Literary devices are techniques that one can use to convey a message, create an impact and enhance the quality of overall writing. They are a vital part of the English curriculum. However, using them can be complex when you are composing an essay with different techniques. So, you can seek online English assignment help from academic experts.
Literary devices are general ways to use language to deliver a message with impact. You may have identified it in Shakespeare's compositions and other texts where the author compares rocks to humans. This is what literary devices are for. This article aims to explore the ten standard literary devices along with examples to clarify them better.
What are Literary Devices?
But first, what exactly are literary devices? They are tools to use a language in a better way and are called figurative or linguistic devices. These include similes, metaphors, idioms and others that you may have heard.
They intend to express ideas and evoke emotions in the minds of readers. Also, it adds depth to an essay and demonstrates its main themes and meaning. They also help with plot and character development. Now that you know what literary devices are, let's explore the most common types with illustrative examples.
Common Literary Devices With Examples
Literary devices are tools that one uses to enhance their essays and engage the audience. These tools add depth and meaning to a piece of work. Also, it helps to create vivid imagery and evoke emotions. It also shapes your style of writing. In this section, you will explore some of the most popular literary devices. Also, you will discover a breakdown of their definition with examples in a simplified way. It will help you to recognise them in literature.
Alliteration
It describes a series of words in a quick manner. All words start with the same letter or sound. Also, it adds a pleasing rhythm and playfulness to the text.
Example: Sally swiftly sailed the sparkling sea.
The 's' sound here is repeated, creating a rhythm that is pleasant to read and speak.
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is an exaggerated sentence. It is used to emphasise a point or convey strong emotions. Also, it is not meant to be taken in a literal sense but serves to create impact or humour.
Example- I have told you a million times.
Here, a million times is an exaggerated phrase.
Idiom
An idiom is a statement whose meaning cannot be understood from the literal meaning. They are culturally specific and convey a figurative meaning that is widely understood.
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Example: He kicked the bucket last night.
It means he passed away last night and not literally kicked the bucket.
Imagery
It involves the use of descriptive language and a descriptive image in the minds of readers. Also, it appeals to the senses like sound, taste, smell or touch to make a text more immersive.
Example: The scent of fresh rain mingled with the earthy aroma of damp soil, filling the cool evening air.
It creates vivid imagery and appeals to your senses. You start imagining.
Irony
Irony is a contrast between reality and expectations. It happens when something turns out to be the opposite of what was expected. Also, there are different types of irony, such as verbal, situational, etc.
Example: She won the lottery and then lost the ticket.
The irony lies in the fact that she won the lottery ( good luck) and then lost the ticket (bad luck).
Metaphor
A metaphor is a tool that compares two different things, as if they were the same, although they are not. It adds depth and meaning as it links a familiar concept to a less tangible one.
Example- the classroom as a zoo in the last period.
It compares the chaotic classroom to a zoo. It does explicitly mention people as animals, though.
Oxymoron
An oxymoron is a tool that places two contradictory terms to create a paradoxical effect. Also, it highlights contrast, surprise and irony within a phrase.
Example- A deafening silence filled the room.
The deafening silence implies two opposite concepts of noise and quietness to intensify the silence.
Personification
It is a figurative speech that gives human qualities to non-living objects. It intends to make them relatable and vivid. Also, it helps readers connect emotionally with the subject by giving it human actions or feelings.
Example: The moon smiled down on the quiet town.
In this, the moon is personified as giving a warm smile even though it literally cannot.
Rhetorical Question
A rhetorical question is something that is asked for a dramatic effect. It does not seek a literal answer from readers. Also, it engages the audience and emphasises a point without a response.
Example: Are we the sole bearers of climate change?
It seeks an answer to whether we are the only ones causing climate change.
Synecdoche
Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part represents the whole. It is used to simplify or make the language more vivid. You can also seek help from experts of instant assignment help to simplify concepts which are complex to you.
Example: The village celebrated with music, dancing and a feast.
The term 'village' is used to represent the people.
Conclusion
To sum up, literary devices are essential tools for enhancing writing and creating more profound meaning in literature. But if you are unsure where to start, you can seek online English assignment help.
Literary devices allow writers to express complex ideas, evoke emotions, and engage readers in a more impactful way. By understanding these devices, you can better appreciate the nuances in literary works. If you ever find it challenging to apply these techniques, seeking expert help can guide you in improving your writing skills.
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