Figure of speech?

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Stumped by “Figure of Speech?” Crack This Crossword Clue!

Ah, the crossword. That seemingly simple grid of squares can become a battlefield of linguistic wits. Today’s challenge? A particularly tricky clue: “Figure of speech?“. This isn’t your garden-variety definition clue; it demands a deeper understanding of rhetorical devices. Forget simple synonyms – we’re diving into the world of metaphors, similes, and everything in between.

Let’s tackle this head-on. What makes a phrase a “figure of speech?” It’s the intentional departure from literal language, a creative twist that adds emphasis, imagery, or emotional depth. Consider the possibilities:

Is it a comparison?

Think similes (using “like” or “as”) and metaphors (direct comparisons). Are we looking for a specific type of comparison, perhaps one that uses personification, giving human qualities to inanimate objects or animals? Or maybe a hyperbole, an extravagant exaggeration for effect?

Does it involve sound?

Onomatopoeia – words that mimic sounds – could be a contender. Or perhaps alliteration, the repetition of consonant sounds, or assonance, the repetition of vowel sounds. These rely less on meaning and more on the musicality of language.

Is it ironic or sarcastic?

Could the answer be a term describing a figure of speech that relies on unexpected meaning? Think about understatement, where something is deliberately minimized, or irony, where the intended meaning is the opposite of the literal one.

Does it relate to repetition or structure?

Consider anaphora (repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses) or chiasmus (a reversal in the order of words in two parallel phrases). These are more structural figures of speech.

Could it be a general term encompassing many types?

The clue’s broadness suggests it might not be looking for a specific type but rather a more overarching term referring to the category itself.

This crossword clue is a test of your knowledge of rhetorical devices. It demands careful consideration of the various possibilities, and a thorough understanding of the many ways language can be used figuratively. So, grab your thesaurus, flex your literary muscles, and let’s see if you can crack this linguistic nut! Remember to leave your answers (and any helpful hints!) in the comments below. Good luck!

Figure of speech?

Available Answers:

ORATOR.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 8 Dec 24, Sunday