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Hyperboles

Author: Nikki Hansen

Words to Know

Figure of Speech: The use of a word that diverges from its normal meaning, or a phrase with a specialized meaning not based on the literal meaning of the words.

Hyperbole: A hyperbole (pronounced hi-PURR-bowl-ee) is the use of exaggeration as a figure of speech. A hyperbole is used to evoke strong feelings, or to create a strong impression, but is not meant to be taken literally.

Example: My backpack weighs a ton. → This is an exaggeration. If your backpack literally weighed a ton, you couldn't carry it!

Source: wiki, nikki

When is a hyperbole used?

Hyperboles are often used in poetry, songs and even news stories to help enhance the message.

Example (song lyrics):

"She's got me wrapped around her little finger"  

"Because the sky is blue, it makes me cry"

Example (poetry):

Those children nursed, deliver'd from thy brain

Example (news story): 

The republicans took the election by a landslide.


Can you think of places where you may have seen or heard a hyperbole?

Source: wiki, cam strother, nikki

Highlighting Hyperboles

These are the lyrics to the song posted to the packet. In this video, I go through the lyrics and highlight the hyperboles, and provide a brief commentary.

Hyperboles In Real Life!

This is a facebook chat (I'm sure you're all familiar with facebook) between my friend and I. We both use hyperboles throughout the conversation. Can you pick them out?

Source: ray oneel, me, facebook