Which sentence uses figurative language?

Which sentence uses figurative language?

• A. The storm had a huge effect on the town.
• B. I will finish my homework later.
• C. My backpack weighs a ton.
• D. Where and when it takes place.

Answer: (C)

Figurative language uses expressions not meant to be taken literally to create a vivid image or emphasize something. The sentence about the backpack uses an exaggeration—“weighs a ton”—to mean it feels very heavy, even though the backpack isn’t literally a ton. That exaggeration is hyperbole, a common form of figurative language. The other sentences describe things plainly: the storm’s impact is stated as real, finishing homework later is a straightforward plan, and the last option is not a complete sentence and doesn’t employ figurative language.

Figurative language uses expressions not meant to be taken literally to create a vivid image or emphasize something. The sentence about the backpack uses an exaggeration—“weighs a ton”—to mean it feels very heavy, even though the backpack isn’t literally a ton. That exaggeration is hyperbole, a common form of figurative language. The other sentences describe things plainly: the storm’s impact is stated as real, finishing homework later is a straightforward plan, and the last option is not a complete sentence and doesn’t employ figurative language.