"Figures of Speech and Literary Devices": Understanding the Difference

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Figures of speech and literary devices are different, though they are closely related.

Figures of Speech

Figures of speech are specific types of expressions used to create a particular effect in language. They involve a deviation from the normal meaning or arrangement of words to make language more vivid, creative, or persuasive. Examples include metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, and irony.

For example:

  • Metaphor: "Time is a thief." (Time is indirectly compared to a thief.)
  • Simile: "Her smile was as bright as the sun." (A direct comparison using "as.")

Literary Devices

Literary devices are broader techniques used in literature to enhance storytelling, structure, and meaning. Figures of speech are a type of literary device, but literary devices also include other elements such as plot, theme, foreshadowing, imagery, symbolism, and alliteration.

For example:

  • Foreshadowing: A hint about future events in a story.
  • Imagery: Descriptive language that appeals to the senses.
  • Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words, like “sweet summer breeze.”

Difference

  • Figures of speech focus on specific expressions that change the normal use of words.
  • Literary devices include a wider range of techniques used to enhance storytelling and style.

All figures of speech are literary devices, but not all literary devices are figures of speech.



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