I need help ! I dont understand..

Question

Why would an author choose to use figurative language?

Answer 1

Figurative language has its place even in expository writing. Besides making writing more interesting to read, figurative language can make an abstract idea more concrete and easier to understand. Because they compare two things that are not alike, metaphors in particular allow readers to more quickly and easily understand a concept.

For example, let's say that I write, "Care.com is the Uber for caregivers." Anyone familiar with how Uber works will understand immediately that Care.com is an app that connects caregivers with people who need their services, in much the same way that Uber is an app that connects drivers with people who need a ride. Using that metaphor allows you to make your point with fewer words, while at the same time making your writing more interesting.

One caution: In using metaphors, you need to make sure your audience is familiar with the concept you are using to illustrate the new concept. The example above will mean nothing to a reader who has no idea what Uber is or how it works.

Answer 2

Writers use figurative language to make their work more interesting or dramatic. They may want to paint a picture in the reader's mind, which is more effective using devices like metaphors and similes than literal language, which only states facts. Writers of fiction tend to use figurative language, while you're less likely to see it in academic papers and more expository writing.