The Opposite(Antonym) of “literal”
The antonyms of literal are figurative, metaphorical, and symbolic. These antonyms describe language that is not meant to be taken literally, but rather convey a deeper or more abstract meaning.
Explore all Antonyms of “literal”
Definitions and Examples of figurative, metaphorical, symbolic
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Using figures of speech to create a deeper or more imaginative meaning.
Example
The poet used figurative language to describe the sunset, comparing it to a blazing fire in the sky.
Describing something by comparing it to something else, without using the words 'like' or 'as'.
Example
Her eyes were like pools of water is a simile, but saying her eyes were pools of water is metaphorical.
Representing something else, often an abstract idea or concept.
Example
The dove is a symbolic representation of peace and love.
Key Differences: figurative vs metaphorical vs symbolic
- 1Figurative language uses figures of speech to create a deeper or more imaginative meaning.
- 2Metaphorical language describes something by comparing it to something else, without using the words 'like' or 'as'.
- 3Symbolic language represents something else, often an abstract idea or concept.
Effective Usage of figurative, metaphorical, symbolic
- 1Literary Analysis: Use these antonyms to analyze and interpret literature.
- 2Creative Writing: Incorporate these antonyms in writing to add depth and complexity to language.
- 3Critical Thinking: Utilize these antonyms to think more deeply about language and its meaning.
Remember this!
The antonyms of literal are figurative, metaphorical, and symbolic. Use these antonyms to analyze and interpret literature, add depth and complexity to language in creative writing, and think more deeply about language and its meaning.
