Definition: Hyperbole, derived from a Greek word meaning “over-casting” is a figure of speech that consists of over exaggerating ideas for the sake of emphasis. Hyperbole is a device that is deployed in our day-to-day speech. For example, when you meet a friend after a long time, you say, “Ages have passed since I last saw you”. You may not have met him or her for an hour or two; but the use of the word “ages” exaggerates this statement to add emphasis to the weight. A hyperbole is an exaggeration used to emphasize and put meaning to a word. This list is describing a few common hyperboles.
Your suitcase weighs a ton!
She is as heavy as an elephant!
To summarize, we use hyperboles in our every day conversation for mere amusement. When it is used in literature, a writer or a poet is trying to catch the reader’s attention.
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