✅ Hyperbole ✅
Hyperbole, from the Greek word meaning "excess", is a figure of speech that uses extreme exaggeration to make a point or show emphasis.  It is the opposite of an understatement. 
A hyperbole is a type of figurative language. Therefore, a hyperbole is not meant to be taken literally. A hyperbole is an overstatement that exaggerates a particular condition for emphasis.
You can find examples of hyperbole in literature and everyday speech. You wouldn’t want to use it in nonfiction works, like reports or research papers, but it’s perfect for creative writing and communication, especially when you want to add color to a character or humor to a story.
Hyperboles are not comparisons, like similes and metaphors, but extravagant and even ridiculous overstatements, not meant to be taken literally. In literature, hyperbole will often be used to show contrast or catch the reader's attention. Let’s take a closer look.
Example from Maniac Magee: "arms and legs pistoning to a blur" 
Hyperboles in Everyday Use: 
I've told you a million times to go clean your room. 
It was so cold, I saw a polar bear wearing a hat! 
I have a million things  to do today. 
I had a ton of homework. 
The car went faster than the speed of light. 
He's got a ton of money. 
Hyperboles to Express Size: 
That mall is large enough to have its own zip code.
I ate so much on Thanksgiving, I think I weigh more than a whale! 
His stomach is a bottomless pit! 
Hyperboles to Express Desperation: 
If I can't get a smartphone, I will die! 
My mom is going to kill me when she finds that out! 
This is so boring, just kill me now! 
My mom works her fingers to the bone. 
I had a ton of chores to do. 
I'm so hungry I could eat a horse. 
Hyperboles to Exaggerate Expense: 
Our new house cost a bazillion dollars. 
We don't have two cents to rub together. 
He's got a ton of video games!
Hyperbole to Exaggerate Time:
Old Mr. Smith has been teaching here since the stone age. 
My dad is always working. 
We waited for centuries for the latest game to be released. 
It will only take me two seconds to get there. 
You're walking slower than a snail! 
Hyperboles in Ads: 
Disneyland - The happiest place on earth. 
Energizer - Keeps going and going and going... 
Redbull - It gives you wings. 
Geico - It's so easy, a caveman can do it. 
✅ Hyperbole Scavenger Hunt ✅ 
Search through the list of hyperboles we've collected as a class.  Illustrate the literal meaning and figurative meaning of the hyperbole.

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