figurative meaning

noun phrase

Pronunciation: ˈfɪɡjərətɪv ˈmiːnɪŋ

Definition

A non-literal sense of a word or phrase that relies on imagery, metaphor, or symbolism to convey an idea.

Examples

• The phrase 'break a leg' has a figurative meaning in theater, where it is used to wish someone good luck.

• Students often struggle to identify the figurative meaning behind the complex metaphors used in classic poetry.

• He took her comment about the project being a 'sinking ship' as a figurative meaning for an inevitable failure.

Synonyms of figurative meaning

Words with a similar meaning to figurative meaning:

• metaphorical
• symbolic
• non-literal
• allegorical

Antonyms of figurative meaning

Words with the opposite meaning to figurative meaning:

• literal

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