FIGURE SPEECH Meaning and
Definition
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Figure speech, also known as a figurative speech or figure of speech, refers to a linguistic device used in communication that goes beyond the literal meanings of words by utilizing vivid and imaginative expressions. By deviating from the conventional or ordinary patterns of language, figure speech aims to create a deeper, more impactful, and memorable effect on the listener or reader.
There are several types of figure speech, including metaphors, similes, personifications, hyperboles, and idioms. Metaphors involve making a direct comparison between two unrelated things to highlight their similarities. Similes, on the other hand, use the words "like" or "as" to draw a comparison. Personifications attribute human attributes or qualities to non-human entities, making them easier to understand. Hyperboles are used to exaggerate or overstate something to emphasize its importance or impact. Idioms are expressions or phrases that have meanings that cannot be deduced from the individual words used, making them specific to a language or culture.
Overall, figure speech serves to enrich and enhance language by amplifying emotions, creating strong images, and adding depth and richness to communication. It helps to connect the words used with the intended meanings, making language more engaging, persuasive, and artistic. Figure speech is commonly used in literature, poetry, speeches, and everyday conversations, providing a creative and colorful way to express ideas and evoke powerful emotions.
Common Misspellings for FIGURE SPEECH
- digure speech
- cigure speech
- vigure speech
- gigure speech
- tigure speech
- rigure speech
- fugure speech
- fjgure speech
- fkgure speech
- fogure speech
- f9gure speech
- f8gure speech
- fifure speech
- fivure speech
- fibure speech
- fihure speech
- fiyure speech
- fiture speech
- figyre speech
- fighre speech
Etymology of FIGURE SPEECH
The phrase "figure of speech" is commonly used in English to refer to various rhetorical devices or stylistic techniques where words or phrases are used in a non-literal way to create an effect.
The term "figure" in this context comes from Latin "figura", which means shape, form, or figure. In rhetoric, a "figure of speech" is essentially a way to shape or mold language to convey meaning beyond a straightforward literal interpretation. These figures add beauty, emphasis, or impact to the language used.
The phrase "figure of speech" in English can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was used to describe the use of various rhetorical techniques in writing or speaking. Over time, it has become a standard phrase to encompass all the different rhetorical figures used in language.
