Classify figures of speech: euphemism, hyperbole, oxymoron, paradox
Key notes :
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive.
A euphemism is a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasise an unpleasant topic.
The head of Human Resources would never refer to sacking people, only to laying them off.
Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally.
I ate so much that I think I might explode!
An oxymoron is a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms.
Some reviewers are calling this book a new classic.
A paradox is a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth.
Always expect the unexpected.
Learn with an example
🤜 Which figure of speech is used in this text?
The Turner family is going to spend two weeks in Paris, but for Harry it will be a working holiday, since he’ll be checking in with the office every day.
- euphemism
- oxymoron
The text uses an oxymoron, a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms.
Working holiday is a contradiction, because going on a holiday implies that you are taking a break from work.
🤜 Which figure of speech is used in this text?
My sister always wears at least five pieces of jewellery, but I prefer to follow the guideline ‘Less is more.’
- euphemism
- paradox
The text uses a paradox, a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth.
Less is more at first appears to be contradictory, since less and more are opposites. However, it contains some truth: by removing something or scaling back, you can sometimes achieve a more complete or pleasing outcome.
🤜 Which figure of speech is used in this text?
I must have eaten too much of Cameron’s homemade pasta, because now I’m so full I could explode!
- oxymoron
- hyperbole
The text uses hyperbole, an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally.
So full I could explode is an exaggeration, since it is clear that the speaker is not actually in danger of exploding.
let’s practice!
