figure of speech crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "figure of speech" to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "figure of speech crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUN: A play on words, often humorous, that uses a word or phrase with multiple meanings or one that sounds like another.
5 Letters
IDIOM: A group of words established by usage as having a meaning not deducible from those of the individual words (e.g., "raining cats and dogs").
6 Letters
SIMILE: A figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind, used to make a description more emphatic or vivid (e.g., "as brave as a lion," "crazy like a fox").
8 Letters
METAPHOR: A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable (e.g., "he is a lion in battle").
9 Letters
HYPERBOLE: Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect (e.g., "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse").
12 Letters
ONOMATOPOEIA: The formation of a word from a sound associated with what is named (e.g., cuckoo, sizzle, splash, boom).
More About "figure of speech crossword clue"
Figures of speech are essential elements of language that add richness, depth, and color to our communication. They are phrases or words used in a non-literal sense to create a particular effect, such as emphasis, clarity, or emotional impact. From the simple simile to the complex metaphor, understanding these linguistic devices is not only key to appreciating literature but also highly beneficial for solving crosswords.
Crossword setters frequently use figures of speech both as direct answers and indirectly within the clues themselves. A clue might describe a characteristic of a figure of speech, or it might employ one to lead you to a different word. Familiarity with common types like personification, alliteration, and irony can give you a significant edge when tackling challenging puzzles.
This page provides the most common and relevant solutions for "figure of speech" to aid your crossword endeavors. If you've encountered this clue, chances are one of the answers above will fit your grid, complete with a concise explanation to deepen your understanding.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required. This is your primary filter for narrowing down potential answers, especially for broad clues like "figure of speech."
- Think of Synonyms and Related Concepts: If a common figure of speech doesn't fit, think about terms that describe them or are closely related. Sometimes the clue hints at the function or effect of a figure of speech.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Crossword clues are often part of a larger theme or linked to other answers. The surrounding letters or previously solved words can provide vital hints to the specific figure of speech required.
- Expand Your Literary Vocabulary: The more figures of speech you know (beyond the basics), the better equipped you'll be. Terms like synecdoche, metonymy, and chiasmus, while less common, do appear in more advanced puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a figure of speech?
A figure of speech is a word or phrase that uses figurative language – language that goes beyond the literal meaning of words to create a more vivid or impactful effect. They are common in literature, poetry, and everyday communication.
How do figures of speech appear in crossword clues?
Crossword clues related to figures of speech often test your knowledge of literary terms (e.g., 'A comparison using like or as' for SIMILE) or use figurative language within the clue itself, requiring you to think abstractly or interpret a hidden meaning.
Can a single figure of speech have multiple crossword answers?
Yes, a general clue like 'figure of speech' can have many different correct answers depending on the required letter count and the specific type of figure of speech the puzzle setter had in mind. Common examples include IDIOM, SIMILE, METAPHOR, and PUN, among others.