Key Literary Techniques

A strong understanding of literary techniques is essential for GCSE English Language Paper 1. You need to be able to identify techniques in the extract and — more importantly — analyse their effects on the reader. This lesson provides a comprehensive reference guide to the techniques you are most likely to encounter.

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Figurative Language

Figurative language is language that goes beyond its literal meaning to create vivid images, comparisons, or effects.

Metaphor

A metaphor describes something as if it is something else, without using "like" or "as."

Example	Analysis
"Time is a thief"	Suggests time steals moments from us — creates a sense of loss and urgency
"The sea of grief"	Implies grief is vast, deep, and overwhelming — the character is drowning in emotion
"Her voice was velvet"	Suggests smoothness, luxury, and warmth — creates a sense of comfort or seduction

Extended metaphor: When a metaphor is developed across several sentences or paragraphs, building a sustained comparison.

Simile

A simile compares two things using "like" or "as."