Simile

• A simile is a comparison which uses the words like or as. For example, "my grandfather is as stubborn as a mule" does not state that my grandfather is actually a mule; instead, it shows that my grandfather, like a mule, has a high degree of stubbornness.
  
  

Metaphor

• A metaphor makes a comparison by stating that something actually is something else even though the two things may not seem to be alike. The song "The Wind Beneath My Wings" uses the metaphor of wind to show how a supportive person helps lift up another to soar to great heights.
  
  

Personification

• Personification gives human characteristics to a non-human thing. If you have ever driven a car that was on the verge of breaking down and you spoke to the car trying to convince it just to get you home, then you have used personification.
  
  

Symbol

• A symbol is a concrete image which stands for an abstract concept. We are all aware that a dove is a symbol of peace and that the eagle symbolizes freedom. While it would be difficult to paint a picture of peace or freedom, we can easily visualize a dove or eagle.
  
  

Hyperbole

• Hyperbole is an extreme over statement to get a point across. The exaggeration is not to be taken literally, but demonstrates the degree of something. "Your mama is so ugly" type of jokes use hyperbole to drive the point home.
  
  

Synecdoche

• Synecdoche uses one part of something to stand for the whole thing. In prayer, "Give us this day our daily bread" does not mean that only bread is being requested. Bread stands for sustenance in general.