simile
a comparison of two unlike things using "like," or "as
metaphor
a direct comparison of two unlike things not using "like," or "as
alliteration
the repetition of the same initial consonant sound in a series of words
allusion
a reference to a person, place, event form history, literature or the arts
hyperbole
an exaggeration that cannot possibly be true
oxymoron
a phrase whose words contradict each other with opposite meanings
idiom
a group of words whose collective meaning is quite different from their literal meaning; saying or expression
personification
giving human qualities to non-human things
onomatopoeia
the use of words whose sounds suggest their meaning
The coins were plinking into the can.
example of onomatopoeia
That movie is seriously hilarious.
example of oxymoron
He told me he's going to Disney World, but I think he's just pulling my leg.
example of idiom
Mom said she would raise my allowance when pigs fly.
example of idiom
I could eat a horse.
example of hyperbole
Sheridan shuffled along the shag rug.
example of alliteration
The child was an angel.
example of metaphor
If Mozart were here, he couldn't have performed any better.
example of allusion
Don't you dare deliver these doughnuts before the meeting!
example of alliteration
The laundry danced on the line.
example of personification
Clara's dress is like a beautifully decorated cake.
example of simile