What is a Hyperbole in Literary Terms? and its Functions

Hyperbole is a figure of speech, which means over-statement or over- exaggeration. It is derived from the Greek word and mainly used to emphasize a specific piece of information, feeling and any other statement. Besides, it is also used to create humor so as to get the attention of the listeners. Hyperbole is a rhetorical device and sometimes called as auxesis. Many writers or speakers use hyperbole in poetry and oratory in order to create an impression or emphasize their words or to instill strong feelings.

Hyperbole is used in the literature for exaggeration, but it is not meant to be taken literary or exactly. In simple words, the literal interpretation of hyperbole cannot be true, but the exaggeration technique successfully expresses a certain point, which a speaker has intended to convey. For instance, ‘Sherry runs faster than the winds’ (Here, according to the speaker’s point of view, Sherry’s speed is very fast, but it was not said in a literal tone). The speaker has used a hyperbole to describe Sherry’s running pace.

Hyperbole is a metaphorical term, which creates a humorous effect and makes the text amusing and entertaining. Hyperbole can be used in different forms such as excitement, pain, humor, etc. Based on the context, an author uses hyperbole to express his intention, opinion or viewpoint. Let us see the functions of hyperbole in detail.

Functions of Hyperbole

•    Hyperbole is a literary technique, which is used intentionally to exaggerate something and to create certain effects.

•    Hyperbole is used in prose to create humor or to emphasize something. It can be used in a story to empathize a famous feature of character or a particular action or feeling.

•    In literature, hyperbole depends on imagery, which is a visual description. Through hyperbole, an author creates a humorous effect. For example, ‘I am so hungry that I could eat a horse’ or ‘I went home and made the biggest sandwich of all time’.

•    Hyperbole is widely used in poetry. It is also used to emphasize opposing ideas or statements.