Hyperbole

usgb/haɪˈpɜːrbəli/
noun

An extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect.

She used a hyperbole by saying she could sleep for a year, just to convey her tiredness.
Visual representation of "hyperbole" - An extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect

Often appears as...

  • gross hyperbole
  • absurd hyperbole
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hyperbole"
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Emotional Impact

Hyperbole often carries strong emotions to highlight feelings or create humor.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
I’m so hungry I could eat an elephant.
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Avoid Literality

Remember, hyperboles are not meant to be taken literally; they're for emphasis.

Illustration for Avoid Literality
He’s running faster than the wind.
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Common in Speech

Hyperbole is frequently used in everyday conversation, not just in writing.

Illustration for Common in Speech
This bag weighs a ton!
Word comparison image

Compare with

aggrandizementamplificationcaricatureembellishexaggerateextravagancemagnificationoverstate
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Visual representation of the word "Hyperbole"

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