What is Figurative Language — Definition, Types & Examples

What is figurative language

First, let’s define figurative language

Although there are several types of figurative language, a working definition of the term is incredibly helpful in understanding what is, and what it isn’t. Using figurative language in your writing creates meaning and emotional resonance. So what does figurative language mean? 

What does figurative language mean 

Figurative vs. Literal Language 

If you’re still grasping to understand what figurative language is, it can be helpful to know what the opposite is. When you use literal language, you’re using the words in your writing to express exactly what they mean. This writing style is helpful for academic and instructional writing, but if you’re crafting a creative narrative, it can get dense and dull quickly. 

Here’s a video that breaks down the differences between figurative and literal language: 

By using figurative language, you’re creating a new and deeper meaning with your words. Striking a balance between figurative and literal language in your writing is essential – you want your readers to understand what you’re saying with literal language, yet for them to connect with your work, utilizing figurative language is helpful. 

Figurative Language Examples 

Types of Figurative Language 

There are several different types of figurative language that you can use to add more depth and meaning to your writing. Let’s touch on the main ones and provide a few examples as a refresher:

SIMILE 

A simile makes a comparison between two things using the words “like” or “as”. 

For example, “She was as pretty as a flower.”

METAPHOR 

A metaphor is a comparison that compares two things that are not normally or obviously comparable. Unlike simile, metaphor also doesn’t use the prepositions “like” or “as”.

For example: “Time is a thief”. 

PERSONIFICATION

Personification is the process of giving human characteristics to inhuman creatures, objects, or concepts. 

For example, “The wind howled all night.”

ALLUSION 

When you use allusion in your writing, you reference another, typically widely known literary work, historical event, figure or idea. 

For example, “His pride was his Achilles heel.” 

HYPERBOLE 

Hyperbole deliberately exaggerates a thought or sentiment in order for emphasis and/or effect. 

For example, “I was so hungry I could eat a horse”. 

IDIOM

An idiom is a phrase whose implied meaning isn’t directly tied to its literal meaning. It tends to be a culturally specific way to express certain notions or ideas. 

For example, telling someone to “Hold your horses” when you mean for them to slow down or cool off. 

OXYMORON 

An oxymoron combines two contradictory ideas into a single phrase. 

For example, “The crowd watched in a deafening silence.” 

What is figurative language 

How to Use Figurative Language 

Now that we know what figurative language is and its different forms, how do we incorporate it into our own writing? First things first, you don’t want to overuse figurative language. Although too much literal language in your writing can make for a dull read, too much figurative language can result in your reader being unable to understand your work. 

A great way to start using figurative language in your writing is to start simple with one comparison and build from there. For instance, if you compare a character’s anger to a storm, you can extend the metaphor by saying that their tears fell from their eyes like raindrops. You don’t necessarily need to detail all the ways in which their anger is stormlike however, since then you run the risk of belaboring your point and slowing down your story. 

Also, linking a character’s journey to a specific metaphor or symbol that you return to throughout the work is another fantastic way to build resonance and speak to the broader themes in your writing. 

Here’s our video on the figurative language of metaphor in film: 

Furthermore, it’s important to avoid clichés  when you employ figurative language. We all know “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” or “My tears could flood an ocean” Challenge yourself to come up with new ways to express and illustrate the emotions in your work beyond the clichés will make your writing stronger and more potent. Think of how you can show a character’s emotion rather than tell the readers. 

It’s also important to consider tone when choosing which types of figurative language to employ in your writing. Hyperbole works well in comedy, yet feels discordant in a grounded drama. Similarly, using a somber metaphor could bring down the mood and pace of a comedy. 

Up Next

7 Types of Figurative Language 

Overall, figurative language is one of the best weapons a writer can have in their creative arsenal. Figurative language allows you to get specific and to put the reader in your character’s shoes, so that they not only understand and enjoy your writing, but remember it for years to come. Now that we’ve answered “What is figurative language?”, it’s time for a deeper dive into the different types of figurative language you can incorporate into your writing. Our next post dives into the different types and figurative language examples to help you identify and distinguish them from each other. This way, you’ll have seven more weapons to further strengthen your writing.  

Up Next: 7 Types of Figurative Language →