Literary Devices 1111

Alliteration

Repetition of initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words

Allusion

Reference to a person, place, event, or another passage of literature, without identification. Can originate in mythology, biblical references, historical events, legends, geography, or earlier literary works.

Irony

When words are used in such a way that their intended meaning is different from the actual meaning of the words. It may also be a situation that may end up in quite a different way than what is generally anticipated; the difference between the appearance and the reality.

Metaphor

A comparison of seemingly unlike objects or the substitution of one for the other suggesting some similarity. In the comparison, one thing is stated as if it BECOMES the other.

Oxymoron

Two contradictory words next to one another that reflect opposite ideas that join together to create an specific effect or meaning

Paradox

A statement that seems contradictory but is actually true; also used to illustrate an opinion or statement contrary to accepted traditional ideas

Symbolism

When an object representing another is given an entirely different meaning that is much deeper and more significant. Symbols suggest bigger ideas and qualities by giving them meanings that are different from the literal sense.

Personification

The giving of human qualities/characteristics to an animal, object, or idea

Hyperbole

exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.

Simile

A comparison using "like" or "as"

analogy

drawing a comparison in order to show a similarity

cliche

a worn-out idea or overused expression

contradiction

a statement that is the opposite of another statement

flashback

a transition in a story to an earlier event or scene

Foreshadowing

the use of hints and clues to suggest what will happen later in a plot

pun

A play on words

repetition

Repeated use of sounds, words, or ideas for effect and emphasis

sarcasm

witty language used to convey insults or scorn

satire

the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity

Understatement

A statement that says less than what is meant

Conflict

A struggle between opposing forces

Theme

Central idea of a work of literature