Name _________________________________ Date _________________ Period ______
Understanding Figurative Language
SMAPHOS
Figurative language is a type of language that varies from the norms of literal language, in which words mean exactly what they say. Figurative language does not mean exactly what it says, but instead forces the reader to make an imaginative leap in order to comprehend an author's point. It enhances description in narrative writing and allows readers to enter the story because you are showing them instead of telling them.
Simile
A simile is a comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as.”
· The spider hung from its web.
· The spider was suspended from its thread like an acrobat on a tightrope.
Metaphor
A metaphor compares two unlike things without using “like” or “as.”
· The toothpicks were next to the appetizers.
· The toothpicks were toy soldiers, ready to spear the appetizers.
Alliteration
Alliteration is the repetition of two or more consonant sounds at the beginnings of words or syllables.
· He said he loved her.
· Silently sighing, he strongly swept her off her feet.
Personification
Personification gives human characteristics and traits to inanimate objects.
· The wind was loud.
· The wind whispered through my window, revealing night’s secrets.
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is a gross exaggeration, something that could never happen.
· If she lied to him one more time, he would be furious
· If she lied to him one more time, he knew his heart would explode.
Onomatopoeia
Onomatopoeia is a word that imitates sounds.
· The soda can opened.
· The soda can cracked open with a refreshing fizz.
Understanding Figurative Language
SMAPHOS
Figurative language is a type of language that varies from the norms of literal language, in which words mean exactly what they say. Figurative language does not mean exactly what it says, but instead forces the reader to make an imaginative leap in order to comprehend an author's point. It enhances description in narrative writing and allows readers to enter the story because you are showing them instead of telling them.
Simile
A simile is a comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as.”
· The spider hung from its web.
· The spider was suspended from its thread like an acrobat on a tightrope.
Metaphor
A metaphor compares two unlike things without using “like” or “as.”
· The toothpicks were next to the appetizers.
· The toothpicks were toy soldiers, ready to spear the appetizers.
Alliteration
Alliteration is the repetition of two or more consonant sounds at the beginnings of words or syllables.
· He said he loved her.
· Silently sighing, he strongly swept her off her feet.
Personification
Personification gives human characteristics and traits to inanimate objects.
· The wind was loud.
· The wind whispered through my window, revealing night’s secrets.
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is a gross exaggeration, something that could never happen.
· If she lied to him one more time, he would be furious
· If she lied to him one more time, he knew his heart would explode.
Onomatopoeia
Onomatopoeia is a word that imitates sounds.
· The soda can opened.
· The soda can cracked open with a refreshing fizz.
