Word
hyperbole
Meanings
a deliberate and obvious exaggeration used to emphasize a point or create humor
an exaggerated statement or claim that is not meant to be understood literally
Definition
Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration used for emphasis or humor.
Hyperbole means using extreme exaggeration to make a point, not to be taken literally. People use it in everyday speech, jokes, advertising, and literature to sound stronger or more dramatic. The listener understands it is not a factual statement. It can add emotion, emphasis, or comic effect.
Examples
- Saying I waited a million years is hyperbole.
- The ad relies on hyperbole to grab attention.
- Her hyperbole made the story funnier than the truth.
- Calling the backpack a ton is obvious hyperbole.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes treat hyperbole as a lie, but it is exaggeration that is clearly not meant to be taken literally.
More at B2 level
- fascism Fascism is an extreme right-wing political system with a powerful dictator, strong nationalism, and…
- gaslighting Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes someone doubt their own memory, judg…
- narcissist A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered and craves admiration while showing little…
- niche A niche is a specialized place, role, or market that suits a particular person or product.
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
More nouns
- fascism Fascism is an extreme right-wing political system with a powerful dictator, strong nationalism, and…
- gaslighting Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes someone doubt their own memory, judg…
- narcissist A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered and craves admiration while showing little…
- empathy Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings.
- metaphor A metaphor is a way of describing something by saying it is something else to create a clear image …