Looking for synonyms for figurative language? We’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of other ways to say figurative language.
- Metaphorical expression
- Symbolic language
- Poetic language
- Imagery
- Similes and metaphors
- Rhetorical devices
- Allegory
- Euphemism
- Hyperbole
- Personification
- Idioms
- Analogies
- Allusions
- Tropes
- Irony
Want to learn how to say figurative language professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.
1. Metaphorical Expression
Use ‘metaphorical expression’ when a phrase is used to symbolize a broader concept or idea.
Example: “Describing the stock market as a ‘rollercoaster’ is a common metaphorical expression in finance.”
2. Symbolic Language
‘Symbolic language’ is appropriate when using symbols or imagery to convey deeper meanings.
Example: “In her speech, the leader used symbolic language to depict the company’s journey as a ‘ship braving the stormy seas.’”
3. Poetic Language
Use ‘poetic language’ for expressive, imaginative, and rhythmical composition, often found in literature and speeches.
Example: “His retirement speech was filled with poetic language, reflecting on the ‘tapestry of achievements’ woven over the years.”
4. Imagery
‘Imagery’ is used when creating a visual, sensory experience with words.
Example: “The advertisement used powerful imagery, painting the product as a ‘gateway to adventure.’”
5. Similes and Metaphors
Use ‘similes and metaphors’ for direct or indirect comparisons to illustrate an idea or concept.
Example: “In marketing, we often use similes and metaphors, like ‘as busy as bees’ to create relatable brand messages.”
6. Rhetorical Devices
‘Rhetorical devices’ are techniques used in writing or speaking to persuade or create a memorable impact.
Example: “His presentation was effective, utilizing rhetorical devices such as repetition and alliteration for emphasis.”
7. Allegory
Use ‘allegory’ for a narrative that has a deeper meaning beneath the surface story, often moral or political.
Example: “The CEO’s allegory of ‘the sun and the wind’ was used to illustrate different leadership styles.”
8. Euphemism
‘Euphemism’ is suitable for replacing direct, harsh, or unpleasant words with more gentle or vague expressions.
Example: “In corporate communications, ‘downsizing’ is often a euphemism for layoffs.”
9. Hyperbole
Use ‘hyperbole’ for exaggerated statements that are not meant to be taken literally, often for effect.
Example: “His claim that the new product would ‘revolutionize the world’ was a hyperbole to create buzz.”
10. Personification
‘Personification’ involves giving human characteristics to non-human entities.
Example: “The brand personifies its products, referring to them as ‘your loyal companions on every journey.’”
11. Idioms
Use ‘idioms’ for phrases that have a figurative meaning different from their literal meaning.
Example: “The manager said, ‘Let’s not beat around the bush,’ urging direct communication.”
12. Analogies
‘Analogies’ are used to make a comparison between two things for clarification or explanation.
Example: “He used the analogy of a ‘ship’s captain’ to describe a project manager’s role.”
13. Allusions
Use ‘allusions’ to make indirect references to a known concept, work, or event.
Example: “Her speech included an allusion to Shakespeare, calling the new strategy ‘the undiscovered country.’”
14. Tropes
‘Tropes’ are commonly recurring literary and rhetorical devices, motifs, or clichés.
Example: “The trope of ‘David and Goliath’ is often used in business to describe small companies competing against giants.”
15. Irony
Use ‘irony’ for expressing meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, often for humor or emphasis.
Example: “It was ironic that the cybersecurity expert fell victim to a phishing scam.”
