figure of speech crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to resource for solving challenging crossword clues! On this page, you'll find all possible solutions for the clue "figure of speech crossword clue," categorized by letter count for your convenience. We also provide clear explanations to help you understand the answers better and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "figure of speech crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUN: A play on words, often for humor or rhetorical effect, where words are used in a way that suggests two or more meanings, or similar-sounding words are used interchangeably.
5 Letters
IDIOM: A phrase or expression that typically presents a figurative, non-literal meaning attached to the phrase.
IRONY: A literary device where the intended meaning is different from the actual meaning, often creating a humorous or emphatic effect.
6 Letters
SIMILE: A figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind, used to make a description more emphatic or vivid (e.g., as brave as a lion).
7 Letters
ANALOGY: A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.
8 Letters
METAPHOR: A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable, suggesting a resemblance without using 'like' or 'as'.
9 Letters
HYPERBOLE: Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect.
More About "figure of speech crossword clue"
Figures of speech are fascinating elements of language that allow us to express ideas in creative, impactful, and often non-literal ways. They are a staple in poetry, literature, and everyday conversation, adding depth, humor, and vividness to our communication. For crossword enthusiasts, understanding common figures of speech is crucial, as they frequently appear as clues or answers in puzzles.
From the straightforward comparison of a SIMILE to the often-misunderstood nature of IRONY, each figure of speech serves a unique purpose. Crossword setters love to use them because they offer a rich vocabulary of single words that describe complex linguistic phenomena. Recognizing patterns and common types, such as METAPHOR (a direct comparison without 'like' or 'as') or HYPERBOLE (exaggeration for effect), can significantly speed up your solving process.
Delving into these linguistic devices not only helps with crosswords but also enhances your appreciation for the nuances of English. Next time you encounter a clue related to "figure of speech," remember these common answers and their definitions to quickly fill in those empty squares.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "figure of speech" clues.
- Think of Common Examples: When you see "figure of speech," quickly cycle through the most common types: SIMILE, METAPHOR, IDIOM, HYPERBOLE, IRONY, PUN. One of them is often the answer.
- Use Contextual Clues: If other clues in the puzzle hint at literary terms or poetic language, it reinforces the likelihood of a figure of speech answer. Also, examine any surrounding words or a short phrase provided with the clue.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate potential answers. This is often the most reliable method for precise identification.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a figure of speech in a crossword context?
In crosswords, a 'figure of speech' clue typically refers to a word or short phrase that describes a non-literal use of language. Common answers include SIMILE, METAPHOR, IDIOM, IRONY, HYPERBOLE, or PUN. The clue expects you to identify the specific type of figurative language.
Are all figures of speech single words as crossword answers?
While many common figures of speech like METAPHOR or SIMILE are single words, some might be short phrases (e.g., 'play on words' for PUN, though PUN itself is a single word). However, for a clue explicitly asking for 'figure of speech', the answer is almost always a single word that names the type of figure of speech.
How can I identify the correct figure of speech for a crossword clue?
Context is key! Look at the letter count, any intersecting letters you already have, and think about common examples. For instance, if the clue hints at exaggeration, think HYPERBOLE. If it's a comparison using 'like' or 'as', consider SIMILE. If it's a non-literal comparison without those words, METAPHOR is a strong candidate.