Hyperbole Meaning and Definition

1 month ago
InfoPlugMedia
3 minutes
Hyperbole

Hyperbole

Pronunciation

/haɪˈpɜːrbəli/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A hyperbole is a rhetorical device in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect. It is a figure of speech that involves an exaggeration used for emphasis or effect.

Examples

1. “I’m so hungry I could eat a whole elephant.” (This is an example of hyperbole, as it is not meant to be taken literally.)

2. “He’s as strong as an ox.” (This is another example of hyperbole, as it is an exaggeration used to emphasize strength.)

Synonyms

1. Exaggeration

2. Overstatement

Antonyms

1. Understatement

2. Literalness

Additional Information

Hyperbole is often used in literature, poetry, and everyday language to add emphasis or create a strong impression. It can be used to make a point, create humor, or evoke emotions. Hyperbole can also be used to make a statement more memorable or engaging.

Hyperbole can be classified into different types, including:

  • Quantitative hyperbole: This type of hyperbole involves exaggerating the quantity of something.
  • Qualitative hyperbole: This type of hyperbole involves exaggerating the quality of something.

Hyperbole can be used in various contexts, including:

  • Literary works: Hyperbole is often used in literature to create vivid imagery and emphasize certain points.
  • Poetry: Hyperbole is often used in poetry to create a strong emotional impact and add emphasis to certain words or phrases.
  • Everyday language: Hyperbole is often used in everyday language to add emphasis or create humor.

Etymology

The word “hyperbole” comes from the Greek word “ὑπερβολή” (huperbolē), which means “excess” or “overstepping”. The word has been used in English since the 15th century.

Usage Notes

Hyperbole is often used to add emphasis or create a strong impression. However, it can also be used to deceive or mislead others. It is essential to use hyperbole judiciously and in context to avoid confusing or misleading others.

Cultural References

Hyperbole has been used in various cultural references, including:

  • Literature: Hyperbole has been used in literature by authors such as Shakespeare and Dickens to create vivid imagery and emphasize certain points.
  • Music: Hyperbole has been used in music by artists such as Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen to create a strong emotional impact and add emphasis to certain words or phrases.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Hyperbole is often used in idiomatic expressions or phrases, including:

  • “Bite off more than you can chew”: This phrase means to take on more responsibility than you can handle.
  • “Break a leg”: This phrase means “good luck”.

Collocations

Hyperbole often collocates with words such as:

  • Exaggerate
  • Emphasize
  • Stress

Frequency of Use

Hyperbole is commonly used in everyday language, literature, and poetry. It is estimated that hyperbole is used in over 50% of all language expressions.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of hyperbole include:

  • Hyperbowl
  • Hyperbolea
  • Hyperboly

Related Words