summerset 2 - the figurative lang. toolbox

Allusion

Reference to something well known. Ex: he is a real Einstein

Personification

Giving something nonhuman qualities

Simile

Using like or as

Metaphor

Direct comparison without like/as. Ex: I could eat a horse

Extended metaphor

Metaphor continues over multiple lines. ex: an entire speech comparing life to a journey

Symbolism

Something concrete represents a bigger idea. Ex: a dove → peace

Analogy

Comparison used to explain something. Ex: just as exercise strengthens muscles, studying strengthens knowledge

Hyperbole

Intentional exaggeration. Ex: I’ve told you a million times

Litotes

Understatement by negotiating the opposite, ex: that test was not easy = it was difficult

Motif

An idea/image that keeps appearing. Ex: repeated references to darkness throughout a story