Figures of speech (majas) are one of the essential elements in literary works and written texts that serve to provide beauty as well as deep meaning to a sentence or piece of writing. Simply put, a figure of speech is a stylistic device used by authors to convey ideas, emotions, and messages in a unique and engaging way.
According to Keraf (2006), a figure of speech—or stylistic language—originates from the Latin word stilus, which originally meant a writing tool. Over time, its meaning evolved into a technique for organizing language with distinctive characteristics. Stylistic language is often referred to as the way a language is used for specific purposes and contexts.
In the context of the Indonesian language, figures of speech function not only as decorative elements but also as expressive tools that can emphasize, satirize, metaphorize, and more. They enhance the meaning and weight of a message. Therefore, it is natural that stylistic language is influenced by the author’s personality and way of thinking. When used effectively, figures of speech can captivate the reader; conversely, if misused, the intended message may become ineffective or even meaningless.
Types of Figures of Speech
According to the Ministry of National Education (Depdiknas, 2005) and various linguists, figures of speech can be divided into several major types commonly used in literature and everyday texts:
1. Figures of Comparison
Including several types, such as:
- Allegory: Uses symbolic narratives to convey moral or abstract ideas, e.g., a symbolic story.
- Metaphor: Implied comparison without explicit connectors, e.g., “a sea of fire” for a large blaze.
- Personification: Assigns human traits to inanimate objects or animals. Example: “the wind whispered.”
- Simile: Uses explicit comparison with words like as or like.
- Hyperbole: Exaggerates for emphasis.
2. Figures of Emphasis
Such as pleonasm, repetition, and parallelism, which serve to reinforce the message rhetorically.
3. Figures of Opposition
Including irony, litotes, and antithesis, which contain contrasting or subtly mocking meanings.
4. Figures of Satire
Used to convey criticism or implied mockery, such as irony and cynicism.
These types demonstrate the richness and flexibility of language in conveying messages and meanings aesthetically. Figures of speech allow authors not only to inform but also to breathe life into their work and touch the reader emotionally.
Also Read : What is Persuasive Speech
Examples of Figures of Speech
To better understand the use of figures of speech, here are several examples commonly found in Indonesian texts:
- Allegory:
An entire story becomes a symbol to convey a hidden meaning or moral.
Example: “A full moon shining boldly over the dense forest speaks of honesty piercing the darkness of doubt.” - Metaphor:
Compares two different things without using words like like or as.
Example: “Your mind is a harbor where storms of ideas dock and anchor.” - Metonymy:
Replaces the name of something with a related concept in time, space, or association.
Example: “He reads Tere Liye,” meaning he reads books written by Tere Liye. - Litotes:
Expresses something significant using intentionally mild or understated words.
Example: “He is not unintelligent.” - Hyperbole:
Exaggerates a point to create dramatic or humorous emphasis.
Example: “I’ve been waiting for a thousand years.” - Euphemism:
Uses gentler language to replace harsh or taboo expressions.
Example: “He is on a long journey to a more peaceful world,” meaning he has passed away. - Personification:
Attributes human characteristics to inanimate objects.
Example: “The wind whispered softly in my ears.” - Irony:
States the opposite of what is meant, often as subtle sarcasm.
Example: “Wow, you’re really fast at your work!” (when someone is being slow) - Sarcasm:
A harsh and direct form of ridicule or mockery.
Example: “Oh great, you turned chaos into a masterpiece.” - Cynicism:
Contains distrustful or derogatory remarks with a skeptical tone.
Example: “Of course, everyone must love the surprise you just pulled off…” - Pleonasm:
Uses redundant expressions for emphasis.
Example: “Descend downwards.” - Repetition (Repetisi):
Repeats words or phrases for stronger emphasis.
Example: “Keep walking, walking, and walking until you arrive.” - Rhetorical Question:
A question posed without expecting an answer, used to stress a point.
Example: “Who doesn’t want happiness?” - Alliteration:
Repetition of initial consonant sounds in a series of words.
Example: “Glistening glass glimmered in the glowing garden.”
This is often taught in language studies to enrich language skills and deepen literary appreciation.
Functions of Figures of Speech
Figures of speech serve several core purposes in literary works and communication:
- To Beautify Language
They bring life, appeal, and richness to expressions. Simple sentences can become verbal works of art. - To Convey Deeper Meaning
They express implicit messages that might not be effectively conveyed directly, adding layers of interpretation. - To Stimulate Reader’s Imagination
They evoke emotions and mental imagery, making reading a vivid and memorable experience. - To Strengthen Messages
In rhetoric, figures of speech underline and emphasize messages, making them more impactful and memorable. - To Adapt Language for the Digital Era (Metaverse)
In digital and virtual worlds such as the metaverse, figures of speech enhance creative communication. Figurative language is crucial for building expressive and dynamic virtual interactions.
Understanding figures of speech and their variations helps us appreciate the richness of the Indonesian language, not only as a functional tool but also as a source of beauty. Figures of speech play a vital role in crafting meaningful literary works and fostering heartfelt communication. The digital age and the metaverse open up exciting new possibilities for exploring more creative and innovative linguistic styles.
References
- Nafinuddin, S. (2020, July). Figures of speech (comparisons, contradictions, repetitions, and associations) [Preprint]. OSF. https://doi.org/10.31219/osf.io/a8rwt
- Zaimar, O. K. S. (2002). Figures of Speech and Their Formation. Makara Human Behavior Studies in Asia, 6(2), 45. https://doi.org/10.7454/mssh.v6i2.38
- Keraf, G. (2004). Komposisi. Nusa Indah.
Author: Meilina Eka | Directorate of Information Technology Center