Figurative language

Personification

Giving human qualities, feelings, or actions to non-human things, animals, or objects.

Example: "The wind whispered through the trees."

Metaphor

A direct comparison between two unlike things by saying one thing is another (without using "like" or "as").

Example: "Time is a thief."

Hyperbole

An extreme exaggeration used to make a point or emphasize a feeling, not meant to be taken literally.

Example: "I have a million things to do today."

Alliteration

The repetition of the same starting consonant sound in a series of words close together.

Example: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers."

Simile

: A comparison between two different things using the words "like" or "as".

Example: "She was as brave as a lion."

Onomatopoeia

A word that imitates or reproduces the actual sound it describes.

Example: "The bees buzzed as the clock ticked."

Irony

A situation or statement where the actual outcome or meaning is the exact opposite of what is expected.

Example: A fire station burning down.

Symbolism

Using an object, person, color, or place to represent a deeper meaning beyond its literal definition.

Example: A dove representing peace, or a red rose representing love.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch) to create a clear picture in the reader's mind.

Example: "The crisp golden leaves crunched underfoot while the scent of warm cinnamon filled the chilly autumn air."