Figures of Speech Quiz

The wind made talking difficult, and flecked the blood into the face.

• Personification

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'the wind made talking difficult' attributes human-like qualities to the wind, which is an example of personification. This literary device enhances the imagery and emotional impact of the scene.

The thin trees in the garden were lashing themselves along the railing.

• Personification

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'the thin trees in the garden were lashing themselves' attributes human actions to trees, which is an example of personification. This literary device gives life-like qualities to non-human elements.

The night was wild when he came.

• Personification

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'The night was wild' attributes human-like qualities to the night, which is an example of personification. This literary device gives life to inanimate concepts, enhancing the imagery of the scene.

A dismal screech, as of mere animal terror, rang from the cabinet.

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'as of mere animal terror' compares the screech to an animal's fear, using 'as' to create a simile. This indicates a direct comparison, making 'simile' the correct choice.

Like a disconsolate prisoner.

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'like a disconsolate prisoner' uses 'like' to compare two different things, which is the hallmark of a simile. It highlights the emotional state of the subject by drawing a vivid comparison.

A crushing anticipation of calamity.

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'a crushing anticipation of calamity' compares anticipation to a crushing force, suggesting it is overwhelming. This is a metaphor, as it describes one thing in terms of another without using 'like' or 'as', unlike a simile.

A sense of unexpressed deformity.

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'a sense of unexpressed deformity' suggests a comparison without using 'like' or 'as', indicating it is a metaphor. It conveys an idea of deformity in a figurative way, rather than literally.

The body of a self-destroyer.

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Euphemism

Answer explanation

The phrase 'the body of a self-destroyer' is a euphemism, as it indirectly refers to someone who has died by suicide, using softer language to address a sensitive topic.