Simile

Using a simile is a way of comparing. However, unlike metaphors, similes use the word "like" and "as," to compare two things.

Example: That man is brave as a lion.

Authors use similes to show the comparison of two things that are not really alike and show how their meanings fit in to each other's world using context.

Metaphor

A metaphor compares two different things that are not entirely alike. Metaphors are unlikely similes because they do not use words like "like" and "as."

Example: He's a walking encyclopedia.

Authors use metaphors in their writing to show figurative language, and to express emotion to the reader and to their self.

Hyperbole

A hyperbole is an over exaggerated statement, a hyperbole is not meant to be taken literally.

Example: I've eaten about a million cookies today!

Authors would use Hyperbole's to get some extra effect from the reader, or to communicate ideas.

Personification

A personification is when someone gives something non-human human characteristics to make it seem like the non-humans are doing human activities.

Example: The wind whistled throughout the day.

Authors can use Personifications to put a little bit more creativity into the non-human that they are describing.