Figurative Language What is Figurative Language? Whenever you describe something by comparing it with something else, you are using figurative language.  Simile A simile uses the words “like” or “as” to compare one object or idea with another to suggest they are alike. Example: busy as a bee Metaphor The metaphor states a fact or draws a verbal picture by the use of comparison. A simile would say you are like something; a metaphor is more positive - it says you are something. Example: You are what you eat. Personification   A figure of speech in which human characteristics are given to an animal or an object. Example: My teddy bear gave me a hug. Alliteration The repetition of the same initial letter, sound, or group of sounds in a series of words. Alliteration includes tongue twisters. Example: She sells seashells by the seashore. Onomatopoeia The use of a word to describe or imitate a natural sound or the sound made by an object or an action. Example: snap crackle pop Hyperbole An exaggeration that is so dramatic that no one would believe the statement is true. Tall tales are hyperboles. Example: He was so hungry, he ate that whole cornfield for lunch, stalks and all. Idioms According to Webster's Dictionary, an idiom is defined as: peculiar to itself either grammatically (as no, it wasn't me) or in having a meaning that cannot be derived from the conjoined meanings of its elements (as Monday week for "the Monday a week after next Monday") Clichés  A cliché is an expression that has been used so often that it has become trite and sometimes boring. Example: Many hands make light work. Free Fun Games,  Powerpoints, Lesson Plans, Activities Figurative Language Index Reading Index Writing Index Grammar Index Punctuation Index Language Arts Games Free Original Clipart     All Rights Reserved    Clip Art Credit: Phillip Martin Have a great year!