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figurative

figurative
Adjective
comp: more figurativesup: most figurative

This term describes language that moves beyond the strict, dictionary definition of words to evoke a mental image or emotional response. It is the primary mechanism for metaphors and similes, allowing a speaker to describe an abstract concept by comparing it to something concrete. In a linguistic context, it is the direct opposite of literal.

In the realm of visual arts, the term shifts meaning to describe work that is representational. It refers to art that depicts recognizable objects or figures from the real world, distinguishing it from abstract art which focuses on shapes, colors, and textures without attempting to mirror physical reality.

Meanings

Adjectivefigurative

Departing from a literal use of words to create a more vivid or imaginative effect.

The phrase was meant in a figurative sense rather than a literal one.

Adjectivefigurative

Representing something by means of a figure or a visual image, especially in art.

Examples

I was speaking in a figurative sense when I said the project was a nightmare.

I was speaking in a figurative sense when I said the project was a nightmare.

Business

The poet uses figurative language to evoke a sense of longing.

The poet uses figurative language to evoke a sense of longing.

School Life

Wait, are you being literal or figurative right now?

Wait, are you being literal or figurative right now?

He described the city as a concrete jungle, which is purely figurative.

He described the city as a concrete jungle, which is purely figurative.

Travel

The gallery features several figurative paintings of the local villagers.

The gallery features several figurative paintings of the local villagers.

I wonder if this sculpture is meant to be figurative or abstract.

I wonder if this sculpture is meant to be figurative or abstract.

The detective noted that the witness used figurative descriptions of the suspect.

The detective noted that the witness used figurative descriptions of the suspect.

Detective

Her art shifted from abstract shapes to more figurative representations of the human form.

Her art shifted from abstract shapes to more figurative representations of the human form.

The heart is often used as a figurative symbol for love in romantic poetry.

The heart is often used as a figurative symbol for love in romantic poetry.

Romance

Related Words

Última actualización: May 2026Reportar un error