How Do You Spell FIGURATIVE?

Pronunciation: [fˈɪɡjʊɹˌe͡ɪtɪv] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "figurative" can be quite confusing and challenging for many people, as it contains multiple letters that can be pronounced in different ways. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the correct pronunciation of "figurative" is /ˈfɪɡjərətɪv/. This means that the word begins with the "f" sound, followed by the "ih" sound, and then the "g" sound. The "u" and "a" sounds are pronounced separately, and the word ends with the "tiv" sound.

FIGURATIVE Meaning and Definition

  1. Figurative is an adjective that describes language or expressions that are not meant to be taken literally, but instead convey a different or deeper meaning. It pertains to the use of figures of speech, metaphors, or symbolism to convey abstract ideas, emotions, or concepts that cannot be expressed with literal language alone.

    In figurative language, words or phrases are employed in a way that deviates from their literal meaning, often to create vivid imagery, evoke emotions, or provide new perspectives. It allows writers, poets, or speakers to add layers of meaning, complexity, and richness to their words, encouraging readers or listeners to engage on a deeper level with the text or conversation.

    Common forms of figurative language include metaphors, where a comparison is made between two seemingly unrelated things to highlight a shared characteristic, and similes, which use "like" or "as" to draw comparisons. Other forms include personification, when inanimate objects are attributed with human qualities, and hyperbole, which involves deliberate exaggeration for emphasis.

    Figurative language can be found in poetry, literature, song lyrics, and everyday speech. Its usage adds depth, color, and creativity to communication, enabling the audience to analyze, interpret, and appreciate the underlying message or artistic intention. By going beyond the literal and embracing the figurative, writers and speakers can deliver powerful and captivating expressions that captivate and resonate with their audience.

  2. Not real; representing something else; typical.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FIGURATIVE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for FIGURATIVE

Etymology of FIGURATIVE

The word "figurative" has its etymology rooted in the Latin word "figurativus", derived from the verb "figurare" which means "to form, fashion, or shape". This Latin term is derived from another Latin word "figura" translating to "form, shape, or figure". The original sense of "figurative" in Latin was more closely associated with the act of giving form or outline to something, rather than its modern meaning of non-literal or metaphorical. Over time, the English language adopted this term, and it now refers to language that uses figures of speech, metaphors, or symbolism to convey meaning beyond the literal sense.

Similar spelling words for FIGURATIVE

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