Figurative Language Versus Literal Language
Aikins-Kouakou J Raymond
Professor Edward Campana
PHI 210 Critical Thinking
11/07/2013
Strayer University

Abstract
Figurative and Literal language is a distinction within some fields of language analysis. Figurative (Non-literal) language refers to words, and groups of words, that exaggerate or alter the usual meanings of the component words. Literal language refers to words that do not deviate from their defined meaning. Figurative use of language is the use of words or phrases in a manner where the literal meaning of the words is not true or does not make sense, but "implies a non-literal meaning which does make sense or that could be true". A literal usage is the "normal" meanings of the words. It maintains a consistent meaning regardless of the context, with "the intended meaning corresponding exactly to the meaning" of the individual words. It is important for one who speaks figuratively to take in consideration the audience might not be able to fully follow or understand them completely. Although figurative language can be entertaining, it can be interpreted in a way other that what was intended. Therefore, it will need some explanation.
Keywords: Figurative use of language is the use of words or phrases in a manner where the literal meaning of the words is not true or does not make sense, A literal usage is the "normal" meanings of the words.

Figurative Language versus Literal Language An idiom is a catchphrase (expression) that deviates from the usual meaning of the words used. Idioms would be nonsensical if taken in a literal context. For example, “don’t bring sand to the beach” is a clever way of telling someone not to take something that will already be supplied – such as taking alcohol to a bar. Using this idiom on someone not proficient in English would cause a delay in communication since the person would not understand the contextualization. They would be stumped and wonder why anyone would actually take sand to the beach in the first place. An analogy is a logical argument used to illustrate how two disconnected (disassociated, separate) things (concepts) share similar (certain) characteristics. This form of figurative language is used with the intent of helping individuals grasp the concept of complex (ideas). For example, a teacher might instruct a confused student to think of pizza slices when trying to solve fractions; pizza slices are something the student can easily compare and relate to. There are two subcategories of analogies: metaphors and similes. A metaphor is a figure of speech that is phrased more like a direct statement than a comparison. For example, “life is a rollercoaster” is a phrase used to describe the ups and downs of life. If interpreted in the wrong context or used in the wrong situation, it might cause some confusion in communication. A simile is an expression that compares two things and explicitly contains either “like” or “as” to highlight the likeness. For example, “clean as a whistle” is used to describe someone that

Figurative Language versus Literal Language is flawless and free from guilt. However, interpreted literally, someone might question how exactly a whistle can be deemed clean seeing as how it is a mouth instrument. A cliché is a stale and overused statement that has consequently lost all sentiment. For example, “what goes around comes around”, “you get what you pay for” and “break a leg” are all examples of clichés. Clichés should be avoided as they demonstrate a lack of original thought and effort. And as with any figurative speech, a cliché can baffle anyone unfamiliar with the expression or oblivious to the context. An amphiboly is a sentence that, due to its structure, leaves room for more than one interpretation. For example, “the roads are dangerous…teenagers shouldn’t drive”. This sentence either implies that teenagers are the cause for the dangerous roads or the roads are too dangerous for them to be driving on. Sometimes amphibolies are done intentionally in an attempt at humor. Depending on the intended usage, amphibolies should be reworded to clear any confusion or ease an offended audience. A “flame word” is a term used to describe a word used to incite anger or argument. Confusion can occur because some “flame words” can also be used in sarcasm. For instance, depending circumstance, the word “loser” can be used as either an insult or a term of endearment. From a bully, the word is meant to be harsh. From a friend, the word is meant to be playful. A hyperbole uses exaggeration for emphasis or effect. For example, “I’m so hungry, I could eat a horse” or “this book weighs a ton”. Both examples are an exaggerated form of figure of speech used to prove a point. Figurative Language versus Literal Language
A euphemism is a less harsh, politically correct way of phrasing something. For instance, one might say they “lost their lunch” as opposed to “vomited” or “threw up”. Depending on the situation, someone might think they literally lost their lunch and offer to help them find it. A colloquialism is a grammatical expression that is only acceptable in casual conversation. It refers to language patterns or phrases that are indicative to a particular region or people. For instance, people in one region may associate “grub” with food while another region might associate that word with “dirty”. In conclusion, I realize the necessity of literal language, however, in terms of expression, I choose figurative language. The use of figurative language can help different groups separate themselves in many ways from everybody else. Slang words can be considered a form of figurative language. Lastly, I think that is a great deal creativity that can be expressed from speaking or writing figuratively. I use it when I’m writing poetry, or when I’m trying to put lyrics to a song. It is all about how the writer or speaker wants to express themselves. However, figurative language is not preferred in more literal matters. Literal language is preferred when the message could get lost or misunderstood in translation.
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