Figurative Language
Figurative language is very important, as it embellishes the text, enhances the clarity of concepts, and helps in creating a visual image of ideas. However, the inappropriate or excessive use of figurative language can cause misunderstanding and loss of interest by the audience. This discussion explores the most common types of figurative language, their appropriate use, examples and the effect of using them inappropriately.
An idiom is an expression comprising of two or more words whose meaning is different from that of the individual words. The functions of idioms are to express complicated ideas more clearly and create clear mental images. An example of an idiom is ‘kick the bucket’. This idiom is used appropriately to indicate that someone has died. The use of idioms can lead to misunderstanding when the constituent words are separated. For example, explaining ‘kick the bucket’ literally could mean to strike a cylindrical vessel using a foot.
An analogy is a statement that compares two things in order to make a concept clearer. The purpose of an analogy is to compare a complex concept with a simpler one in order to create a visual representation and make it easier to understand (Weiner, 2004). An example of an analogy is ‘what antivirus software is to a computer, a vaccine is to a newborn.’ An individual who does not understand the functions of antivirus software will be able to understand it clearly by relating it to the functions of vaccines. Misunderstanding can occur when the concepts being compared are both complex and difficult to understand.
On the other hand, metaphors make implicit comparison between different objects with some common characteristics (Weiner, 2004). Metaphors compare two things but do not use words such as ‘as’ and ‘like’ (Utsumi, 2007). Metaphors enhance the understanding of concepts by relating them to familiar objects. An example of a metaphor is ‘Mary is a pig.’ The metaphor compares Mary to a pig to indicate that she is greedy. A misunderstanding can occur when writers use metaphors whose meaning they are not sure. Using incorrect metaphors can confuse the audience.
A simile compares two things or ideas but unlike metaphors, similes use words such as ‘as’ and ‘like’. Similes are used to compare two unlike things in order to explain them more clearly, express emotion and make speech more entertaining (Utsumi, 2007). An example of a simile is ‘as agile as a monkey’. This is used to mean that someone can move nimbly just like a monkey. Misunderstanding can occur due to incorrect use of the simile.
On the other hand, a cliché refers to a figure of speech that has been overused and is excessively familiar that its effectiveness has been eroded. Clichés may help in conveying complex ideas and enhancing understanding. However, clichés may irritate listeners and readers and weaken the effectiveness of the text. Clichés can be idioms, similes, catchphrases and metaphors. An example of a cliché is ‘icing on the cake’. This cliché indicates something that makes something good even better. This cliché has been overused and is irritating.
Amphiboly refers to ambiguity resulting from the grammatical construction of words. Amphiboly leads to having statements with several meanings and is used to create humor. An example of an amphiboly is ‘the policeman shot the man in his uniform’. This sentence is ambiguous as it is not clear who was wearing the uniform. Misunderstandings can arise in the use of amphiboly as the intended meaning is not clear.
A flame word is used with the aim of insulting another person. For example, ‘you are an idiot.’ Flame words can cause misunderstanding if the interpretation is not clear to the listener.
A hyperbole refers to a figure of speech, which uses exaggeration. The purpose of hyperboles is to make or emphasize a point as well as create humor (Weiner, 2004). An example of a hyperbole is ‘she ran like greased lightning’. This is used in sentences to mean that she ran very fast. Misunderstandings in the use of hyperboles can arise from excessive exaggeration.
Euphemism is the use of mild or indirect words or phrases to substitute harsh or offensive ones. The functions of euphemism include downplaying harsh facts, politely referring to taboo topics and avoiding vulgarity and rudeness. An example of euphemism is ‘he passed away’. This is a less harsh way of saying that he died. Misunderstandings can occur if the listener understands the words literally and the intended meaning is not understood.
Colloquialism refers to the use of certain phrases or words, which are only appropriate for informal or casual conversations or writing. The purpose of colloquialism is to form connections with the listeners or readers. An example of colloquialism is ‘he is going nuts’ which means that he is going insane. Misunderstandings in the use of colloquialism can arise when the listener is unable to interpret the words correctly.
Figurative language is important in helping individuals to express ideas in different ways. However, it should be used appropriately to serve the intended purpose. Figurative language should be avoided if it causes confusion, misunderstandings and hinders communication.
References
Utsumi, A. (2007). Interpretive Diversity Explains Metaphor-Simile Distinction. Metaphor & Symbol, 22(4), 291-312.
Weiner, R. (2004). Figuring out figures of speech. Public Relations Tactics, 11(1), 7.
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