Figures of Speech Quiz

Questions and Answers

A ______ is a figure of speech that compares two things using 'like' or 'as'.

simile

A ______ describes something in non-literal terms, transforming its meaning.

metaphor

______ gives human-like qualities to nonhuman entities.

Personification

A statement such as 'I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse' is an example of ______.

hyperbole Signup and view all the answers

The use of ______ involves a contrast between reality and appearance.

irony Signup and view all the answers

______ occurs when a writer makes an indirect reference to a person or event.

Allusion Signup and view all the answers

______ is the literary device that contrasts two different ideas or elements side by side.

Juxtaposition Signup and view all the answers

Using a phrase like 'he didn't make it' instead of 'he died' is an example of a ______.

euphemism Signup and view all the answers

An ______ is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms.

oxymoron Signup and view all the answers

An ______ is a quotation or passage placed at the beginning of a text.

epigraph Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Figures of Speech/Literary Devices

Literary devices enhance writing by expressing ideas, emphasizing important concepts, and connecting readers to characters and themes.
Each device serves a unique function that enriches storytelling and communication.

Simile

Compares two different things using "as" or "like."
Example: "She is vicious as a lion."

Metaphor

Describes objects, ideas, or actions in non-literal terms, creating a direct comparison.
Example: "The clouds are soft cottons in the sky."

Personification

Attributes human-like qualities to nonhuman figures or abstract concepts, making them relatable.

Hyperbole

Utilizes exaggerated statements for emphasis, not meant to be taken literally.
Example: "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse."

Irony

Highlights contrasts between reality and appearance, often leading to unexpected outcomes.
Example: A man enjoying his wife's cooking exclaims, "I shall never eat this!"

Allusion

Makes indirect references to figures, places, events, or ideas from outside the text.
Example: "Stop acting so smart—it's not like you're Einstein or something."

Juxtaposition

Involves comparing and contrasting different ideas or characters to highlight differences.
Example: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times" from Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities.

Euphemism

Replaces harsh or blunt terms with milder expressions to convey sensitivity.
Example: "I'm so sorry, but he didn't make it" as a gentler way of saying someone has died.

Oxymoron

Combines contradictory terms to create a striking effect or unique meaning.
Examples: "Deafening silence," "organized chaos," "bittersweet."

Epigraph

Introduces a text with a relevant quotation, poem, or passage to set the tone or theme.
Example: "Lawyers, I suppose, were children once" as the epigraph for To Kill a Mockingbird.

Alliteration

Features a series of words or phrases starting with the same sound, enhancing rhythm and memorability.
Example: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers."

Symbolism

Uses an object, figure, or event to represent broader concepts, adding depth to the narrative.
Example: In The Great Gatsby, the green light symbolizes Gatsby's hope and dreams.

Description

Test your knowledge on various literary devices and figures of speech! This quiz covers essential concepts like similes and metaphors, helping you enhance your writing skills and understanding of narrative techniques. Discover how these devices can enrich your reading and writing experience.