The word hyperbole, from a Greek word meaning “excess,” is a figure of speech that uses extreme exaggeration to make a point or show emphasis. It is the opposite of understatement. You can find hyperbole examples in literature and everyday speech Show
Hyperbole DefinitionThere is exaggeration, and then there is exaggeration. That extreme kind of exaggeration in speech is the literary device known as hyperbole. Take this statement for example: I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse. In truth, you wouldn’t be able to eat a whole horse. But you use the phrase to show people you’re extremely hungry. Hyperbole is used in literature, rhetoric and everyday speech. You wouldn’t want to use it in nonfiction works, like reports or research papers. Still, it’s perfect for creative writing and communication, especially when you want to add color to a character or humor to a story. Hyperbole vs. Metaphor and SimileHyperboles are not comparisons, like similes and metaphors, but they are extravagant and even ridiculous overstatements not meant to be taken literally. In literature, hyperbole will often be used to show contrast or catch the reader's attention. How to Use Hyperbole to Add EmphasisHyperbole in writing and speech can add a dramatic or serious effect to a statement depending on how it’s used. To make sure your hyperbole adds the emphasis you are looking for, keep a few things in mind:
Now that you know what to think about when adding hyperbole to your work, see how hyperbole adds emphasis.
In truth, the game isn’t actually taking forever, and the helmet isn't killing anyone, but adding that wording is more creative. Now explore a few more everyday examples.
Hyperbole in Everyday UseIn these common, everyday examples of hyperbole, you’ll see the sentiment isn’t realistic, but it helps to stress the point.
Hyperbole ExamplesWhile you use hyperbole in everyday speech all the time, it’s also a great literary device for songs, speeches and advertising. See a few successful examples of hyperbole. Hyperbole in SpeechesWhen hyperbole is carefully placed into a speech, it can help you really punch your points. A tiny bit of exaggeration may be enough to perk up the ears of your audience.
Hyperbole in SongsSimilar to a well-delivered speech, hyperbole can help paint a vivid picture or express a strong emotion in the lyrics of a song.
Hyperbole in AdvertisingIf used properly, hyperbole can encourage consumers to buy products. There has been limited research into this area, but according to a 2007 study by Mark A. Callister, Ph.D. & Lesa A. Stern, Ph.D., The Role of Visual Hyperbole in Advertising Effectiveness, found that "hyperbolic ads produce more ad liking than nonhyperbolic ads." Examples of hyperboles in advertising include:
Accentuate and ExaggerateRemember, hyperbole is over the top and not meant to be taken literally. Keep your ears open for examples of these exaggerations in every source, from poetry and plays to everyday conversations and commercials. Try using hyperbole yourself to show contrast or inject feeling and humor into your writing.
And, while you’re at it, enjoy some examples of hyperbole in literature. When used appropriately, a hyperbole’s effect is purposeful and emphatic, causing the reader to pay attention. Just be careful not to overdo the overstatement! What is the effect of the hyperbole as it is used here?Hyperbole is effective when the audience understands that you are employing hyperbole. When using hyperbole, the intended effect isn't to deceive the reader, it's to emphasize the magnitude of something through exaggerated comparison.
Which sentence contains an example of an oxymoron?I really would like to try that new jumbo shrimp restaurant. His new girlfriend really is pretty ugly. Sorry, I can't help you out right now, I am involved in my own minor crisis. Give me the fifty dollars you owe me or pay for dinner, it's the same difference.
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