Figurative Language
Figurative Language is language that’s used in an
unexpected way to create a special effect or feeling.
Simile A comparison of two
Metaphor A comparison of
things using “like” or “as”
two things by saying one
thing is another thing
Javier is as strong as an ox.
The car was a baking oven
in the hot sun.
Hyperbole An exaggeration,
qualities or characteristics
to an animal or object
usually used for dramatic
effect or to make
people laugh
Our little boat skipped
over the waves.
I have a million things
to do today.
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
Personification Gives human
Figurative Language
Figurative Language can include phrases and literary devices
that add meaning to a text or add to a reader’s enjoyment of it.
Sound Devices Techniques
Sensory Words/Imagery
authors or poets use to draw
readers’ attention or to
emphasize a certain image,
idea, or line
Words authors use to appeal
to readers’ senses and help
them feel what characters feel
Assonance: Sue likes the color
blue as much as you do.
Alliteration: Nate never neglects
his neighbors.
Caden had a throbbing headache.
Idiom An expression
Adage/Proverb A short, common,
that means something
different from the
meanings of its
individual words
or very old statement that expresses
a general truth or gives advice
You nailed it!
Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket!
Pun A play on words that uses two
words that sound alike, or different
meanings of the same word, to make
a funny statement
I took my banana to the doctor
because it wasn't peeling well.
Being struck by lightning
must be a shocking experience!
© Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
Onomatopoeia: The bees
buzzed noisily.