What is figurative language?

Figurative language is wording that means more than its literal sense. A simile compares with “like” or “as” (“the lake was as still as glass”); a metaphor states one thing is another (“the classroom was a zoo”); personification gives human qualities to objects (“the wind argued with the trees”). Used sparingly, it makes writing vivid and memorable.

The danger is overuse: one fresh, fitting image beats three tired ones (“quiet as a mouse”). Markers reward originality and restraint.