Figurative Language

Figurative language is simply language that uses figures of speech to convey ideas.  It is a way of describing things or people or events by comparing it to something else.

Simile is a comparison of two things using like or as. "I was as sleepy as a bear. "

Metaphor is a comparison of two things by creating a direct comparison. "I was a load of bricks."

Personification is giving human characteristics to nonhuman things. "The branches leaned with the weight of ice."

Metonymy is one word or phrase that is a part of something standing for the whole. "We'll have to take this to Washington for approval." Washington is referring to our government. "Nice wheels." Wheels are standing for the entire car.

Hyperbole is exaggeration used to evoke strong feelings or effect. "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse!"

Idioms are a form of speech that are peculiar to a specific region. "I'm building my nest egg." Nest egg is referring to a retirement account, but some regions may not recognize this meaning.

Clichés are expressions that are so overused they become trite. "I'm dead as a door nail."

Analogy, like simile and metaphor, is a comparison between two things that are alike. Analogies are usually longer than a simile or metaphor and are used to explain an unfamiliar thing by comparing it to a familiar thing.