Figurative Language

1. Figurative Language Class Notes & Examples

2. Alliteration – the repetition of the same initial consonant or sound in a series of words A flea and a fly in a flue Were imprisoned, so what could they do? Said the fly, “Let us flee!” “Let us fly,” said the flea; So they flew through a flaw in the flue.

3. Metaphor – a direct comparison of one thing or idea to another, which is not normally related LULLABYE Sleep, baby, sleep The large stars are the sheep; The little stars are the lambs, I guess; The gentle moon’s the shepherdess. Sleep, baby, sleep.

4. Simile – a comparison using like or as to suggest that two objects or ideas are alike There was a young girl in a tower Who looked just as fresh as a flower. Her hair was like silk, Her skin smooth as milk, But her breath made the strongest knight cower.

5. Onomatopoeia – the use of a word to describe or imitate a natural sound or the sound made by an object or an action Table Manners The Goops are gluttonous and rude; They gug and gumble with their food; They throw their crumbs upon the floor, And at dessert they tease for more; They will not eat their soup and bread But like to gobble sweets, instead, And this is why I oft decline When I’m asked to stay and dine!

6. Personification – giving human qualities to an object, thing, or idea Examples: The ancient car groaned into third gear. The cloud scattered rain throughout the city. The tropical storm slept for two days.

7. Hyperbole – an exaggeration so dramatic that no one would believe that the statement is true THE RAM On my way to Hampton, One fine autumn day, I met the biggest ram That ever fed on hay. This ram was hefty in fore And aft. He stood about 10 yds. high, The wool upon his back, Reached on up to the sky. The space between his horns, Was so far no one could reach, He could prob’ly eat a mountain, But I handed him my Peach!

8. FINALE As a group, we will complete the quiz found here: Online quiz on figurative language