Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment (KPA) Practice Test

What is a simile?

1. A literary device that compares two different things using like or as

2. A statement of positive or negative judgment

3. A device that emphasizes an idea

4. A form of hyperbole

The correct answer is: A literary device that compares two different things using like or as

A simile is a literary device that makes a comparison between two different things by using the words "like" or "as." This technique helps create vivid imagery and connections between concepts, allowing readers to understand one idea in terms of another. For example, saying "as brave as a lion" likens the quality of bravery directly to the well-known ferocity of a lion, making the description more relatable and impactful. This use of comparative language is essential in poetry and prose, as it enhances the reader's experience and deepens understanding. The other choices refer to different literary concepts. A statement of positive or negative judgment points towards evaluative language rather than comparison. Emphasizing an idea can achieve a strong effect but does not define the specific relationship between two different entities that a simile does. Hyperbole, known for its exaggeration for effect, does not involve comparison in the way a simile does. Therefore, the defining characteristic of a simile lies in its structure of comparison using "like" or "as."