Figurative Language: What is it and why should you use it?

Figurative language: What is it and why should you use it?

Does your speech or writing lack the ability to evoke interest? Well, most of us play it quite safe when it comes to speaking or writing in English (understandably so)! It’s not easy putting yourself out there! However, we often forget that in order to create something that leaves a lasting impression, one needs to be a little bold and dare I say, even dramatic! One such element that can instantly grab the interest of your audience is something called figurative speech.

In the realm of figurative language, the aim is to captivate rather than bore. This artful language infuses everyday English with elements of fun, drama, or emotion. Consider phrases like “She’s as busy as a bee!” or “Her eyes shined like stars”—examples of figurative speech that add flair and engagement to communication. 

If you’re looking to harness this captivating essence in your newsletters, public speeches, book writing, or even your letters and emails, you’ve come to the right place. This blog post serves as your guiding compass on the journey toward mastering figurative language. Let’s dive in!

5 Types of figurative language you need to know

Simile: A simile serves as a powerful tool for drawing parallels between dissimilar elements, allowing for vivid comparisons within phrases, words, or sentences. By employing words such as ‘as’ or ‘like,’ similes establish connections that enhance depth and clarity. For instance, in the iconic Disney movie Beauty and the Beast, the tagline “a tale as old as time” employs a simile to convey the enduring nature of the story, likening it to the agelessness of time itself.

Some more examples of sentences using similes are:

-“The news hit him like a ton of bricks.” (The person felt strong emotions after reading the news.)
-“She feels as free as a bird.”(She felt the same amount of freedom that a bird feels when it flies in the open sky.)
-“That person ran like lightning.” (The person was running so fast just like how quickly the thunder of lightning descends upon the sky.)

Metaphor: A metaphor serves as a potent device for conveying abstract ideas or concepts by drawing parallels between unrelated entities. Unlike similes, which use ‘like’ or ‘as’ to make comparisons, metaphors directly equate one thing with another, often in a figurative sense. This allows for rich and nuanced descriptions that evoke vivid imagery and deeper meaning. For example, in Shakespeare’s famous line “All the world’s a stage,” the metaphor compares life to a theatrical performance, suggesting that we all play various roles on the grand stage of existence. Let’s take a look at some examples:

-“I’m drowning in a sea of grief.” (The person’s level of sadness is compared to the deepness of the sea)
-“The silence was a thick blanket enveloping the room.” (The silence was heavy and all-encompassing, akin to a thick blanket.)
-“His words were arrows, piercing through the armor of my heart.” (His words were sharp and penetrating, like arrows breaking through protective barriers.)

Personification: Personification breathes life into inanimate objects or abstract concepts by attributing human characteristics to them. Unlike metaphors, which directly equate one thing with another, personification imbues non-human entities with human qualities, fostering a deeper connection between the reader and the subject. This literary device enriches descriptions, allowing for a more vivid portrayal of emotions, actions, and surroundings. For instance:

-“The wind whispered secrets through the trees.” (The wind, an inanimate object, is given the human quality of whispering.)
-“The sun smiled down upon the earth.” (The sun, typically considered an inanimate celestial body, is described as smiling.)
-“The flowers danced in the gentle breeze.” (Flowers, which do not possess the ability to dance, are given human-like movement.)

Alliteration: Alliteration serves as a literary device that enhances the rhythm and musicality of language by repeating the initial consonant sound in a series of words within close proximity. Unlike personification, which imbues non-human entities with human qualities, alliteration focuses on the repetition of sounds to create emphasis, cohesion, and resonance in a text. This technique adds a layer of texture and cohesion to the writing, drawing attention to specific phrases and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. For instance:

“Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.” (The repetition of the ‘p’ sound creates a playful and rhythmic effect.)
“She sells sea shells by the sea shore.” (The repetition of the ‘s’ sound mimics the sound of waves and evokes a sense of rhythm.)
“Betty Botter bought some butter, but she said the butter’s bitter.” (The repetition of the ‘b’ sound emphasizes the tongue-twisting nature of the phrase.)

Hyperbole: Hyperbole serves as a powerful literary device that exaggerates or overemphasizes a statement for emphasis, effect, or humor. Unlike alliteration, which focuses on the repetition of sounds, hyperbole amplifies the magnitude or intensity of a description to create a dramatic or exaggerated effect. This technique allows writers to make bold statements, convey strong emotions, or illustrate extreme situations in a memorable and impactful way. For instance:

“I’ve told you a million times to clean your room!” (The hyperbolic statement of “a million times” exaggerates the frequency of the request to emphasize frustration.)
“I’m so hungry I could eat a horse!” (The hyperbolic expression of being “so hungry” exaggerates the intensity of hunger by comparing it to the ability to consume an entire horse.)
“Her smile is as bright as the sun.” (The hyperbolic comparison of a smile to the brightness of the sun amplifies the joy and radiance conveyed by the smile.)

How To Use Figurative Language?

Limited use: Although figurative speech adds intrigue, it’s crucial not to overdo it. Place figurative sentences where they fit naturally, ensuring they enhance rather than overwhelm your message. Remember, figurative language isn’t solely for grabbing attention; it’s also for vividly describing people, things, or situations. Maintain balance by interspersing simple, direct sentences with figurative ones to achieve clarity and depth.

Understand your audience: Figurative language offers immense flexibility, allowing you to craft sentences that are simple, complex, humorous, poignant, or thrilling—it’s entirely up to you how you shape your message. However, it’s crucial to use the appropriate figurative language for the context. For instance, if your audience is comprised of children, opt for simplicity over complexity. Conversely, if your readers are proficient in English, feel free to be bold and adventurous with your word choice.

Gain inspiration: Navigating the intricacies of figurative language may initially feel daunting. If you’re unfamiliar with this expressive tool, seeking guidance from experts is advisable. Dive into books, explore online videos, or enroll in an English Language Course Online to refine your skills. Embrace the inevitability of mistakes in the learning process, knowing that with perseverance, you’ll gradually master the art of figurative speech. It’s all about the journey, my friends!

Final thoughts

Mastering figurative language empowers you to elevate your sentences with remarkable potency. Through skillful application, you enable your audience to vividly visualize your ideas through the evocative power of words. Embrace experimentation in your writing journey, infusing it with the spark of figurative language to captivate and enthrall your readers!

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Further Reading

Mastering the art of intonation: A guide to effective communication

From above to below: Understanding the different prepositions of place

Mastering transitional words: How to give your writing a seamless flow

Demystifying the present perfect tense: From confusion to clarity

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How to train your brain to think in English

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