Figurative Language

Figurative Language

What is it? Figurative language is language that communicates meanings beyond the literal meanings of the words. Words are often used to symbolize ideas and concepts they would not otherwise be associated with.

Why do writers use it? To create effects

To emphasize ideas To evoke emotions

Which type of figurative language is this quote an example of? “America was different. America was a river, roaring along, unmindful of the past. I could wade into this river, let my sins drown to the bottom, let the waters carry me someplace far. Someplace with no ghosts, no memories, and no sins.” The Kite Runner (pg. 219)

Metaphor A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two things that are basically unlike but have something in common. Can you find another example of metaphor in the novel?

Which type of figurative language is this quote an example of? “The blast echoes through the street of my father’s house. Hassan slumps to the asphalt, his life of unrequited loyalty drifting from him like the windblown kites he used to chase.” The Kite Runner (pg. 219)

Simile A simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two things using the word “like” or “as.”

Can you find another example of simile in the novel?

Which type of figurative language is this quote an example of? “That was a long time ago, but it’s wrong what they say about the past, I’ve learned, about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out.” The Kite Runner (pg. 1)

Personification A personification is a figure of speech in which human qualities are given to an object, animal, or idea. Can you think of another example of personification?

This quote contains metaphors that are also an example of which other type of figurative language? “My father was a force of nature… hands that looked capable of uprooting a willow tree, and a black glare that would drop the devil to his knees begging for mercy…” The Kite Runner (pg. 12-13)

Hyperbole A hyperbole is a figure of speech in which the truth is exaggerated for emphasis or humorous effect.

Can you think of another example of hyperbole?

Cliché A cliché is a word or phrase regarded as having lost its freshness and vigor through overuse. Clichés are the hallmark of mediocre writing.

Good writers avoid clichéd language and instead, use original word choice and imagery.

Idiom An idiom is a common figure of speech whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of its words.

Many clichés are idioms. Many idioms are clichés.

Prompt: Turn to page 197 in The Kite Runner Read the paragraph that begins “A creative writing teacher…”

What are the four clichés?

Create one clear alternative expression and one original alternative expression for each cliché. 1. “avoid them like the plague” Clear- avoid them assiduously Original- avoid them like a dieter stays away from sweets 2. “got a bum rap” Clear- got treated unfairly Original- were treated like Japanese Americans after Pearl Harbor 3. “they’re dead on” Clear- they’re accurate Original- a lightning rod of truth 4. “elephant in the room” Clear- the uncomfortable fact that everyone is politely trying to ignore Original- the homeless man begging for change