Meaning of Figures of Speech
A figure of speech is a word or phrase that has a meaning different than its literal meaning. It can be a metaphor or simile that is designed to further explain a concept. Or, it can be a different way of pronouncing a word or phrase such as with alliteration to give further meaning or a different sound.
Figurative language is more effective and more vivid than ordinary or literary language.
Uses of Figures of speech
Figures of speech are used to perform the following:
- Create images, pictures.
- Lay emphasis on certain events.
- Satirize or ridicule bad occurrences.
- Decorate, overstate or exaggerate, and
- Make feelings properly appreciated.
Kinds of Figures of Speech
- Mixed metaphor: It is the emerging of two metaphors. Examples: a. taking up arms against the sea of trouble. B. civilization kicked us in the face.
- Parallelism: It is a form of repetition used in order to reveal what has been said in a different form, all meaning the same thing. Example: a. ’How dull it is to pause, to make an end’
- Personification : It is defined as the transfer of the quality of animals and inanimate objects to human beings. Examples: a. confusion heard his voice b. Let the floods clap their hands.
- Paradox: It is a figure of speech in which truth is conveyed under the cloak of apparent contradiction. Example: The ripest fruit was saddest. B. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it.
- Epigram : It is a brief statement that usually introduces an antithetical idea. It closely resembles proverb. Examples: a. more haste; less speed. B. Know then thyself, presume not God to scan…
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