figures of speech

USAGE SUMMARY

"figures of speech" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase that is used to describe the use of language to express ideas in a colorful and imaginative way. For example, "The Rolling Stones sang about 'Sympathy for the Devil', a figure of speech that expresses the idea of evil in a poetic manner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

ROBERT INDIANA: Figures of Speech.

The New York Times - Books

18.Use Figures of Speech Sparingly.

Stanford University

He offers confrontational figures of speech amiably.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Arabic language; figures of speech; early works to 1800.

Stanford University

I generally avoid complicated metaphors or figures of speech.

Stanford University

Turkish has many figures of speech about the evil eye.

The New Yorker

They're figures of speech, not figures in a landscape.

The Guardian - Books

Figures of speech are often introduced by "like" or "as".

The New Yorker

What she loved most of all were Figures of Speech.

The New Yorker

This fMRI study investigated the brain responses associated with figures of speech like puns.

NeuroImage

Analysis of literary language, including rhythm, meter, word order, narrative, and figures of speech.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "figures of speech" intentionally to enhance your writing and make it more engaging. Overuse can make your writing seem forced or artificial.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "figures of speech" should be interpreted literally. Understand the intended meaning based on context and cultural understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "figures of speech" functions as a noun phrase that refers to the use of language in a non-literal or figurative way. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use. These expressions are used to add color, emphasis, or emotional impact to writing or speech.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "figures of speech" is a correct and widely used term for describing non-literal language. Ludwig AI confirms this. It appears frequently in diverse contexts, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. To ensure clarity and impact, employ "figures of speech" thoughtfully, avoiding overuse or misinterpretation. Related phrases such as "figurative language" and rhetorical devices offer similar ways to express the concept. Remember to tailor your choice of expression to suit the register and context of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

figurative language

Focuses more directly on the linguistic aspect of using figures of speech.

rhetorical devices

Highlights the persuasive intent and structural components of the language.

literary devices

Emphasizes usage within a literary context, such as novels and poems.

tropes and schemes

Breaks down figures of speech into their classical rhetorical categories.

ornate language

Focuses on the decorative and elaborate nature of using figures of speech.

stylistic devices

Refers to the broader range of techniques used to create a particular style.

expressive language

Highlights the communicative and emotional impact of using figures of speech.

poetic language

Links figures of speech directly with poetry and its artistic qualities.

artful language

Emphasizes skill and craft in the use of language.

embellished language

Highlights the decorative aspect and enhancement figures of speech provide.

FAQs

How can I identify "figures of speech" in a text?

Look for expressions that deviate from literal meaning, such as metaphors, similes, or hyperboles. Understanding the context is crucial for identifying "non-literal language".

What is the purpose of using "figures of speech"?

They enhance writing by adding color, depth, and emotional impact. They can also make complex ideas more understandable and memorable by relating them to familiar concepts, for example the use of "metaphor".

Which "figures of speech" are most commonly used?

Common examples include metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole, and irony. The choice depends on the desired effect and the context of the writing or speech. See also: rhetorical devices

How do I avoid misusing "figures of speech"?

Ensure the chosen figure aligns with the tone and context of your writing. Overuse or inappropriate use can confuse or alienate your audience, also consider consulting a "style guide".