What figure of speech applies a word or phrase to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable?

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Multiple Choice

What figure of speech applies a word or phrase to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable?

Metaphor is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to something that it isn’t literally applicable to, creating a direct comparison. For example, saying “Time is a thief” treats time as if it were a thief stealing moments, even though time isn’t literally a thief. This direct link, without using like or as, distinguishes a metaphor from other devices. A simile would compare using like or as, hyperbole involves exaggeration, and personification gives human traits to nonhuman things. So the description points to metaphor.

Metaphor is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to something that it isn’t literally applicable to, creating a direct comparison. For example, saying “Time is a thief” treats time as if it were a thief stealing moments, even though time isn’t literally a thief. This direct link, without using like or as, distinguishes a metaphor from other devices. A simile would compare using like or as, hyperbole involves exaggeration, and personification gives human traits to nonhuman things. So the description points to metaphor.

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