Figurative language: Difference between revisions

Figurative language uses words and/or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. Literal language would be used to simply state the facts as they are presented. On the other hand figurative language would use the many parts of speech to convey or to make a particular point. Figurative language is most commonly seen in nonfiction, poetry, prose, and other forms of written work. Writers can use figurative language in comparing two things in such a way that is interesting or by using words that have unusual constructions or sounds. It can also be used to give a new perspective on a word. Using figurative language enables writers to express themselves more clearly by engaging readers with a more explicit approach. Figurative language is especially useful in creative writing, such as poetry and prose, because it is more imaginative that literal language and offers readers a vivid image of what the writer is trying to say.  

=Types of Figurative Language:=

Example: "You were a gray beret and the whole being at peace."  –Pablo Neruda

Example: "He was black as night and as fast as light." –Ernest Hemingway

 

 

 

A humorous play on words achieved by manipulating the meaning of a single word or phrase usually executed in one of two ways: by using homophones, which are two words with similar sounds, or homographs, which are two words that are spelled the same but that have different meanings. Often used for comedic effect, but are also used to demonstrate a substantial vocabulary and clever wordplay.  

Example: You can tune a guitar, but you can't tuna fish. Unless of course you play bass. (The homophonic pun is "tuna" which sounds like "tune a" and the homographic pun is "bass" which is spelled the same whether it is referring the the fish or the musical instrument.)

An indirect reference to something that is used to convey a specific idea or meaning without offering any additional information, implying a basic understanding of the expression being used.  

Example: “Though I have seen my head (grown slightly bald) brought in upon a platter / I am no prophet” –T.S. Eliot, The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock (A biblical allusion that references John the Baptist.)

Something that appears to be contradictory but that is presented as being true.

Example: “I must be cruel only to be kind.” –William Shakespeare, Hamlet