The figure of speech is an important part of the English language. Children are taught the applications of figures of speech from an elementary level. The figure of speech is used to understand different concepts and how those concepts can be expressed by comparing one thing with something else. The figure of speech helps learners advance their vocabulary and inspire analytical and comprehensive skills by learning from its examples. The figure of speech is typically a phrase or a word used to denote something other than the literal meaning of the word or words used.
Figure of Speech
Some common applications of figures of speech are literary devices such as similes and metaphors. A figure of speech is typically used to clarify, emphasise or embellish certain things in the written and spoken vocabulary. The figure of speech is abundant in prose, poetry, oral traditions, and other forms of writing and has been in use for a long time. Most of this is formed through the extension of existing words and pushing the boundaries of their meaning and uses. In many European languages, the figure of speech is divided into 5 classes. These classifications are a part of linguistic and literary studies. The figure of speech examples has been provided for clarity.
Uses of Figure of Speech
The figure of speech is used in many circumstances. Some of those have been listed:
- A figure of speech is a part of figurative language that helps learners and readers visualize or conceptualise what is being written, said and heard.
- It is used to invoke a feeling of realism in our minds, of interests, experiences, colours, and sparks of imagination.
- It also helps clarify, embellish, or emphasize a particular phrase, feeling, or situation.
- Figurative uses are opposite of literal language is used in juxtaposition in literature and speeches to create a certain kind of effect
A figure of Speech Examples
The figure of speech examples helps understand learners and readers what it is and how it can be understood and used. The article has discussed what figure of speech is, now through the figure of speech examples, its applications will be studied.
- They were swept up by the wind overnight. (disappeared)
- Kiara was as brave as a lion.
- It had been raining cats and dogs for days on end in this month.
Classification of Figure of Speech
In common grammar, or at the basic level, there are essentially ten types of figures of speech that is used:
- Onomatopoeia
- Hyperbole
- Metaphor
- Apostrophe
- Personification
- Simile
- Euphemism
- Alliteration
- Anaphora
- Irony
Synecdoche is also a part of the figure of speech. Other little less-known figures of speech used in common parlance are litotes, rhetorical questions, and hyperbole. Apart from this, there are classifications of the figure of speech as well:
- Figures of sound
- Figures of relationship
- Errors
- Emphasis
- Verbal games
Conclusion
The figure of speech is a crucial part of learning the English language. An interesting thing about the figure of speech is that it is not only limited to the English or the European languages but is present in all languages. The figure of speech adds a special kind of zest to the way language is spoken and understood. It is especially a very important part of writing skills related to literature. For students, learning about the figure of speech is essential in their academic curricula. In fact, it can be a very exciting learning exercise for them.