Figurative Language

One meaning of figure is drawing, or image, or picture.  Figurative language creates drawings or pictures in the mind of the reader.  These pictures help convey the meaning better than words alone.

Figurative language is the opposite of literal language.  Literal language means exactly what it says.  Figurative language means something different to (and usually more than) what it says on the surface.

He ran fast. (literal)

He ran like the wind. (figurative)

Four common types of figurative language:
1.  metaphor
2.  simile
3.  personification
4.  hyperbole