Figurative Language Definitions Quiz

Questions and Answers

Match the following literary terms with their definitions:

Oxymoron = A combination of two opposite or contradictory terms. Hyperbole = An obvious exaggeration that should not be taken literally. Pun = A humorous play on words often involving double meaning. Euphemism = A polite word or phrase used in place of one that may be too direct, unpleasant, or embarrassing. Cliché = An expression that has lost its power or originality from overuse. Idiom = An expression with a meaning different from the literal meaning of the individual words. Irony = The difference between the way things seem to be and the way they really are. Symbolism = An object or action that means more than its literal meaning, an object that stands for something else. Tone = The writer's attitude toward his or her subject. Satire = Writing that ridicules or makes fun of people's mistakes or weaknesses, often addressing political or social issues. Allusion = A reference to a character, place, or situation from another work of art, literature, or from history. Point of View = The angle from which the story is told that depends upon the narrator or person telling the story.

Study Notes

Literary Devices and Terms

Oxymoron: Combines contradictory terms (e.g., "deafening silence") to create a unique expression.
Hyperbole: An obvious and intentional exaggeration that should not be interpreted literally (e.g., "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse").
Pun: A form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings for humorous effect (e.g., "Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana").
Euphemism: A mild or indirect word or expression used in place of one that may be considered harsh or blunt (e.g., "passed away" instead of "died").
Cliché: A phrase or idea that has become overly familiar and bland due to excessive use, losing its original impact (e.g., "better late than never").
Idiom: A common expression whose meaning is not derived from the literal interpretation of its words (e.g., "kick the bucket" meaning to die).
Irony: The contrast between appearance and reality, often highlighting a discrepancy between what is expected and what actually occurs (e.g., a fire station burns down).
Symbolism: The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities, where an object or action represents something beyond its literal meaning (e.g., a dove as a symbol of peace).
Tone: The writer's attitude toward the subject, which can be conveyed through word choice and style (e.g., sarcastic, serious, or playful).
Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms, often highlighting political or social issues (e.g., political cartoons).
Allusion: A brief reference to a person, place, event, literary work, or historical figure, enriching the text by drawing connections with familiar concepts (e.g., referencing Shakespeare in a modern story).
Point of View: The perspective from which a story is narrated, determining how events are perceived by the audience; can be first-person, third-person, etc. (e.g., first-person "I" vs. omniscient narrator).

Description

Test your knowledge of figurative language with this quiz on various terms such as oxymoron, hyperbole, pun, and euphemism. Each definition provides insights into these literary devices that enhance language and communication. Challenge yourself to match the definitions correctly!