Remember to focus on revision, not on editing or proofreading.

hold the paper up against the assignment criteria.

Figure of Speech Definition Effect Example Alliteration Repetition of single letters at the beginning of words. Gives a poetic, flowing sound to words. Dana danced down the drive daintily. Analogy The comparison of familiar and unfamiliar ideas or items by showing a feature they have in common. Makes an unfamiliar idea or item easier to understand. Writing a book is like raising a toddler. It takes all your time and attention, but you’ll enjoy every minute of it! Hyberbole A greatly exaggerated point Emphasizes the point I must have written a thousand pages this weekend. Idiom A group of words that carries a meaning other than the actual meanings of the words. A colorful way to send a message. I think this assignment will be a piece of cake. Metaphor An overall comparison of two ideas or items by stating that one is the other. Adds the connotations of one compared idea to the other compared idea. This shirt is a rag. Onomatopoeia A single word that sounds like the idea it is describing. A colorful way to describe an idea while adding a sense of sound. The jazz band was known for its wailing horns and clattering drums. Personification Attributing human characteristics to nonhuman things. Adds depth such as humor, drama, or interest. The spatula told me that the grill was just a little too hot today. Simile Using the word “like” or “as” to indicate that one item or idea resembles another. A colorful way to explain an item or idea. Hanging out with you is like eating watermelon on a summer day.