Figurative Language Flashcards
Allegory
An extended narrative that carries a “deeper meaning” along with the surface story; the character represents abstract ideas or moral qualities; often uses metaphor and symbolism. (Example: Biblical Parables)
Allusion
A reference to a historical event, person, symbol, or literary work
Dramatic Irony
Where a character unknowingly behaves in a manner opposite what is expected in a situation, often because the audience/reader knows more than the character does, a double vision of what is happening.
Hyperbole
The use of exaggeration for effect or form humour. (The pie crust was so tough, we needed an axe to divide it.)
Imagery
Using symbols or figures of speech to create images in the reader’s mind (often appeals to the five senses).
Irony
A situation or use of language that involves some sort of discrepancy. Irony deals with opposites.
Litotes
Understatement (opposite of a hyperbole)
Metaphor
Comparison stating one thing “is” another, not using “like” or “as”.
Paradox
A statement of situation which contains elements that apparently contradict or are incompatible. Paradox often shocks the reader and is effective because of its shock value. Paradox deals with logical conflict.
Personification
Attributing life-like or human qualities to something inanimate or non-human. (The rainbow dances a jig)
Simile
Comparison of two things using like or as (if you don’t know what this is you are going to fail the test)
Situational Irony
An incongruity between the actual circumstances and those that would seem appropriate (an Olympic swimmer drowns in the bathtub)
Symbol
Something that stands for something else.
Verbal Irony
An expression in which the intended meaning is hidden; where what is meant is opposite of what is said (I love studying for LA)
Speaker
The narrator of the poem
