Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment (KPA) Practice Test

Which figure of speech is defined as exaggeration or overstatement?

1. Metaphor

2. Simile

3. Hyperbole

4. Idiom

The correct answer is: Hyperbole

Hyperbole is the figure of speech that embodies exaggeration or overstatement. It is often used to create emphasis or a dramatic effect, helping to convey strong feelings or impressions that are not meant to be taken literally. For instance, saying "I've told you a million times" strongly emphasizes the speaker's frustration and reinforces the meaning behind the statement, even though the actual number of times is far less. In contrast, a metaphor makes implicit comparisons between two unrelated subjects, while a simile does so explicitly by using "like" or "as." An idiom refers to a phrase where the meaning is not directly derived from the words used, signifying concepts or ideas through culturally understood expressions. These figures of speech contribute to language richness in different ways, but hyperbole stands out for its use of exaggeration to evoke emotional responses or highlight situations dramatically.