Literary Devices

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What are Literary Devices?

A **literary device** is a technique a writer uses to produce a special effect in their writing. They are used to make stories more interesting and to help readers understand ideas in new ways.

The most common literary devices we'll learn about are **similes**, **metaphors**, **personification**, **hyperbole**, and **symbolism**.

1. Simile

A **simile** is a comparison between two different things using the words **"like"** or **"as"**.

• He was as quiet as a mouse.
• She swam like a fish.

2. Metaphor

A **metaphor** is a direct comparison between two different things, without using "like" or "as." It says that one thing **is** another thing.

• Ali is a walking dictionary.
• Time is money.

More examples: "His heart is gold." "The city is a beehive." "The classroom is a zoo."

3. Personification

**Personification** is giving human qualities or actions to inanimate objects or animals.

• The trees danced in the wind.
• The stars winked in the night sky.
• The grey clouds cried drops of rain.

4. Hyperbole

**Hyperbole** is an exaggeration used for effect. It is a statement that is not meant to be taken literally.

• His brain is the size of a pea.
• I have told you a million times not to lie!

5. Symbolism

**Symbolism** is when an object, idea, or action is meant to represent something else, adding a deeper meaning.

• The color **red** symbolizes love.
• The color **black** symbolizes death.

Quiz Time!

Test your knowledge of literary devices.

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