Literary Terms Quiz

What is the term for a series of words that begin with the same consonant sound?

• Allusion

• Anaphora

• Alliteration

• Assonance

Answer explanation

The term for a series of words that begin with the same consonant sound is 'Alliteration'. It is commonly used in poetry and prose to create rhythm and emphasis.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

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Which term refers to a reference to a famous figure, text, or event?

Example: He exhibited Herculean strength.

• Metaphor

• Allusion

• Simile

• Irony

Answer explanation

The term 'allusion' refers to an indirect reference to a well-known figure, text, or event, as seen in the example 'He exhibited Herculean strength,' which alludes to Hercules from mythology.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

In poetry, what is exaggeration for effect?

Example: I will love you until the end of time.

• Anaphora

• Assonance

• Hyperbole

• Oxymoron

Answer explanation

Exaggeration for effect in poetry is known as hyperbole. The phrase 'I will love you until the end of time' is an example of hyperbole, as it amplifies the sentiment beyond literal interpretation.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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CCSS.RL.9-10.10

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

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Which term describes sound words in poetry?

Example: Drip, splash, squish

• Alliteration

• Assonance

• Onomatopoeia

• Metonymy

Answer explanation

The term that describes sound words in poetry, like 'drip', 'splash', and 'squish', is 'onomatopoeia'. This literary device mimics the sounds they represent, enhancing the sensory experience of the poem.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.8

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

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Which term is used for using extreme exaggeration for emphasis?

• Hyperbole

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Personification

Answer explanation

The term 'Hyperbole' refers to the use of extreme exaggeration for emphasis. It is often used in literature and speech to create a strong impression, unlike metaphor, simile, or personification, which serve different purposes.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is a well-known expression that doesn't mean literally what it says?

• Idiom

• Synecdoche

• Metonymy

• Oxymoron

Answer explanation

An idiom is a well-known expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal interpretation, such as 'kick the bucket' meaning to die. This distinguishes it from other terms like synecdoche or metonymy.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Which term refers to descriptive language that appeals to the five senses?

• Imagery

• Symbolism

• Allusion

• Irony

Answer explanation

The term 'Imagery' refers to descriptive language that appeals to the five senses, creating vivid mental pictures. It enhances the reader's experience by engaging sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the term for verbal sarcasm or when the opposite of what one would expect happens?

• Irony

• Pun

• Euphemism

• Metaphor

Answer explanation

The term for verbal sarcasm or unexpected outcomes is 'irony.' It highlights a contrast between expectations and reality, making it the correct choice over puns, euphemisms, or metaphors.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Which term compares two things by stating one thing is another?

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Alliteration

Answer explanation

A metaphor directly compares two things by stating one is the other, unlike a simile which uses 'like' or 'as'. For example, saying 'Time is a thief' is a metaphor.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the term for two words with opposite meanings coming together?

Example: Icy Hot

• Oxymoron

• Irony

• Metaphor

• Simile

Answer explanation

The term for two words with opposite meanings is 'oxymoron.' Examples include 'icy hot,' where contrasting ideas are combined to create a unique expression.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3