Hyperbole – exaggerated statement or claim
Hyperbole is the use of exaggeration to highlight a particular point, quality, attribute or quantity. Hyperbolic statements are not to be taken literally but do contain an element of truth about a person, object or situation.
You may hear people say “hyperbole” exactly as it is written – “hi-per-bole”. However, it should be pronounced “hi-purrb-oh-lee.
The following should help you remember what hyperbole is:
A high purring cat (hyperbole) was prowling the city, but it sounded like exaggeration to some people…
Hyperbole is used for effect – it deliberately goes “over the top” and can introduce an element of humour.
Examples of hyperbole in sentences:
I’ve told you a million times I’m not interested.
He had tons of cheese in the supermarket trolley.
My feet are killing me.
I could sleep for a year.
