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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

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 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

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figurative

IPA:

How to pronounce figurative (audio)

Dictionary definition of figurative

Using words, images, or symbols in a way that conveys a deeper, symbolic meaning beyond their literal interpretation.
"The poet used figurative language to convey his emotions in a powerful way."

Detailed meaning of figurative

It is the opposite of literal, which describes the use of words in their exact or primary sense. Figurative language is a way to convey meaning beyond the literal meaning of words, and it can include figures of speech such as metaphor, simile, and personification. For example, "The world is a stage" is a metaphor, it doesn't mean that the world is literally a stage, but that the world is a place where people play different roles, similarly "He has a heart of stone" is a metaphor that doesn't mean that the person literally has a stone heart, but that he is cold and unemotional. Figurative language can also include idiomatic expressions, such as "biting the bullet" which means to face a difficult situation bravely. It can be used in literature, poetry, and everyday speech to create imagery, add depth to the meaning, and make the language more interesting and engaging. Overall, figurative refers to the use of words or expressions in a non-literal sense, in order to create a more vivid or expressive image, and is a way to convey meaning beyond the literal meaning of words.

Example sentences containing figurative

1. Her figurative language painted vivid mental images.
2. The poem was filled with rich, figurative expressions.
3. Figurative art often challenges viewers to interpret symbolism.
4. His figurative speech left room for multiple interpretations.
5. In literature, allegory is a form of figurative storytelling.
6. Figurative elements in the painting conveyed emotion.

History and etymology of figurative

The adjective 'figurative' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'figurativus,' which is derived from 'figurare,' meaning 'to form' or 'to shape.' The term 'figurative' originally referred to the use of language, imagery, or symbols that were employed to shape or create a mental picture. Over time, it came to represent the use of words, images, or symbols in a way that goes beyond their literal or straightforward interpretation, conveying deeper and often symbolic meanings. The etymology of 'figurative' underscores the concept of shaping or forming meaning through creative and symbolic language, highlighting its role in artistic, literary, and rhetorical expression where words and symbols are used to craft vivid and imaginative representations of ideas and concepts.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective figurative:

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Further usage examples of figurative

1. Figurative language adds depth to storytelling.
2. The metaphor was a powerful figurative device.
3. Figurative speech in the play conveyed hidden truths.
4. Figurative expressions can evoke strong emotions.
5. She appreciated the subtlety of figurative poetry.
6. The use of figurative imagery enriched the song's lyrics.
7. Figurative art invites viewers to explore deeper meanings.
8. The novelist excelled at crafting figurative descriptions.
9. Figurative language can enhance communication.
10. Figurative representations in the sculpture revealed themes.
11. The figurative use of color in the painting conveyed mood.
12. The novelist used figurative elements to create atmosphere.
13. Figurative storytelling often captivates readers.
14. The figurative language used in the speech inspired many.
15. The writer employed a variety of figurative devices to create a vivid description of the scene.
16. The artist used figurative art to express her ideas and feelings in a visual form.
17. The politician's speech was filled with figurative language, designed to sway the audience's emotions.
18. The teacher explained the figurative meaning of the idiom to her students.
19. The dancer's movements were a beautiful example of figurative expression through body language.
20. The cartoonist used figurative illustrations to convey a complex political message in a humorous way.
21. The musician used figurative lyrics to tell a story and connect with the audience.
22. The author used figurative descriptions to create a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere in the novel.
23. The playwright used figurative dialogue to explore the characters' inner thoughts and emotions.
24. The filmmaker used figurative visuals to create a stunning and unforgettable cinematic experience.
25. The comedian used figurative humor to poke fun at societal norms and human behavior.

Critical and Analytical, Communication and Expression, Complexity and Intricacy, Inventive and Inspired, Words and Language, Language and Expression 1

abstract,florid,representative,symbolic

descriptive,imaginative,metaphorical,poetical

metaphorical, literal, straightforward, direct

eb68db_26724a50bc5844a6a9fca4c74353a029.mp3

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