when sounds or syllables match

assigning human attributes to nonhuman things

• personification

• alliteration

• metaphor

• hyperbole