Hyperbole

Hyperbole Definition

Hyperbole, derived from a Greek word meaning “over-casting” is a figure of speech, which involves an exaggeration of ideas for the sake of emphasis.

An hyperbole is an exaggeration which may be used for emphasis and humor. Hyperboles are used in speaking and writing for effect or to make a boring story more interesting.

It is a device that we employ in our day-to-day speech. For instance, when you meet a friend after a long time, you say, “Ages have passed since I last saw you”. You may not have met him for three or four hours or a day, but the use of the word “ages” exaggerates this statement to add emphasis to your wait.  Therefore, a hyperbole is an unreal exaggeration to emphasize the real situation. Some other common Hyperbole examples are given below.

Common Examples of Hyperbole

1. My grandmother is as old as the hills.
2. Your suitcase weighs a ton!
3. She is as heavy as an elephant!
4. I am dying of shame.
5. I am trying to solve a million issues these days. 

Hyperbole Examples for Children

• It was so cold I saw polar bears wearing jackets.
• I am so hungry I could eat a horse.
• I had a ton of chores to do.
• If I can’t get a Smartphone, I will die.
• She is as thin as a toothpick.
• This car goes faster than the speed of light.
• Our new house cost a bazillion dollars.
• We are poor and don’t have two cents to rub together.
• The car is as fast as greased lightning.
• He's got tons of video games.
• You could have knocked me over with a feather.
• Her brain is the size of a pea.
• Grandpa is older than dirt.
• My mom is going to kill me.
• Old Mr. Smith has been teaching here since the Stone Age.

It is important not to confuse hyperbole with simile and metaphor. It does make a comparison but unlike simile and metaphor, hyperbole has a humorous effect created by an overstatement.

Function of Hyperbole

The above arguments make clear the use of hyperbole. In our daily conversation, we use hyperbole to emphasize for an amusing effect. However, in literature it has very serious implications. By using hyperbole, a writer or a poet makes common human feelings remarkable and intense to such an extent that they do not remain ordinary. In literature, usage of hyperbole develops contrasts. When one thing is described with an over-statement and the other thing is presented normally, a striking contrast is developed. This technique is employed to catch the reader’s attention.