Figurative Language Study Guide

Alliteration

The repetition of the same beginning sound in more than two words.

Simile

A comparison of two unlike things using “like”, “as”, or “than”.

Metaphor

a comparison of two different things without using “like”, “as”, or “than”

Onomatopoeia

a word that sounds like the noise or action it is describing.

Hyperbole

an obvious exaggeration

Personification

makes a non-human thing seem human 

Allusion

a brief mention of something or someone well known

Idiom

a word or phrase that is used differently than its intended use

Metaphor

The bar of soap was a slippery eel during the dog’s bath.

Personification

The rain kissed my cheeks as it fell gently from the clouds.

Simile, hyperbole

Paying bills is like having your teeth pulled. 

Simile, hyperbole, alliteration

Carissa moved as slowly as a sloth on a hot day.

Idiom

Do I have to be the first one to break the ice at this party? 

Allusion

She’s a good swimmer, but she’s no Ariel. 

Alliteration

The sailboat sailed through stormy seas.

Onomatopoeia, personification

The lawnmower roared to life when my mom started the engine. 

Idiom, hyperbole

Chris couldn’t eat another bite; he was stuffed to the gills! 

Metaphor

My grandmother is an angel because she bakes cookies every time I visit.

Onomatopoeia

Her teeth chattered as she trudged through the snow.

Simile

The giant’s steps sounded like thunder as he ran toward Jack. 

Allusion

Shana has that mysterious Mona Lisa smile. 

Idiom

I’m not sure why that man has such a chip on his shoulder.

Metaphor, maybe hyperbole

He’s a wild animal on the soccer field.