figurative language

Simile

a comparison of 2 unlike things, USING “like” or “as”

Metaphor

a comparison of 2 unlike things, without using “like” or “as”

Allusion

a reference to something or someone that is not directly related to the original work

Idiom

a common expression that does not relate to the literal meaning of its words

Hyperbole

an exaggeration for dramatic effect

Personification

1. giving inanimate (non-living) objects human-like qualities

   
   

Symbol

an object that represents or stands for something else

Oxymoron

two elements that seem to be contradictory (opposite), placed side by side

Paradox

a seemingly contradictory statement that when explained, actually makes sense

Euphemism

a less offensive word or phrase used to substitute for one that is offensive

Pun

a play-on-words involving a double meaning (often humorous)

Alliteration

repetition of the same or similar sounds at the beginning of words

Irony (DRAMATIC)

 a contrast between what the characters think to be true, and what we (as the audience) know to be true

Irony (SITUATIONAL)

a contrast between what is expected, and what actually happens

Irony (VERBAL)

a contrast between what someone says, and what they actually mean