Different Types of Figurative Language
A comparison of two unlike things using the words "like" or "as."
What is a Simile?
A textbook chapter explaining the life cycle of a butterfly.
What is to Inform?
This type of clue provides a word with the same meaning, such as: "The story was brief; it was very short."
What is a synonym?
The most important thought or central point the author wants to share.
What is the main idea?
This term refers to the most important point the author is making about a topic.
What is the main idea?
A direct comparison that states one thing is another, such as "The snow is a white blanket."
What is a Metaphor?
A political speech titled "Why You Should Vote for Me."
What is to Persuade?
You use this clue when a sentence provides a word's opposite, like: "Unlike the huge dog, the cat was tiny."
What is an antonym (or contrast)?
A short version of a text that includes only the most important details.
What is a summary?
In a well-written paragraph, the main idea is often clearly stated in this specific sentence?
What is the topic sentence?
Giving human qualities or characteristics to non-human objects or animals.
What is Personification?
A comic book about a superhero saving a city from a giant robot.
What is to Entertain?
In the sentence "The arid desert had no water and very few plants," these three words act as the context clue.
What are "no water" and "few plants"?
The reason an author writes, such as to persuade, inform, or entertain.
What is the author's purpose?
These are the specific facts, examples, or details that prove or explain the main idea.
What are supporting details?
An extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect, like saying "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse."
What is a Hyperbole?
A billboard advertisement showing a juicy burger with the price listed.
What is to Persuade?
This type of clue gives a specific instance of the word: "He enjoys citrusfruits, such as oranges and lemons."
What is an example?
Using clues from the text and your own knowledge to make a smart guess.
What is an inference?
To find the main idea when it isn't stated, you must look at the details and do this—essentially "reading between the lines."
What is inferring (or making an inference)?
Words that imitate the natural sounds of a thing, such as "hiss," "buzz," or "bang."
What is Onomatopoeia?
A travel brochure that lists flight times, hotel rates, and local historical dates.
What is to Inform?
Based on the sentence "The precariousladder wobbled every time he took a step," this is the definition of precarious.
What is unstable(or dangerous/shaky)?
Words or phrases around an unknown word that help you figure out its meaning.
What are context clues?
This is a short statement that covers the main idea and key points of a text, but leaves out minor details.
What is a summary?