Which figure of speech uses extreme exaggeration?

• A. Irony
• B. Metaphor
• C. Hyperbole
• D. Simile

Answer: (C)

Extreme exaggeration is the hallmark of hyperbole. It uses over-the-top statements to emphasize a point or add humor, without intending to be taken literally. For example, saying “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse” makes the hunger seem huge to create a strong effect. Irony involves saying the opposite of what you mean or a result that contrasts with expectations. A metaphor makes a direct, implicit comparison between two things (like “time is a thief”). A simile compares two things using like or as (for example, “bright as the sun”). When the goal is to emphasize or dramatically heighten a point, hyperbole is the best fit.