Identify the figure of speech used in the following sentences.
1. Let him be rich and weary.
Paradox is a statement that seems absurd or self-contradictory but may actually be true.
2. So innocent arch, so cunningly simple.
When two contradictory qualities of the same thing are mentioned at once, it is called oxymoron.
3. All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand.
When a statement is made emphatic by overstatement, it is called hyperbole.
4. All the world is a stage.
A metaphor is an implied simile. It makes an indirect comparison.
5. The mountains sing together, the hills rejoice and clap hands.
When inanimate objects are spoken of as having life, it becomes personification.
6. Many are called, but few are chosen.
When opposite ideas are placed side by side for emphasis it is called antithesis.
7. Men may come and men may go, but I go on for ever.
8. The child is the father of man.
An epigram is a saying which excites, surprises or grabs attention.
9. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
An epigram is a saying which excites, surprises or grabs attention.
10. I desired my dust to be mingled with yours.
When a statement is made emphatic by overstatement it is called hyperbole.
11. An ambassador is an honest man who lies abroad for the good of his country.
When there is more than one meaning in the same word, it is called pun.
12. The soldier fights for glory and a shilling a day!
When the ideas are presented in a descending order, it is called anticlimax.
Answers
1. Let him be rich and weary. (Paradox)
2. So innocent arch, so cunningly simple. (Oxymoron)
3. All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand. (Hyperbole)
4. All the world is a stage. (Metaphor)
5. The mountains sing together, the hills rejoice and clap hands. (Personification)
6. Many are called, but few are chosen. (Antithesis)
7. Men may come and men may go, but I go on for ever. (Antithesis)
8. The child is the father of man. (Epigram)
9. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread. (Epigram)
10. I desired my dust to be mingled with yours. (Hyperbole)
11. An ambassador is an honest man who lies abroad for the good of his country. (Pun)
12. The soldier fights for glory and a shilling a day! (Anticlimax)
