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7 Most Commonly Used Literary Devices in Fiction

By georgelthomas on 11 Oct 2022 • ( 0 )

Hi everyone I hope you’re well! Today we’re discussing literary devices.

What is a Literary Device?

A literary device is a technique an author uses to add interest, style, or meaning to their writing and there are a lot of them – some more common than others. So with that in mind, here are:

7 Most Commonly Used Literary Devices in Fiction:

1 Metaphor
Metaphors are a figure of speech used when comparing two things that aren’t alike without using the words “as” or “like.” For example, “The world is a stage.”

2 Similes
Similes are a figure of speech used when comparing two things that aren’t alike using the words “as” or “like.” For example, “She slept like a baby” or “She was as graceful as a gazelle.”

3 Symbol
A symbol is an object, person, or place, that is representative of something else. For example, wedding bands are a symbol of love and commitment.

4 Flashback
A flashback is a part of a story that takes place in the past and can be made up of one or more scenes. Flashbacks are often used to provide background information about a character or setting or to move the plot along.

5 Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is when an author gives hints or clues about what will happen later in the story, which can be achieved through dialogue, description, or events.

6 Personification
Personification is a figure of speech that humanizes or lends human characteristics or traits to non-human things. For example, “The wind was howling in despair.”

7 Hyperbole
Hyperbole is another type of figure of speech. It is used to exaggerate or emphasise something. For example, “I’ve told you a thousand times!”

When used effectively, literary devices can make your writing more exciting and engaging for your reader. So have fun and experiment with them in your own writing!

As always, thanks for reading and spending your time here!

Until next time,

George