Literary TermsLiterary Terms

•Metaphor: A comparison of two unlike things that have something in common

–The clear lake was a mirror reflecting the clouds.

•Simile: A metaphor using “like” or “as”

–The lake was like a mirror.

• Irony: The contrast between what we expect and what actually happens–He was so busy helping other people

study that he did not study himself and failed the test.

• Alliteration: The repetition of initial consonant sounds–Come quickly, Ken!–She sells sea shells down by the sea

shore.

• Hyperbole: exaggeration to make a point–My backpack weighs a ton!

• Personification: Giving human qualities to an inanimate object–The wind screamed all night.

• Onomatopoeia: Words that imitate the sounds they refer to--The bacon sizzled and crackled in the

pan.

•Foreshadowing: Hints and clues that tip the reader off as to what is to come later in the story

–Nothing bad had happened…yet.•Tone: The writer’s attitude towards his or her subject–Examples: amused, objective, angry, etc.

•Mood: Atmosphere or feeling that a literary work conveys to the reader.–Examples: scary, happy, tension, anticipation, suspenseful

• Understatement: when a writer or speaker deliberately makes a situation seem less important or serious than it is. (opposite of hyperbole)– It’s only 32 degrees below zero outside. Just

a bit chilly.

• Euphemism: A phrase used in place of something disagreeable or upsetting – He passed away.– She has a bun in the oven.– I need to use the facilities (restroom).

• Exposition: Characters, setting and conflict are introduced.

• Rising Action: Conflict begins to develop producing interest and suspense.

• Climax: The turning point of the story; character(s) in conflict must make a decision.

• Falling Action: Loose ends are beginning to be tied up.

• Resolution: Story comes to a reasonable ending.