Hi! I'm new here, but I have a quick question.
I have been trying to learn how to use words figuratively. My professor gave us a list of words and we had to define them literally, figuratively and contextually. I have the literal and contextual down pat, but when it comes to figuratively, I am at a lost. When I asked the teacher for help, all she could tell me was to use a point of reference and/or connect it to youself. I told her I didn't get that, but she repeated if five or six time so I gave up. Can some one help me?
The words in question:
effrontery, contrivance, serendipitous, ignominy, effeminate, inquietude, and mettle
When you are thinking "figurative", think of a simile that fits the image.
For instance, "mettle" means being brave. A common simile for mettle would be " brave as a cage full of bears."
I would suggest looking in the Thesaurus for the same kinds of animal type comparisons. Which of your words would also apply to the word "antsy"?
If you need further help, please repost.
inquietude
http://www.thesaurus.com
or
http://www.answers.com
What do you think would work with "inquietude"?
??
RoRo, inquietude and "antsy" are perfect together... GREAT!
Of course, I'd be happy to help you understand how to define these words figuratively. Figurative language is a way of expressing ideas or meanings using words that differ from their literal definitions. It often involves the use of metaphors, similes, or other rhetorical devices.
To define these words figuratively, you can try to imagine a scenario or use a comparison that helps convey a deeper meaning. Here are some suggestions for defining the words you provided figuratively:
1. Effrontery: Imagine someone confidently pushing the boundaries of social norms, like a fearless tightrope walker daringly stepping on the thin line between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.
2. Contrivance: Picture someone using creative and clever strategies, like a master chess player devising intricate moves to outsmart their opponent.
3. Serendipitous: Think of unexpected coincidences or moments of luck that bring about happy or fortunate events, like stumbling upon a hidden treasure while wandering through an enchanted forest.
4. Ignominy: Imagine experiencing a deep sense of shame and disgrace, like being publicly stripped of your accomplishments and standing, leaving you shrouded in shadows of humiliation.
5. Effeminate: Picture someone embodying qualities typically associated with femininity, like a delicate and graceful dancer gliding effortlessly across the stage.
6. Inquietude: Visualize a restless and troubled state of mind, like a stormy sea with crashing waves and dark clouds looming overhead.
7. Mettle: Think about someone's resilience, determination, and strength in the face of adversity, like a warrior fearlessly charging into battle with unwavering courage and resolve.
Remember, these suggestions are just examples to get you started. Figurative language allows you to tap into your creativity and use your own experiences or observations as points of reference to express a deeper meaning behind the words. By connecting the words to relatable images or scenarios, you can paint a vivid and imaginative picture in the minds of your readers or listeners.
I hope this explanation and these examples help you better understand how to define words figuratively. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!