Figures of Speech and Literary Devices

Questions and Answers

What distinguishes a metaphor from a simile in literary devices?

Both use the words 'as' or 'like'.

A metaphor includes a direct comparison.

A metaphor does not use comparative words. (correct)

A metaphor is an exaggerated statement.

Which literary device involves attributing human characteristics to nonhuman entities?

Personification (correct)

Juxtaposition

Euphemism

Hyperbole

What is the primary purpose of using hyperbole in writing?

To emphasize feelings through exaggeration. (correct)

To introduce an indirect reference.

To provide a factual statement.

To express a clearly defined comparison.

In what way does irony commonly manifest in literary works?

Through stark contrasts between reality and expectations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of juxtaposition in literature?

It enhances emotional impact through contrasting elements. Signup and view all the answers

Which example best illustrates the concept of alliteration?

Sally sells seashells by the seashore. Signup and view all the answers

What literary purpose does an epigraph serve in a work?

To introduce thematic elements through a referenced quote or passage. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of oxymoron in literary devices?

Bitter sweet. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes allusion from other literary devices?

It refers to familiar figures, events, or ideas outside of the text. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement represents a euphemism?

He has passed away. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Figures of Speech/Literary Devices

Literary devices enhance writing by expressing ideas and improving narrative.
They highlight important concepts and foster connections between readers and characters/themes.

Simile

A comparison using "like" or "as".
Example: "She is vicious as a lion."

Metaphor

Describes actions or objects in non-literal terms.
Example: "The clouds are soft cottons in the sky."

Personification

Assigns human-like qualities to nonhuman entities or abstract concepts.

Hyperbole

An exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally.
Example: "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse."

Irony

Highlights contrast between reality and appearance.
Example: A man tasting his wife’s meal & claiming, "I shall never eat this again."

Allusion

An indirect reference to an external figure, place, event, or idea.
Example: "Stop acting so smart—it's not like you're Einstein or something."

Juxtaposition

Comparing and contrasting two or more different ideas or characters.
Example: "A Tale of Two Cities" opens with "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."

Euphemism

A mild or indirect term used instead of a harsh or blunt one.
Example: "I'm so sorry, but he didn't make it" as a softer way to say someone died.

Oxymoron

A combination of contradictory terms.
Examples include "deafening silence," "organized chaos," and "bittersweet."

Epigraph

A quotation or short text inserted at the beginning of a larger text.
Example: "Lawyers, I suppose, were children once." from "To Kill a Mockingbird."

Alliteration

A series of words starting with the same sound.
Example: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers."

Symbolism

Represents deeper meanings through objects, figures, or events in literature.
Example: In "The Great Gatsby," the green light symbolizes Gatsby's hope and dreams.

Description

This quiz covers various figures of speech and literary devices that enhance writing and storytelling. Explore concepts like simile, metaphor, personification, and more, with examples to test your understanding. Perfect for literature students looking to deepen their grasp of these essential tools.