Literal & Non-literal Language
- Literal Language means the use of words & phrases that reflect their definitions in the dictionary. The words & the meaning are exactly what they say.
- Non-literal language means the use of words & phrases that mean one thing but are used to describe something else.
Let’s see some examples:
LITERAL LANGUAGE |
NON-LITERAL LANGUAGE |
1. Rain very hard | 1. Having butterflies in the stomach |
2. Feeling nervous | 2. Hit the hay |
3. Sell quickly | 3. Spill the beans |
4. Tell a secret | 4. Rain cats & dogs |
5. Go to sleep | 5. Sell like hotcakes |
6. Leave very fast | 6. Shake a leg |
What is Figurative Language?
Figurative language is one of the ways of expressing ourselves that does not restrict to a word’s real meaning. It is used to give a creative edge to written or spoken language or when we have to explain a complicated idea. Fiction writers often are seen using figurative language to engage their audience by using a more creative tone which provokes thinking & at times humor. This makes fiction writing interesting & dramatic. Figurative language refers to a way of expressing oneself by not using a word’s realistic meaning. Common in comparisons & exaggerations, it is usually used to add creativity to written or spoken language or to explain a complicated idea.
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