easy
The phrase had a figurative meaning.
What does Figurative mean?
using words creatively, not exactly literally
Dictionary definition
Using words in a creative or nonliteral way to express meaning.
Example sentences
Figurative in a sentence
medium
Saying time flies is figurative language.
hard
Figurative writing can help readers picture an idea in a fresh way.
Writing practice
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Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Figurative
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does figurative mean?
The correct answer matches the meaning of figurative.
Practice 2
Which word or phrase is closest in meaning to figurative?
Metaphorical is closest because figurative means using words creatively, not exactly literally.
Practice 3
Which word or phrase is most opposite in meaning to figurative?
Literal contrasts with figurative.
Practice complete
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Figurative
Voice settings
Sounds like
fig · yer · uh · tiv · strongest beat: fig
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordFigurative.
Partadjective.
MeaningFigurative means using words creatively, not exactly literally.
ExampleExample: The phrase had a figurative meaning.
Word breakdown
4 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- fig · yer · uh · tiv
- Strongest beat
- fig
- Ending
- tiv
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on fig.
Your turn
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Nice work—you practiced figurative.
Synonyms
Words like Figurative
metaphoricalClose in meaning in many contexts.
nonliteralClose in meaning in many contexts.
Antonyms
Opposite words
Synonym practice
Want to practice figurative synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "The figurative phrase painted a picture with words," then compare close word choices. Practice figurative synonyms.
Word family
Figurative word family
Base word
figure
adjective
figurative
Using words in a nonliteral way.
adverb
figuratively
In a figurative way.
Related words
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Learning activities
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Context Clue Challenge
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Synonym Search
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