a figure of speech

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a figure of speech" is correct and usable in written English.
A figure of speech is an expression that uses words in a non-literal way to create a vivid impression or make a point. Examples include metaphors, similes, hyperboles, and personification. For example: The sunset was a brilliant painting in the sky, a beautiful figure of speech.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is not a figure of speech".

The New Yorker

Maybe that's just a figure of speech".

The New York Times

This isn't entirely a figure of speech.

The New Yorker

It was just a figure of speech.

The Guardian - Sport

It is more than a figure of speech.

The New York Times

The iron curtain was more than a figure of speech.

The Guardian - Books

That's not, it turns out, a figure of speech.

The Guardian

Then she said that was only a figure of speech.

The Guardian

Assuming that "stomach" was a figure of speech.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even the anecdotes always turn on a figure of speech.

The Guardian - Books

It is not a figure of speech, a literary genre.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a figure of speech", ensure the context makes it clear that you are not using literal language. This avoids confusion and strengthens your communication.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a figure of speech" is always intended to be humorous or dismissive. Understand the specific type of figure of speech used (e.g., simile, metaphor, irony) to accurately interpret its intended meaning and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a figure of speech" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a type of expression deviating from literal meaning. It is frequently used to clarify that a statement should not be interpreted literally, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

22%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a figure of speech" is a commonly used phrase to denote expressions that deviate from literal meaning. As Ludwig confirms, it functions as a noun phrase with a neutral register, suitable for a broad range of contexts. Its primary function is to signal non-literal intent, inviting the audience to interpret the statement in a metaphorical or symbolic manner. While commonly found in news and media, it also appears frequently in academic settings. Being mindful of the different figures of speech and their proper interpretation helps in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

non-literal language

Directly states the use of language beyond its literal interpretation.

metaphorical language

Similar to figurative expression, emphasizing the use of metaphors.

figurative expression

Emphasizes the expressive quality and non-literal nature of the language used.

rhetorical device

Focuses on the technique employed to persuade or convey meaning effectively.

literary trope

Highlights the recurring patterns or motifs used in literature to create meaning.

symbolic language

Suggests that the language is used to represent deeper meanings or concepts.

expression of speech

Broader term encompassing various ways language is used to convey ideas.

idiomatic expression

Focuses on the use of idioms, which are phrases with established non-literal meanings.

verbal metaphor

Highlights the use of metaphors in spoken or written language.

stylistic device

Emphasizes the technique used to create a particular style or effect.

FAQs

How is "a figure of speech" used in a sentence?

The phrase "a figure of speech" is used to indicate that an expression should not be taken literally. For example, "Saying he was drowning in paperwork was "a figure of speech", he simply had a lot of documents to process".

What's an example of "a figure of speech"?

Common examples include metaphors like "time is money", similes like "as brave as a lion", and hyperboles like "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse".

Which is correct, "figure of speech" or "figurative language"?

"Figure of speech" and "figurative language" are often used interchangeably, but "figurative language" is a broader term that encompasses all types of non-literal language, while "a figure of speech" refers to specific instances.

What can I say instead of "a figure of speech"?

You can use alternatives like "figurative expression", "rhetorical device", or "literary trope" depending on the specific context.