Denotation
The dictionary definition of a word
denotation example
The word blue means the colors blue but the connotation of blue would be sad.
Connotation
an idea or feeling that a word invokes in addition to its literal or primary meaning.
connotation example
pimp or pigheaded
Personification
A figure of speech in which an object or animal is given human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes
personification example
The stars danced playfully in the moonlit sky.
The ocean danced in the moonlight.
Animalification
attributing animal characteristics to something which is clearly not an animal
Animalification Example
A dog talking, a snake slithering, Peking at dinner
Deification
The act of worshiping or revering as a god
Deification Example
Someone like a coach or sports player can be deified because of how much someone can love the sport or what is taught.
Demonification
attributing devil-like or Satan-like characteristics to something which is clearly not a devil or Satan
Demonification
When people say sugar is bad for you and can make you fat but in reality your body needs sugar, just not too much.
Paradox
a self contradicting statement or idea that leads to a logical conclusion
paradox example
Less is more
Oxymoron
a figure of speech that contradicts itself when but together
oxymoron example
jumbo shrimp
Synecdoche
A figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole, or the whole is made to represent the part
Metonymy
The substitution of a name of an attribute for that thing meant. Something is used to represent something related to it.
Metonymy Example
The White House: In place of White House staff or president
Simile
A comparison using "like" or "as
simile example
He is as hungry as a horse
Metaphor
a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.
metaphor example
He was a stainless steel ruler, tall, straight and always measured in response.
colon
Commonly used to introduce to introduce quotes or a list
semicolon
a punctuation mark (';') used to connect independent clauses