Idiom A phrase whose meaning cannot be understood from the dictionary definitions of each word taken separately. It’s raining cats and dogs! Money doesn’t grow on trees!
The comparison of one thing to another using the words, like or as. Simile The comparison of one thing to another using the words, like or as.
Metaphor The comparison of one thing to another. One thing is said to actually be another. Can be directly stated or implied.
Giving human traits to non-human creatures or objects Personification Giving human traits to non-human creatures or objects
Overstatement or exaggeration. Hyperbole Overstatement or exaggeration.
Use of words that are similar to the sounds that they represent. Onomatopoeia Use of words that are similar to the sounds that they represent.
A repetition of the beginning consonant in a phrase or sentence. Alliteration A repetition of the beginning consonant in a phrase or sentence.
Saying one thing when you mean another. Verbal Irony Saying one thing when you mean another. “Oh! Great job with the paint!”
When the audience knows something that the character does not. Dramatic Irony When the audience knows something that the character does not.
The use of one object to represent something else. Symbolism The use of one object to represent something else.
The use of words to create a picture using the senses. Imagery The use of words to create a picture using the senses.
Placing two objects side by side for comparison or contrast. Juxtaposition Placing two objects side by side for comparison or contrast.
The duplication of any element of language; sounds, words, or phrases. Repetition The duplication of any element of language; sounds, words, or phrases.
Saying something is the best or greatest of a group of things. Superlative Saying something is the best or greatest of a group of things.
JUMBO SHRIMP!! Oxymoron A use of two terms together that are opposite of or contradict each other.
A part of an object is used to represent the whole object. Synecdoche Nice Wheels!! A part of an object is used to represent the whole object.
Rhyme The repetition of identical or similar sounds, often at the ends of lines of poetry.
A story with a second meaning. The entire story is built of symbols. Allegory A story with a second meaning. The entire story is built of symbols.
When reality is different from what was expected. Situational Irony When reality is different from what was expected.
Allusion A brief reference to an outside person, event, story, or other work of art.