figurative
Translation
figurative, metaphorical, symbolic
Examples
'A heart of stone' is a figurative expression.
'A heart of stone' is a figurative expression.
Grammar Patterns
((...)) figurative + noun a figurative use of the word.
Similar Words
Synonyms: metaphorical, symbolic, non-literal; Antonyms: literal, actual.
Etymology
From Latin 'figura' (a shape, form, figure). The suffix '-ive' indicates an adjective.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'figure of speech'. It's not literal; it uses words in a different 'figure' or shape of meaning.