500 Figurative Language Examples (With Sentences)

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Figurative language is the seasoning in the grand recipe of language—it adds flavor, color, and richness to writing.

Here’s a comprehensive guide with over 500 figurative language examples, organized by type, complete with example sentences for every single one. Ready? Let’s get fancy with our words.

Metaphors

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Black Crow next to a candle -- Figurative Language Examples
I made this image with AI — Figurative Language Examples

Metaphors compare two things directly, saying one is the other to create vivid imagery. Dive into these figurative language examples where one thing magically becomes another—no wand required.

  1. The world is a stage. (Every person plays their part in life.)
  2. Her smile was sunshine. (It brought warmth and happiness to everyone.)
  3. Time is a thief. (It steals moments before you realize they’re gone.)
  4. The classroom was a zoo. (The students were wild and uncontrollable.)
  5. His words were daggers. (They pierced her emotionally.)
  6. My heart is a stereo. (It plays the song of my emotions.)
  7. The snow is a white blanket. (It covers everything in sight.)
  8. Life is a rollercoaster. (It’s full of ups and downs.)
  9. His mind is a steel trap. (He remembers everything.)
  10. The city is a jungle. (It’s chaotic and wild.)
  11. Love is a battlefield. (It’s full of struggles and challenges.)
  12. The stars were diamonds in the sky. (They sparkled brightly.)
  13. Her voice is music to my ears. (It’s soothing and pleasant.)
  14. He has a heart of gold. (He’s kind and generous.)
  15. The curtain of night fell upon the city. (Darkness took over.)
  16. The wind was a whisper. (It moved softly and gently.)
  17. Her eyes were pools of mystery. (They held secrets and depth.)
  18. The past is a ghost. (It lingers but isn’t tangible.)
  19. The internet is a highway. (It connects people and ideas quickly.)
  20. His job was a prison. (He felt trapped in it.)
  21. Laughter is the best medicine. (It heals the soul.)
  22. Fear is a shadow. (It follows you and grows.)
  23. The storm was a beast. (It was powerful and uncontrollable.)
  24. The sun is a golden coin in the sky. (It shines and dazzles.)
  25. Her hands were ice. (They were freezing cold.)
  26. Anger is a fire. (It burns within.)
  27. The moon was a spotlight. (It illuminated the scene below.)
  28. His voice was thunder. (It was loud and commanding.)
  29. The sea was a mirror. (It reflected the sky perfectly.)
  30. The book is a doorway to another world. (It takes you on an adventure.)

Similes

Similes make comparisons using “like” or “as” to highlight similarities between things. These figurative language examples are like little comparisons that pack a big punch.

  1. Her hair is like spun gold. (It’s shiny and precious.)
  2. He runs as fast as a cheetah. (He’s incredibly speedy.)
  3. The sky is as blue as the ocean. (It’s vividly blue.)
  4. She’s as brave as a lion. (She’s courageous.)
  5. His hands were like ice. (They were very cold.)
  6. The music was as loud as thunder. (It was incredibly noisy.)
  7. Her eyes sparkled like stars. (They were bright and beautiful.)
  8. The baby is as quiet as a mouse. (Barely makes a sound.)
  9. His words hit like a hammer. (They were forceful and impactful.)
  10. She sang like a bird. (Her voice was melodious.)
  11. The night was as dark as coal. (It was pitch black.)
  12. His anger burned like a fire. (It was intense and consuming.)
  13. Her skin is as smooth as silk. (It’s very soft.)
  14. The cat is as sneaky as a fox. (It’s clever and sly.)
  15. The water was as clear as crystal. (It was perfectly transparent.)
  16. He’s as tough as nails. (He’s very strong.)
  17. The exam was like a marathon. (It was long and exhausting.)
  18. Her laugh is like sunshine. (It’s warm and bright.)
  19. He’s as stubborn as a mule. (He won’t change his mind easily.)
  20. The house is as cold as ice. (It’s freezing inside.)
  21. Her smile is like a rainbow. (It’s colorful and joyful.)
  22. He’s as quick as lightning. (He moves very fast.)
  23. The wind howled like a wolf. (It was loud and eerie.)
  24. The car was as slow as a snail. (It barely moved.)
  25. She’s as delicate as a flower. (She’s gentle and fragile.)
  26. His laughter rang like a bell. (It was clear and bright.)
  27. The lake is as calm as glass. (It’s perfectly still.)
  28. She’s as strong as an ox. (She has incredible strength.)
  29. His mood changes like the weather. (It’s unpredictable.)
  30. The child is as sweet as honey. (Very kind and adorable.)

Personification

Personification gives human characteristics to non-human things, making them come alive in writing. These figurative language examples make even objects feel human.

  1. The wind whispered through the trees. (It made a soft, eerie sound.)
  2. The flowers danced in the breeze. (They moved as if celebrating.)
  3. The sun smiled down on us. (It felt warm and welcoming.)
  4. The clock mocked me with its ticking. (It made me feel pressured.)
  5. The stars winked in the night sky. (They twinkled playfully.)
  6. The fire roared in the hearth. (It burned fiercely.)
  7. The river sang a soothing tune. (It flowed gently and melodiously.)
  8. The leaves whispered secrets to each other. (They rustled softly.)
  9. The storm screamed its fury. (It was violent and loud.)
  10. The mountain stood guard over the valley. (It loomed protectively.)
  11. The rain tapped on the window. (It made a gentle, rhythmic sound.)
  12. The car groaned as it climbed the hill. (It struggled and made noise.)
  13. The books called out to me from the shelf. (They seemed inviting.)
  14. The city never sleeps. (It’s always active.)
  15. The waves licked the shore. (They gently washed up on the beach.)
  16. The chair protested under his weight. (It creaked loudly.)
  17. The lightning danced across the sky. (It moved swiftly and brightly.)
  18. The fog crept in on little cat feet. (It moved stealthily.)
  19. The shadows stretched across the room. (They lengthened and spread out.)
  20. The kettle screamed when the water boiled. (It whistled loudly.)
  21. The old house groaned in the wind. (It made eerie noises.)
  22. The flowers begged for water. (They looked wilted and thirsty.)
  23. The clock hands crawled toward midnight. (Time felt slow.)
  24. The snowflakes kissed my cheeks. (They landed gently.)
  25. The moon watched over the sleepy town. (It appeared protective.)
  26. The pen danced across the page. (It moved fluidly as I wrote.)
  27. The computer refused to cooperate. (It wasn’t functioning.)
  28. The wind played with her hair. (It blew it gently.)
  29. The tree stood tall against the storm. (It appeared resilient.)
  30. The morning sun peeked through the curtains. (It shone subtly.)

Hyperbole

Hyperbole is a deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or effect. These figurative language examples are so dramatic, that they’ll make your jaw drop a million miles.

  1. I’ve told you a million times! (It’s been repeated endlessly.)
  2. I’m so hungry I could eat a horse. (I’m extremely hungry.)
  3. This bag weighs a ton. (It’s very heavy.)
  4. I waited an eternity for the bus. (It felt like forever.)
  5. My phone has been ringing off the hook. (It’s been ringing non-stop.)
  6. I could sleep for a year. (I’m very tired.)
  7. His smile was a mile wide. (It was extremely broad.)
  8. It’s hotter than the sun today. (It’s very hot.)
  9. She cried a river of tears. (She cried a lot.)
  10. I’ve read this book a thousand times. (I’ve read it many times.)
  11. I’m drowning in paperwork. (I have a lot to do.)
  12. This car goes faster than the speed of light. (It’s incredibly fast.)
  13. He has a brain the size of a pea. (He’s not very smart.)
  14. I’m dying of embarrassment. (I feel extremely embarrassed.)
  15. That joke is older than time itself. (It’s very outdated.)
  16. I could hear a pin drop in the silence. (It was extremely quiet.)
  17. I’ve got mountains of homework. (I have a lot of homework.)
  18. I’ve been walking forever. (It feels like I’ve been walking for a long time.)
  19. She’s the most beautiful woman in the universe. (She’s stunningly beautiful.)
  20. My house is so messy it looks like a tornado hit it. (It’s very untidy.)
  21. He’s as strong as an army. (He’s incredibly strong.)
  22. The suspense is killing me. (I can’t wait any longer.)
  23. I’ve had this song stuck in my head for a century. (It’s been in my mind a long time.)
  24. This project will take forever to finish. (It’s very time-consuming.)
  25. He talks a hundred miles an hour. (He speaks very fast.)
  26. My backpack weighs a million pounds. (It’s very heavy.)
  27. It’s so cold, I’m turning into an ice cube. (It’s freezing.)
  28. I ran faster than the wind. (I ran very quickly.)
  29. He’s richer than Croesus. (He has a lot of money.)
  30. She’s got eyes bigger than her stomach. (She wants more food than she can eat.)

Idioms

Idioms are expressions that don’t mean exactly what the words say but convey a figurative meaning understood by native speakers.

Get ready for some classic figurative language examples that’ll make you sound like a native word wizard.

  1. Break the ice. (Start a conversation to ease tension.)
  2. Spill the beans. (Reveal a secret.)
  3. Kick the bucket. (Pass away.)
  4. Under the weather. (Feeling unwell.)
  5. Hit the nail on the head. (Get something exactly right.)
  6. Bite the bullet. (Do something unpleasant or difficult.)
  7. A piece of cake. (Something very easy.)
  8. Let the cat out of the bag. (Reveal a secret.)
  9. Costs an arm and a leg. (Very expensive.)
  10. Burn the midnight oil. (Work late into the night.)
  11. Hit the sack. (Go to sleep.)
  12. The ball is in your court. (It’s your decision or responsibility.)
  13. Don’t cry over spilled milk. (Don’t worry about things that can’t be changed.)
  14. On cloud nine. (Extremely happy.)
  15. Every cloud has a silver lining. (There’s something good in every bad situation.)
  16. Once in a blue moon. (Very rarely.)
  17. The elephant in the room. (An obvious problem that no one wants to discuss.)
  18. Pull someone’s leg. (Joke or tease someone.)
  19. It’s raining cats and dogs. (It’s raining heavily.)
  20. Add fuel to the fire. (Make a bad situation worse.)
  21. Barking up the wrong tree. (Looking in the wrong place or accusing the wrong person.)
  22. Beat around the bush. (Avoid talking directly about the issue.)
  23. Caught red-handed. (Caught in the act of doing something wrong.)
  24. Cross that bridge when you come to it. (Deal with a problem if and when it happens.)
  25. Cut corners. (Do something poorly to save time or money.)
  26. Cry wolf. (Call for help when it’s not needed.)
  27. Curiosity killed the cat. (Being too inquisitive can lead to trouble.)
  28. Actions speak louder than words. (What you do is more important than what you say.)
  29. A blessing in disguise. (Something good that seems bad at first.)
  30. Put all your eggs in one basket. (Risk everything on one opportunity.)

Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia involves words that imitate the sound they describe. And these figurative language examples don’t just describe sounds—they practically make them.

  1. Buzz (The bee buzzed around the flower.)
  2. Bang (The door slammed with a bang.)
  3. Crash (The waves crashed against the rocks.)
  4. Hiss (The snake hissed menacingly.)
  5. Clink (The glasses clinked during the toast.)
  6. Pop (The balloon popped loudly.)
  7. Crackle (The fire crackled in the hearth.)
  8. Whizz (The arrow whizzed through the air.)
  9. Whoosh (The wind whooshed through the trees.)
  10. Splash (The fish made a splash in the pond.)
  11. Roar (The lion’s roar echoed across the savanna.)
  12. Sizzle (The bacon sizzled in the pan.)
  13. Snip (The scissors snipped through the paper.)
  14. Hum (The fridge hummed quietly.)
  15. Boom (The fireworks boomed in the sky.)
  16. Rattle (The windows rattled in the storm.)
  17. Clatter (The dishes clattered in the sink.)
  18. Ding (The microwave dinged when the food was ready.)
  19. Chirp (The birds chirped at dawn.)
  20. Bleep (The machine bleeped to signal it was finished.)
  21. Tinkle (The bell tinkled softly.)
  22. Thud (The book fell with a thud.)
  23. Snarl (The dog snarled at the stranger.)
  24. Screech (The brakes screeched as the car stopped.)
  25. Gurgle (The water gurgled down the drain.)
  26. Yelp (The puppy let out a yelp of surprise.)
  27. Whimper (The child whimpered softly.)
  28. Zing (The sword made a zing as it sliced through the air.)
  29. Rustle (The leaves rustled in the wind.)
  30. Boom (The cannon fired with a deafening boom.)

Alliteration

Alliteration repeats the same initial consonant sound in closely connected words. Add some rhythmic flair with these figurative language examples that roll off the tongue.

  1. Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers. (Classic tongue twister.)
  2. She sells seashells by the seashore. (Another timeless classic.)
  3. The big brown bear bit the blueberry. (Bear and berry alliteration.)
  4. Whispering winds whirled wildly. (Soft and airy repetition.)
  5. Seven slippery snakes slithered silently. (S sound repeated.)
  6. The clock clicked continuously. (A rhythmic repetition.)
  7. Bold birds basked beneath the boughs. (Beautiful B words.)
  8. Larry’s lizards like leaping. (A fun, jumpy alliteration.)
  9. Tiny turtles trudged tenaciously. *(Tough turtles!)
  10. Friendly foxes frolicked freely. (An image of carefree play.)
  11. Crisp, crunchy cookies crumbled. (Who can resist C words?)
  12. Fickle flames flickered fast. (Fire-inspired fun.)
  13. Brightly blazing bonfires beckoned. (Warmth and light in words.)
  14. Silly, smiling squirrels scampered swiftly. (Playful animal imagery.)
  15. Perfectly plump pumpkins perched patiently. (A fall-themed line.)
  16. Racing rabbits reached rivers rapidly. (Quick little hoppers.)
  17. Glorious golden geese gathered. (A rich visual.)
  18. Prancing ponies played passionately. (Joyful and dynamic.)
  19. Wicked witches wandered wearily. (A Halloween twist.)
  20. Chilly children chose chocolate cheerfully. (Seasonal sweetness.)
  21. Sleepy sailors snored softly. (Dreamy and quiet.)
  22. Gleeful goblins gathered golden gourds. (An autumn adventure.)
  23. Marvelous monkeys made merry music. (Playful primates.)
  24. Prickly porcupines posed perfectly. (A spiny scenario.)
  25. Flying fish flipped frantically. (Ocean imagery.)
  26. Gargantuan giants galloped gleefully. (A mythical image.)
  27. Lovely lilacs lined long lanes. (A fragrant stroll.)
  28. Daring dragons dashed dramatically. (Fierce fantasy figures.)
  29. Jumpy jaguars joyfully jumped. (Energetic and wild.)
  30. Quiet quails quivered quickly. (A delicate ending.)

Oxymorons

Oxymorons are combinations of contradictory or opposing terms that create unique, often paradoxical expressions.

Explore these figurative language examples that are seriously funny and painfully delightful.

  1. Jumbo shrimp (Something small yet large?)
  2. Deafening silence (A silence so profound it feels loud.)
  3. Bitter sweet (Something both happy and sad.)
  4. Act naturally (A command to behave naturally but deliberately.)
  5. Virtual reality (Reality that isn’t actually real.)
  6. Alone together (Being solitary yet in company.)
  7. Seriously funny (Something both earnest and humorous.)
  8. Living dead (An undead being, like a zombie.)
  9. Original copy (A duplicated version of an original item.)
  10. Open secret (Something widely known but considered a secret.)
  11. Passive-aggressive (Indirectly expressing hostility.)
  12. Controlled chaos (A situation that seems out of control but isn’t.)
  13. Clearly confused (Being uncertain in a seemingly obvious way.)
  14. Pretty ugly (Something unattractive but notable.)
  15. Plastic glasses (Glasses made of non-glass material.)
  16. Act naturally (Behave in an uncontrived manner intentionally.)
  17. Civil war (A war within a single group or nation.)
  18. Awfully good (Something surprisingly excellent.)
  19. Random order (An order that appears arbitrary.)
  20. Foolish wisdom (Simple, yet profound thinking.)
  21. Unbiased opinion (An objective but personal view.)
  22. Alone together (People coexisting but isolated in emotion.)
  23. Small crowd (A minimal but noticeable group.)
  24. Passive resistance (Resistance done without aggression.)
  25. Bittersweet memory (A memory that’s both happy and sad.)
  26. Silent scream (An emotion so strong it needs no sound.)
  27. Working vacation (A vacation where work continues.)
  28. Definitely maybe (A non-committal agreement.)
  29. Friendly fire (Inadvertent attacks on allies.)
  30. Old news (Information that’s no longer relevant.)

Paradoxes

Paradoxes are statements or situations that appear contradictory but often reveal deeper truths.

These figurative language examples are confusingly profound and perfectly perplexing.

  1. Less is more. (Simpler approaches can be more effective.)
  2. This is the beginning of the end. (The start of something concluding.)
  3. I must be cruel to be kind. (Sometimes harshness is necessary for kindness.)
  4. Nobody goes to that restaurant; it’s too crowded. (Contradicts itself yet feels valid.)
  5. The only constant is change. (Change is the one thing that remains consistent.)
  6. You have to spend money to make money. (An investment is often needed for profit.)
  7. The more you learn, the less you know. (Learning reveals how much more there is to learn.)
  8. To save money, we must spend it. (Investments lead to savings.)
  9. The louder you are, the less they’ll hear you. (Shouting often makes your message ineffective.)
  10. Deep down, you’re really shallow. (Seeming profound but lacking depth.)
  11. I know one thing: that I know nothing. (Acknowledging ignorance is wisdom.)
  12. If I know anything, it’s that I know nothing. (A Socratic paradox.)
  13. This statement is false. (A classic logical paradox.)
  14. A rich man is no richer than a poor man. (Material wealth doesn’t equal happiness.)
  15. What a pity that youth is wasted on the young. (Young people often lack the wisdom to enjoy their youth.)
  16. A wise fool. (Someone who is foolish but insightful.)
  17. The beginning is the end. (Starts lead directly to conclusions.)
  18. You can’t go back in time but you’re never truly gone. (Memories preserve people.)
  19. War is peace. (Opposing ideas tied together.)
  20. Freedom is slavery. (Another paradoxical pairing.)
  21. Ignorance is strength. (Lack of awareness might feel empowering.)
  22. The child is father to the man. (Youth shapes adulthood.)
  23. Men work together whether they work together or apart. (Efforts connect, even independently.)
  24. My life is full of empty spaces. (A contradiction about feelings of void.)
  25. I can resist anything except temptation. (A humorous contradiction.)
  26. It’s the same difference. (Seemingly the same but contrasting.)
  27. To bring peace, we must prepare for war. (A military paradox.)
  28. I am nobody. (A statement of self-erasure.)
  29. The only way out is through. (Facing problems directly solves them.)
  30. You’re damned if you do, damned if you don’t. (Both choices have negative outcomes.)

Symbolism

Symbolism uses objects, figures, or colors to represent abstract ideas or concepts. Unlock hidden meanings with these figurative language examples.

  1. A red rose (Symbolizes love and passion.)
  2. A dove with an olive branch (Represents peace.)
  3. A broken mirror (Symbolizes bad luck or fractured identity.)
  4. A ladder (Represents progress or ascension.)
  5. A raven (Symbolizes death or bad omens.)
  6. Light (Represents knowledge or purity.)
  7. Darkness (Symbolizes ignorance or evil.)
  8. A heart (Represents love or emotion.)
  9. Chains (Symbolize oppression or restraint.)
  10. Fire (Represents passion or destruction.)
  11. Water (Symbolizes life, cleansing, or rebirth.)
  12. A ring (Represents eternity or commitment.)
  13. A crown (Symbolizes power or authority.)
  14. A key (Represents unlocking potential or secrets.)
  15. A clock (Symbolizes the passage of time.)
  16. A butterfly (Represents transformation or freedom.)
  17. A snake (Symbolizes danger, deception, or rebirth.)
  18. A tree (Represents growth, stability, or family roots.)
  19. A mountain (Symbolizes challenges or aspirations.)
  20. A bridge (Represents connection or transition.)
  21. An eagle (Symbolizes freedom or vision.)
  22. A sword (Represents power or protection.)
  23. A skull (Symbolizes mortality or danger.)
  24. An anchor (Represents stability or hope.)
  25. A lion (Symbolizes courage or leadership.)
  26. A mirror (Represents self-reflection or truth.)
  27. A storm (Symbolizes turmoil or conflict.)
  28. A candle (Represents hope or spirituality.)
  29. Gold (Symbolizes wealth or success.)
  30. A rainbow (Represents hope or diversity.)

Euphemisms

Euphemisms soften harsh, unpleasant, or taboo topics with gentler expressions. Tread lightly with these figurative language examples that say it softer, but mean just as much.

  1. Passed away (Died.)
  2. Let go (Fired from a job.)
  3. Economical with the truth (Lying.)
  4. Adult beverage (Alcoholic drink.)
  5. Big-boned (Overweight.)
  6. Between jobs (Unemployed.)
  7. Correctional facility (Prison.)
  8. Departed (Died.)
  9. Pre-owned (Used.)
  10. Nature’s call (Need to use the restroom.)
  11. Powder room (Restroom.)
  12. Vertically challenged (Short.)
  13. Senior citizen (Elderly person.)
  14. Resting place (Cemetery or grave.)
  15. Differently abled (Disabled.)
  16. Over the hill (Old or aging.)
  17. Make redundant (Lay off.)
  18. Bite the dust (Die.)
  19. Kick the bucket (Die.)
  20. Little boys’/girls’ room (Restroom.)
  21. Eternal rest (Death.)
  22. Custodial engineer (Janitor.)
  23. Comfort station (Restroom.)
  24. Sanitation worker (Garbage collector.)
  25. Gone to a better place (Died.)
  26. Put to sleep (Euthanized.)
  27. Under the influence (Drunk.)
  28. Seasoned worker (Older employee.)
  29. Domestic engineer (Stay-at-home parent.)
  30. Retire early (Forced retirement.)

Imagery

Imagery creates vivid sensory experiences in the reader’s mind.

Paint a vivid picture with these figurative language examples that’ll tingle all your senses.

  1. The sun set in a blaze of oranges and pinks. (Visual imagery.)
  2. The chocolate melted on my tongue, rich and velvety. (Taste imagery.)
  3. The thunder growled like an angry beast. (Auditory imagery.)
  4. Her perfume was a garden in spring. (Smell imagery.)
  5. The silk felt like a cool breeze on my skin. (Touch imagery.)
  6. The meadow was a sea of wildflowers, swaying in the wind. (Visual imagery.)
  7. His voice was gravelly, like boots crunching over stones. (Auditory imagery.)
  8. The cookies filled the house with the smell of home. (Smell imagery.)
  9. The icy water stung my fingertips. (Touch imagery.)
  10. The city lights blinked like fireflies in the distance. (Visual imagery.)
  11. The bitter coffee woke me up instantly. (Taste imagery.)
  12. The rain drummed against the roof in a steady rhythm. (Auditory imagery.)
  13. The forest smelled of pine and damp earth. (Smell imagery.)
  14. The blanket was soft, like a cloud wrapping around me. (Touch imagery.)
  15. The waves sparkled under the noonday sun. (Visual imagery.)
  16. The soup was savory and warming, like a hug in a bowl. (Taste imagery.)
  17. The scream echoed through the empty halls. (Auditory imagery.)
  18. The flowers smelled sweet, like sugar and sunshine. (Smell imagery.)
  19. The gravel was sharp under my bare feet. (Touch imagery.)
  20. The moonlight spilled across the lake like liquid silver. (Visual imagery.)
  21. The lemon was tart enough to make my mouth pucker. (Taste imagery.)
  22. The wind howled like a ghost in the night. (Auditory imagery.)
  23. The bakery smelled of warm bread and cinnamon. (Smell imagery.)
  24. The cat’s fur was soft as silk beneath my hand. (Touch imagery.)
  25. The autumn leaves blazed in red and gold. (Visual imagery.)
  26. The soup tasted like my grandmother’s kitchen—nostalgic and comforting. (Taste imagery.)
  27. The radio crackled with static and faint voices. (Auditory imagery.)
  28. The candle filled the air with the scent of vanilla. (Smell imagery.)
  29. The frost bit at my cheeks as I walked. (Touch imagery.)
  30. The clouds looked like marshmallows floating in the sky. (Visual imagery.)

Irony

Irony conveys a meaning opposite to what is expected or intended. These figurative language examples deliver twists sharper than your favorite plotline.

  1. A traffic cop gets their license suspended for unpaid parking tickets. (Situational irony.)
  2. The fire station burned down. (Situational irony.)
  3. “Oh, great! Another rainy day,” she said as she canceled her picnic plans. (Verbal irony.)
  4. A pilot who is afraid of heights. (Situational irony.)
  5. Posting on social media about how pointless social media is. (Situational irony.)
  6. A plumber’s house has leaky pipes. (Situational irony.)
  7. “What a pleasant day,” he muttered during a hurricane. (Verbal irony.)
  8. The Titanic was called “unsinkable,” yet it sank on its maiden voyage. (Dramatic irony.)
  9. A marriage counselor files for divorce. (Situational irony.)
  10. The chef who microwaves dinner at home. (Situational irony.)
  11. “Lovely weather we’re having,” she joked during a thunderstorm. (Verbal irony.)
  12. A health inspector gets food poisoning. (Situational irony.)
  13. “This is the best day ever,” he muttered sarcastically after his car broke down. (Verbal irony.)
  14. A fitness instructor who smokes cigarettes. (Situational irony.)
  15. A professional cleaner’s house is a mess. (Situational irony.)
  16. The audience knows the killer is in the house, but the character does not. (Dramatic irony.)
  17. “I can’t wait to clean up this huge mess,” she said sarcastically. (Verbal irony.)
  18. The cobbler’s children have no shoes. (Situational irony.)
  19. A librarian who hates reading. (Situational irony.)
  20. “What a genius move,” he said after a teammate’s obvious blunder. (Verbal irony.)
  21. A doctor who is terrified of needles. (Situational irony.)
  22. A fire extinguisher factory catches fire. (Situational irony.)
  23. A professional swimmer who drowns in a pool. (Situational irony.)
  24. Saying “fantastic” after spilling coffee on your shirt. (Verbal irony.)
  25. An environmentalist drives a gas-guzzling car. (Situational irony.)
  26. A vegan owns a steakhouse. (Situational irony.)
  27. The lifeguard drowns. (Situational irony.)
  28. A dentist with cavities. (Situational irony.)
  29. A tech company CEO can’t figure out how to use their own software. (Situational irony.)
  30. “This is just perfect,” she said as the tire blew out. (Verbal irony.)

Pun (Wordplay)

Puns play with words that have multiple meanings or sound similar to another word. Laugh (or groan) at these figurative language examples that prove wordplay is pun-believably fun.

  1. I’m reading a book on anti-gravity—it’s impossible to put down! (Wordplay on “anti-gravity.”)
  2. The calendar’s days are numbered. (Double meaning of “numbered.”)
  3. I used to be a baker, but I couldn’t make enough dough. (Dough as money and bread.)
  4. I’m friends with all electricians—we have a great current connection. (Play on “current.”)
  5. The mathematician went to the beach to work on his tan-gents. (Play on “tangents.”)
  6. I was struggling to figure out how lightning works, but then it struck me. (Double meaning of “struck.”)
  7. My leaf blower doesn’t work—it sucks! (Double meaning related to vacuums.)
  8. A boiled egg in the morning is hard to beat. (Play on “hard to beat.”)
  9. I’m on a seafood diet. I see food and eat it. (Play on “seafood.”)
  10. A dentist’s favorite time is 2:30 (tooth-hurty). (Wordplay on the time.)
  11. The scarecrow won an award because he was outstanding in his field. (Double meaning of “outstanding.”)
  12. I’d tell you a chemistry joke, but I know I wouldn’t get a reaction. (Play on “reaction.”)
  13. She had a photographic memory but never developed it. (Wordplay on photography.)
  14. I’m reading a book on glue—I just can’t put it down. (Play on “can’t put it down.”)
  15. I asked my dog what two minus two is. He said nothing. (Double meaning of “nothing.”)
  16. A bicycle can’t stand on its own because it’s two-tired. (Play on “two-tired.”)
  17. I’m so good at sleeping, I can do it with my eyes closed. (Wordplay on “sleeping.”)
  18. A boiled egg is hard to beat. (Repeated for emphasis.)
  19. Why don’t skeletons fight? They don’t have the guts. (Wordplay on “guts.”)
  20. I’m a big fan of whiteboards—they’re re-markable. (Play on “remarkable.”)
  21. The computer’s mouse stopped working—it’s feeling a bit click-ish. (Play on “clickish.”)
  22. The librarian said it was overdue for me to check this out. (Play on “overdue.”)
  23. I stayed up all night wondering where the sun went, and then it dawned on me. (Wordplay on “dawned.”)
  24. The guy who invented the door-knocker won the No-bell prize. (Play on “Nobel.”)
  25. My friend’s bakery burned down—now his business is toast. (Play on “toast.”)
  26. What do you call fake spaghetti? An impasta! (Play on “imposter.”)
  27. A chicken crossing the road is poultry in motion. (Play on “poetry in motion.”)
  28. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was ticketed for littering. (Play on “littering.”)
  29. When the music teacher locked her keys in the car, it was a major problem. (Play on “major.”)
  30. I used to be addicted to the hokey pokey, but I turned myself around. (Play on “turned myself around.”)

Analogies

Analogies explain an idea or concept by comparing it to something more familiar.

Simplify the complex with these figurative language examples that connect the dots beautifully.

  1. Just as a sword is the weapon of a warrior, a pen is the weapon of a writer. (Comparison of tools to their users.)
  2. A car without fuel is like a body without food. (Comparison of energy sources.)
  3. Time is like a river—it flows in one direction. (Comparison of movement and continuity.)
  4. A book is like a garden carried in the pocket. (Comparison of knowledge and growth.)
  5. Her smile was like sunshine breaking through the clouds. (Comparison of joy and warmth.)
  6. A student is to a teacher as a canvas is to a painter. (Comparison of development and creativity.)
  7. A marathon is to a sprinter as endurance is to speed. (Comparison of traits in a race.)
  8. Life is like a box of chocolates—you never know what you’re gonna get. (Famous analogy for unpredictability.)
  9. Worrying is like rocking in a chair—it gives you something to do but gets you nowhere. (Comparison of effort and results.)
  10. The brain is like a computer—it processes information. (Comparison of function.)
  11. Reading a book is like traveling to another world. (Comparison of experiences.)
  12. A house without love is like a body without a soul. (Comparison of emptiness.)
  13. Watching her dance is like watching poetry in motion. (Comparison of art forms.)
  14. His temper is like a volcano—it erupts suddenly. (Comparison of unpredictability.)
  15. A good friend is like a four-leaf clover—hard to find and lucky to have. (Comparison of rarity.)
  16. Forgiveness is like setting a prisoner free and realizing the prisoner was you. (Comparison of liberation.)
  17. A mind is like a parachute—it works best when it’s open. (Comparison of flexibility.)
  18. Knowledge is like a garden—if it’s not cultivated, it cannot be harvested. (Comparison of growth.)
  19. A city is like an anthill—bustling and full of activity. (Comparison of busyness.)
  20. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. (Comparison of progress.)
  21. Hope is like a candle in the darkness. (Comparison of guidance and resilience.)
  22. The heart is like a clock—it keeps ticking. (Comparison of consistency.)
  23. Life without goals is like a ship without a rudder. (Comparison of directionlessness.)
  24. A library is like a treasure chest full of wisdom. (Comparison of value.)
  25. Procrastination is like a credit card—it’s fun until the bill comes. (Comparison of consequences.)
  26. A great idea is like a spark—it can ignite a revolution. (Comparison of potential.)
  27. Love is like the wind—you can’t see it, but you can feel it. (Comparison of invisibility.)
  28. The internet is like a spiderweb—interconnected and vast. (Comparison of structure.)
  29. Fear is like a shadow—it grows when you run from it. (Comparison of effects.)
  30. The ocean is like a mirror—it reflects the sky. (Comparison of surfaces.)

Aphorisms

Aphorisms are concise statements of truth or principle. Let these figurative language examples drop truth bombs in the snappiest ways.

  1. Actions speak louder than words. (Deeds are more impactful than promises.)
  2. The early bird catches the worm. (Being proactive leads to success.)
  3. A penny saved is a penny earned. (Saving money is as valuable as earning it.)
  4. Knowledge is power. (Learning gives strength and influence.)
  5. The pen is mightier than the sword. (Words have greater impact than violence.)
  6. Practice makes perfect. (Repetition leads to mastery.)
  7. Time is money. (Wasting time is as costly as wasting money.)
  8. When in doubt, leave it out. (Avoid unnecessary risks.)
  9. You can’t judge a book by its cover. (Appearances can be deceptive.)
  10. What goes around comes around. (Karma will return your actions.)
  11. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch. (Don’t make assumptions about outcomes.)
  12. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. (Big tasks start small.)
  13. Better late than never. (It’s better to do something eventually than not at all.)
  14. You reap what you sow. (Your actions determine your results.)
  15. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. (Distance enhances appreciation.)
  16. Rome wasn’t built in a day. (Great things take time.)
  17. Necessity is the mother of invention. (Challenges inspire solutions.)
  18. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you. (Avoid harming those who help you.)
  19. A fool and his money are soon parted. (Foolishness leads to financial loss.)
  20. Two heads are better than one. (Collaboration brings better results.)
  21. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. (Diversify your efforts or risks.)
  22. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. (Leave functional things alone.)
  23. Honesty is the best policy. (Truthfulness is always better.)
  24. If you want something done right, do it yourself. (Self-reliance ensures quality.)
  25. Many hands make light work. (Teamwork makes tasks easier.)
  26. There’s no such thing as a free lunch. (Everything has a cost.)
  27. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. (Attention goes to the loudest problems.)
  28. You can’t have your cake and eat it too. (Choices have consequences.)
  29. A watched pot never boils. (Waiting makes time feel slower.)
  30. Don’t cross a bridge until you come to it. (Don’t worry prematurely.)

Allegories

Allegories are extended metaphors where characters, events, or settings symbolize abstract ideas or concepts.

These figurative language examples are like entire hidden worlds wrapped in symbolism.

  1. The tortoise and the hare (An allegory for patience and persistence over haste.)
  2. Animal Farm by George Orwell (An allegory for political corruption and power struggles.)
  3. The cave in Plato’s Allegory of the Cave (Symbolizes ignorance and enlightenment.)
  4. The lion in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (Represents Christ and sacrifice.)
  5. The road in The Road Not Taken (Symbolizes life’s choices.)
  6. The conch shell in Lord of the Flies (Represents order and civilization.)
  7. The ring in The Lord of the Rings (Symbolizes power and its corrupting influence.)
  8. The forest in The Scarlet Letter (Represents freedom and the unknown.)
  9. The wall in “Mending Wall” by Robert Frost (Symbolizes barriers between people.)
  10. The snowman in To Kill a Mockingbird (Represents innocence and racism.)
  11. Pandora’s Box (Symbolizes unintended consequences of curiosity.)
  12. The phoenix (Represents rebirth and renewal.)
  13. The garden in The Secret Garden (Symbolizes healing and growth.)
  14. The albatross in The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (Represents guilt and burden.)
  15. The great fish in Jonah and the Whale (Symbolizes divine intervention.)
  16. The labyrinth in Greek mythology (Represents confusion and struggle.)
  17. The apple in Snow White (Symbolizes temptation and betrayal.)
  18. The fence in Fences by August Wilson (Symbolizes separation and protection.)
  19. The green light in The Great Gatsby (Represents hope and unattainable dreams.)
  20. The river in Huckleberry Finn (Symbolizes freedom.)
  21. The scarlet letter itself in The Scarlet Letter (Represents sin and redemption.)
  22. The tree in A Separate Peace (Symbolizes loss of innocence.)
  23. The red balloon in The Red Balloon (Represents childhood innocence.)
  24. The island in Lord of the Flies (Represents society and savagery.)
  25. The chessboard in Through the Looking-Glass (Represents strategy and life’s challenges.)
  26. The sea in The Old Man and the Sea (Symbolizes struggle and isolation.)
  27. The beast in Beauty and the Beast (Represents inner beauty and redemption.)
  28. The white whale in Moby-Dick (Represents obsession and revenge.)
  29. The train in The Polar Express (Symbolizes belief and imagination.)
  30. The farm in Of Mice and Men (Represents unattainable dreams.)

Proverbs

Proverbs are traditional sayings offering wisdom or advice.

Traditional wisdom shines in these figurative language examples that have stood the test of time.

  1. A stitch in time saves nine. (Fixing a small problem now prevents bigger issues.)
  2. A rolling stone gathers no moss. (Staying active prevents stagnation.)
  3. An apple a day keeps the doctor away. (Healthy habits promote well-being.)
  4. Too many cooks spoil the broth. (Too much input can ruin a project.)
  5. The grass is always greener on the other side. (Things often seem better elsewhere.)
  6. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. (Strong people rise to challenges.)
  7. Where there’s smoke, there’s fire. (There’s usually truth behind rumors.)
  8. Haste makes waste. (Rushing leads to mistakes.)
  9. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. (Don’t take on more than you can handle.)
  10. All that glitters is not gold. (Not everything shiny is valuable.)
  11. Don’t put off till tomorrow what you can do today. (Avoid procrastination.)
  12. Birds of a feather flock together. (People with similar interests stick together.)
  13. A picture is worth a thousand words. (Images convey messages effectively.)
  14. The early bird catches the worm. (Those who act quickly succeed.)
  15. A fool and his money are soon parted. (Foolishness leads to financial loss.)
  16. Better safe than sorry. (It’s better to be cautious than regretful.)
  17. You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. (You can’t force someone to act.)
  18. Don’t judge a book by its cover. (Don’t form opinions based on appearances.)
  19. Honesty is the best policy. (Truthfulness is always the right choice.)
  20. Practice what you preach. (Act in accordance with your advice.)
  21. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. (All goals start small.)
  22. The pen is mightier than the sword. (Words are more powerful than violence.)
  23. It takes two to tango. (Partnerships require effort from both sides.)
  24. A penny for your thoughts. (Requesting someone’s opinion.)
  25. Don’t cry over spilled milk. (Don’t lament over irreversible mistakes.)
  26. One good turn deserves another. (Kindness should be reciprocated.)
  27. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. (Leave well-functioning things alone.)
  28. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. (Attention goes to the loudest issues.)
  29. Many hands make light work. (Teamwork reduces individual burden.)
  30. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. (The value of something is in its use.)

For even more figurative language examples, check out this video:

YouTube Video by Mrs Roberts’ Resources — Figurative Language Examples

Final Thoughts: Figurative Language Examples

Figurative language isn’t just the seasoning of writing—it’s the entire spice rack.

Without it, your words are about as exciting as plain toast. Now armed with this mega list of sparkling figurative language examples, you’re ready to metaphor, simile, and pun your way to literary greatness (or at least some solid Instagram captions). So go forth and wield your words wisely.

After all, the pen is mightier than the Wi-Fi outage.

Need more wordplay wizardry? Bookmark this masterpiece and thank me later. Or not. Your choice. 👋

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See you next time, wordsmith! ✍️