When reading a good book or an intriguing article, most people have experienced the feeling of getting lost in the imagery and details of the writing. This vivid sense of feeling from the written word is often attributed to the writer’s use of figurative language. Figurative language takes words or phrases we’ve become familiar with beyond their literal sense into a broader definition by using figures of speech. While you probably learned about this technique in your English class, having a grasp of figurative language can be helpful in many forms of communication across the business world.
Figurative language is when words or phrases are amplified from their literal meaning to provoke more intense imagery, stylize, and create writing that’s engaging for the reader. More than being one quality, in particular, figurative language relies on a variety of tools to further a reader’s grasp of complex topics. As expected, figurative language is often seen in the written arts to convey ambiguous or intangible concepts that may be difficult to articulate with literal meanings of words and phrases alone. It establishes a connection with the reader. Whether it be a novel or a persuasive email, figurative language can be a useful mechanism for communicating more clearly and creatively when writing in any capacity. People are more likely to respond to your message when they’re interested in what you have to say. Using figurative language devices is a strategic and effective way to capture an audience’s attention and develop a deeper mutual understanding of what’s being said. Additionally, connecting with an audience can be crucial in roles where public speaking at any level is critical, such as teaching. Whether small or large scale, individuals who are successful in speech-dependent roles implement tactics of figurative language to identify with their audience. Figurative language is a summation of many different strategies that can help bring the words you write or speak alive. Utilizing a rotation of effective language devices can improve communication in both written and spoken contexts. Consider the following types of figurative language tools that can strengthen a reader’s understanding of information:
The above types of figurative language cover figures of speech, but there are other linguistic devices that can make your communication sharper.
Rhetorical, literary, and figurative language aren’t reserved for the likes of Shakespeare. As a creative species, we’re not bound by literal language all of the time. In fact, one of our greatest strengths is rooted in our ability to think metaphorically and make connections between apparently disparate concepts. Figurative speech is more than just a series of stylistic devices referring to dry terms like metonymy and anaphora. It’s a way of expressing oneself in a way that’s more compelling for listeners and readers and more effective for you. Start listening for figurative language in your everyday life and be more deliberate about employing it yourself, and you’ll see an improvement in the quality of your communication skills. Never miss an opportunity that’s right for you. |