Figurative Language vs Imagery
Most people assume that figurative language & imagery are the same. They are very similar. They are both built on figures of speech. However, they are not the same. Let us have a look at the differences between figurative language & imagery.
| FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE | IMAGERY |
| 1. Figurative language is language which uses words or expressions with meanings that are different from its literal interpretation. | 1. Imagery is the use of descriptive language that engages the human senses. |
| 2. May not necessarily appeal to our senses. | 2. It always appeals to our senses. |
| Eg:- Its raining cats & dogs. This means it is raining heavily, not a large group of animals. | Eg:- I covered my nose as the stagnant water in the tank had the smell of rotting eggs. |
What is Figurative Language?
Figurative language is one of the ways of expressing ourselves that does not restrict to a word’s real meaning. It is used to give a creative edge to written or spoken language or when we have to explain a complicated idea. Fiction writers often are seen using figurative language to engage their audience by using a more creative tone which provokes thinking & at times humor. This makes fiction writing interesting & dramatic. Figurative language refers to a way of expressing oneself by not using a word’s realistic meaning. Common in comparisons & exaggerations, it is usually used to add creativity to written or spoken language or to explain a complicated idea.