Hyperbole
Definition
Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement or claim that is not meant to be taken literally. It is often used for emphasis or to create humor.
Analogy
Imagine you're telling your friend about how hungry you are after skipping breakfast. Instead of saying "I'm really hungry," you say "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse!" This exaggeration helps convey just how famished you feel.
Related terms
Simile: A figure of speech that compares two things using "like" or "as."
Metaphor: A figure of speech that directly equates two unrelated things.
Understatement: The opposite of hyperbole, it involves downplaying something for ironic effect.
"Hyperbole" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (2)
Additional resources (3)
Practice Questions (4)
- What impact does hyperboles have on the meaning and interpretation of a poem?
- Which of the following is true about hyperboles in poetry?
- What is the purpose of using hyperbole in poetry?
- What impact can hyperbole have on the interpretation of a poem?
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