Literary Terms Flash Cards

Learn literary devices and terms with their definitions.

Free literary terms flash cards with 10 terms and definitions. Flip through each card to study, or shuffle for a new order. Printable for classroom or homework use.

Literary Terms Terms and Definitions

METAPHOR
Comparison without using 'like' or 'as'
SIMILE
Comparison using 'like' or 'as'
IRONY
Contrast between expectation and reality
ALLITERATION
Repetition of initial consonant sounds
HYPERBOLE
Extreme exaggeration for effect
IMAGERY
Vivid language appealing to the senses
SYMBOLISM
Using objects to represent larger ideas
FORESHADOW
Hints about what will happen later
THEME
Central message or lesson of a story
NARRATOR
Voice that tells the story

About Literary Terms

Literary terms are the tools writers use to craft compelling stories and poems. These flash cards help students recognize and understand common literary devices, from metaphor and simile to foreshadowing and irony, building stronger analytical reading skills.

Literary Terms Vocabulary

These flash cards pair literary terms with their definitions. Students flip cards to learn terms like METAPHOR (a comparison without using 'like' or 'as'), SIMILE (a comparison using 'like' or 'as'), and IRONY (a contrast between expectation and reality).

How to Use These Flash Cards in Class

After studying with these flash cards, have students find examples of each literary device in a story or poem the class is reading. Students can create a literary device scavenger hunt for their classmates, reinforcing recognition of these techniques in real texts.

Printable Literary Terms Flash Cards

Click the print button to print these literary terms flash cards. The printable version lists all terms and definitions, perfect for classroom handouts or homework.

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