Figurative language definitions flashcards

Alliteration

The repetition of the same sound or letter at the beginning of words in a phrase or sentence.

Allusion

A brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance.

Analogy

A comparison between two different things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.

Antagonist

The character or force that opposes the protagonist.

Apostrophe

A figure of speech in which the speaker addresses an absent person, an abstract idea, or a thing.

Assonance

The repetition of a vowel sound in non-rhyming words.

Connotation

The emotional or cultural association a word carries, beyond its literal definition.

Denotation

The literal or dictionary definition of a word.

Dialect

The language used by the people of a specific area, class, group, often including unique vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Diction

A writer’s choice of words, which contributes to the tone and style of the literary work.

Extended Metaphor

A metaphor that is developed over several lines or throughout an entire literary work. Unlike a regular metaphor, it continues the comparison in multiple ways.

Foil

A character who contrasts with another to highlight particular qualities of the other character.

Foreshadowing

A literary device in which a writer gives an advanced hint of what is to come later in the story.

Hyperbole

An exaggeration of an idea for the sake of emphasis.

Imagery

The descriptive of figurative language that appeals to the five senses-sight, sound, smell, taster, and touch-to create a vivid experience for the reader. By using imagery, authors enhance their writing, helping readers to visualize, feel, and understand the text on a deeper, more emotional level.

Indirect Characterization

The process by which the personality of a fictitious character is revealed

Irony

A contrast or incongruity between expectations and reality.

Juxtaposition

The placement of two or more things side-by-side, often to compare or contrast them.

Metaphor

A direct comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as”.

Motif

A recurring element, idea, or image in a work of literature

Paradox

A statement that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper truth.

Personification

Giving human like qualities or actions to inanimate objects or animals.

Protaginst

The main character in a story.

Pun

A play on words that have similar sounds but different meanings.

Repetition

The repeating of a word, phrase,or sentence for emphasis or to create a rhythm.

Satire

The use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and critcize poeple’s stupidity or vices.

Simile

A comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as'“.

Symbolism

The use of objects or ideas to represent something else

Syntax

The way words are arranged to form sentences and phrases.

Theme

The central, underlying message or idea of literary work.

Tone

The author’s attitude towards the subject, characters, or audience as conveyed through their word choice and style.