Figurative language includes figures of speech, such as similes ("she's been like a sister to me") and metaphors ("a storm of protest"). And sometimes it's hard to tell whether a phrase is literal or …

Figurative art is based on the shapes of real objects. Figuratively speaking, negotiators succeeded in building a bridge over a wide river in reaching this agreement. But in this instance, the allusion is …

1. a. Based on or making use of figures of speech; metaphorical: figurative language. b. Containing many figures of speech; ornate. 2. Represented by a figure or resemblance; symbolic or emblematic. …

Jun 20, 2025 · Figurative language is a departure from the literal meaning of words in order to achieve a special effect or meaning. It involves using words or phrases in a way that deviates from their …

not in its original, usual, literal, or exact sense; representing one concept in terms of another that may be thought of as analogous with it; metaphoric in “screaming headlines,” the word “screaming” is a …

(of language, words, phrases, etc.) used in a way that is different from the usual meaning, in order to create a particular mental picture. For example, ‘He exploded with rage’ shows a figurative use of the …

Sep 22, 2025 · figurative (comparative more figurative, superlative most figurative) Of use as a metaphor, simile, metonym or other figure of speech, as opposed to literal; using figures. quotations

Any figure of speech — a statement or phrase not intended to be understood literally — is figurative. You say your hands are frozen, or you are so hungry you could eat a horse.

A concise definition of Figurative Language along with usage tips, an expanded explanation, and lots of examples.

FIGURATIVE definition: of the nature of or involving a figure of speech, especially a metaphor; metaphorical and not literal. See examples of figurative used in a sentence.