figurative
/'figjurətiv/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Using words in a non-literal way; metaphorical: Describes language that employs figures of speech, such as metaphors or similes, to suggest a meaning beyond the ordinary, literal interpretation.
- Representing forms, especially the human form; involving artistic representation: Describes art that depicts recognizable objects, especially the human figure, as opposed to abstract art.
Examples of Usage
- Adjective (Language):
- When the poet writes "time is a thief," she is using a figurative expression.
- The phrase "breaking the ice" is a figurative way to describe starting a conversation.
- Adjective (Art):
- The museum's new exhibit focuses on figurative sculpture from the Renaissance.
- While the artist started with abstract shapes, her later work became more figurative.
Advanced Usage
- "Figuratively speaking": A phrase used to signal that what follows is not meant to be understood literally.
- He was, figuratively speaking, drowning in paperwork.
- In contrast to "literal": "Figurative" is often explicitly contrasted with "literal" meaning.
- Is the author describing a real storm, or is the storm figurative, representing inner turmoil?
Variants and Related Words
- Figuratively (adverb): In a figurative manner.
- She meant that figuratively, not as a real threat.
- Figure (noun/verb): The root word, relating to form, shape, or a symbol.
- Figuration (noun): The act of giving shape or form; representation in art.
Synonyms
- Metaphorical: Involving or characterized by metaphor.
- Symbolic: Serving as a symbol; representing something else.
- Non-literal: Not according to the exact meaning of the words.
- Representational (for art): Depicting physical objects realistically.
Antonyms
- Literal: Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory.
- Abstract (for art): Concerned with ideas and qualities rather than observable objects.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- A figure of speech: A word or phrase used in a non-literal sense for rhetorical or vivid effect. "Metaphor" and "simile" are types of figures of speech.
- "Heart of stone" is a figure of speech meaning someone is unfeeling.
Adjective
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consisting of or forming human or animal figures
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a figural design
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the figurative art of the humanistic tradition- Herbert Read
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(used of the meanings of words or text) not literal; using figures of speech
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figurative language
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