Figurative vs. Literal Language

 Figurative Language  Literal Language 

Figurative language

involves the use of words and phrases to mean something other than their dictionary definitions.  Figurative language is used to make comparisons, exaggerate, and be very descriptive.



I am so embarrassed that I want to die!

 In

literal language

, the words mean the same as their dictionary definitions.  

Drinking and driving can literally kill you.

 Words mean exactly what they are supposed to mean.

Wearing last years shoes will not literally kill you.

Simile

 Comparing two things using the words

like

or

as

.

 Makes descriptions more vivid and interesting.

  The girl is as sweet as sugar.

He sings like an angel.

Metaphor

 Comparison between two things without using like or as.

 Concept of understanding one thing in terms of another.

  The test was a breeze.

The day was a new beginning.

Onomatopoeia

 Words that imitate the sound it represents  What is the effect that this has on writing?

Zip, drip, zoom, tick, tock, boom, splash, bang, bong, swish

Hyperbole

 Use of exaggeration to evoke strong feelings or make a strong impression.

 An extravagant statement not to be taken literally.

  I am so hungry I could eat a cow.

His brain is the size of a pea.

Personification



Personification

is giving human traits (qualities, feelings, action, or characteristics) to non-living objects.

 Examples?

Imagery

  Words you can taste, smell, hear, feel, and see.

 The writer paints a picture for the reader, using descriptive words that appeal to the five senses.

How can we paint a picture in this sentence?

 The food was good.