Literary Terms

LITERARY TERMS

By: Kaulyn Loe

Metaphor A figurative comparison that does not

use “like” or “as” Example: The lightning danced in the

sky.

Analogy A comparison of two things Example: glove is to hand as hat is to

head

Dialogue The written conversation between two or

more characters Example: “Hi, I’m Sally. It’s nice to meet

you,” she said. “Hi, Sally. I’m Bob,” he replied.

Fact A statement that is true or can be

proven Example: America gained its

independence from England in 1776.

Opinion A statement that requires value judgment; what

someone thinks or believes Example: That movie is the coolest movie ever!

Symbolism The use of a concrete object to represent an idea Example: The Star of David represents the Jews.

Simile A figurative comparison that uses like or

as Example: She was as nervous as a cat in

a room full of rocking chairs.

Inform To use writing to provide factual

information about a topic Example: I’m reading a book about the

Civil War

Multiple-Meaning Word A word that has more than one meaning Example: Sometimes you fall because

someone tripped you. They will start school in the fall.

Conflict The problem or complications in a story Example: the Three Little Pigs vs. the Big

Bad Wolf

Denotative Meaning The dictionary meaning of a word Example: flabbergasted-to overcome

with surprise and bewilderment

Attitude The feelings of a character as reflected

in the selection Example: happy, sad, worried

Sources http://quizlet.com/867596/taks-vocab-

ela-flash-cards/