What is figurative language?
Words and phrases that communicate meanings beyond the literal meanings of words.
SimileA comparison between two things or ideas that uses “like” or “as.”
Example: He was as round as a tire.
Personification
Giving human-like qualities to something that is not human
Example: The wind sang through the air.
Tone
Tone is the attitude a writer takes toward a subject or situation.
(Example: How your mother feels about her broken lamp)
(How the writer feels)
Mood
The mood is the feeling or atmosphere the writer creates for the reader.
(Example: How you react to your mother’s reaction)
(How you feel)
Irony The expression of one’s meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, usually for humorous effect.
Situational Irony
When something happens that is very different than what was expected. Also called “irony of events.”
Dramatic Irony
When the audience knows something the characters don’t.
Verbal Irony
A person says or writes one thing and means another, or uses words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of the literal meaning.
Pun
The humorous use of a word or phrase so as to emphasize or suggest its different meanings or applications
Romeo (to Mercutio): I dream'd a dream to-night.Mercutio: And so did I.Romeo: Well what was yours?Mercutio: That dreamers often lie.
Hyperbole
Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.