Figurative language includes figures of speech, such as similes ("she's been like a sister to me") and metaphors ("a storm of protest"). And sometimes it's hard to tell whether a phrase is literal …

FIGURATIVE definition: of the nature of or involving a figure of speech, especially a metaphor; metaphorical and not literal. See examples of figurative used in a sentence.

Figurative art is based on the shapes of real objects. Figuratively speaking, negotiators succeeded in building a bridge over a wide river in reaching this agreement. Then again, he …

A concise definition of Figurative Language along with usage tips, an expanded explanation, and lots of examples.

not in its original, usual, literal, or exact sense; representing one concept in terms of another that may be thought of as analogous with it; metaphoric in “screaming headlines,” the word …

1. a. Based on or making use of figures of speech; metaphorical: figurative language. b. Containing many figures of speech; ornate. 2. Represented by a figure or resemblance; …

Definition of figurative adjective in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Jun 20, 2025 · Explore figurative language in English with clear definitions, types, and examples of similes, metaphors, idioms, and more to improve writing and speaking skills.

Of language or meaning: differing from the literal use or sense; metaphorical.

FIGURATIVE meaning: 1 : used with a meaning that is different from the basic meaning and that expresses an idea in an interesting way by using language that usually describes something …