Descriptive Language & Imagery
Figures of Speech
Word Meanings and Interpretations
Sound and Expression
Common Language and Writing Devices
100

Producing clear, powerful, and detailed images or impressions in writing.

What is vivid?

100

A figure of speech comparing two things using "like" or "as."

What is a simile?

100

This word means very old or outdated, no longer in common use.

What is archaic?

100

This word describes a strong, unpleasant smell or taste caused by decomposition, often in fats or oils.

What is rancid?

100

Giving human qualities to non-human things.

What is personification?

200

Very hot, especially enough to burn or cause pain.

What is scalding

200

A figure of speech that describes something by saying it is something else.

What is a metaphor?

200

The emotional or cultural meaning associated with a word beyond its dictionary definition.

What is connotation?

200

A word that imitates the sound it represents.

What is onomatopoeia?

200

The literal or dictionary meaning of a word.

What is denotation?

300

Dark, gloomy, or serious in tone or mood.

What is somber?

300

A statement that exaggerates something for emphasis or effect.

What is hyperbole?

300

The choice and use of words in speech or writing.

What is diction?

300

The use of irony to mock or convey contempt.

What is sarcasm?

300

The omission of words in a sentence, often indicated by three dots (...).

What is an ellipsis?

400

A term relating to the senses of sight, hearing, touch, taste, or smell.

What is sensory?

400

A figure of speech combining two contradictory terms.

What is an oxymoron?

400

A phrase whose meaning is different from the literal meaning of its individual words.

What is an idiom?

400

A situation or expression where the opposite of what is expected occurs or is said.

What is irony?

400

An overused phrase or idea that has lost its originality or impact.

What is cliché?

500

This word describes something that emits or reflects light; shining brightly.

What is luminous?

500

Placing two things close together to highlight their differences or similarities.

What is juxtaposition?

500

A mild or indirect word or phrase used to replace a harsh or unpleasant one.

What is a euphemism?

500

To echo or resound repeatedly.

What is reverberate?

500

The type of language used by a particular group or profession that may be hard for outsiders to understand.

What is jargon?