English Figures of Speech

Metaphor in English language is a figure of speech where we compare two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'. They create a bright imaginary picture in the mind of the reader by using sensory details and descriptive language. For example: He has a heart of gold. (describing a person to be extremely kind, generous and empathetic).

Students can go for the following books to study personification:

Reverse Personification flips the concept of Personification that assigns animal, inanimate, or other non-human traits to human beings. Reverse personification can be used to explore themes, critique societal norms, or create thought-provoking narratives. For example:

·       She is as tall as a tree.

·       He has a heart of stone.

Personification is always figurative it's not intended to be taken literally. Personification uses human qualities or behaviors that would be appropriate for the object or concept being personified. Personification in language should enhancing imagery, making a concept more relatable, or creating a specific mood.

Personification, is an important literary tool in English language that gives human characteristics to nonhuman things or inanimate objects. The nonhuman things can be animals, objects, or even a concept. The human characteristics given to these things can be emotion, behavior, or actions that bring nonhuman things to life. For example, 'The light danced on the surface of water'. Here the light (non-human) is being said to be dancing, a characteristic of human.

The primary purpose of Figures of Speech is to be more creative and expressive with the language or communication. It also improves the reader experience. Figures of Speech are also to enhance and elevate the language. Moreover, it also adds depth and clarity for the readers. Last but not the least, Figures of Speech adds a touch of humour and comic relief and at times a dramatic effect, which are important components to garner and retain readers' attention.

There are a number of Figures of Speech which are similar to each other but have a subtle difference. Students often get confused between the two, but the confusion and common errors can be mitigated by understanding the differences and regular practice. Some such Figures of Speech are as follows:

·       Simile, Metaphor and Personification

·       Oxymoron and Paradox

·       Paradox and Antithesis

·       Hyperbole and Understatement

·       Apostrophe and Invocation.

There are broadly over 20 types of Figures of Speech. While around 12 are commonly used in day-to-day communication, rest are used specifically for literature elements such as poems, drama or plays, etc.

Some of the most common Figures of Speech are as follows:

·       Simile

·       Metaphor

·       Personification

·       Hyperbole.

This is not the exact or absolute list, but are among the commonly used Figures of Speech.