Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

How does 'literal' meaning differ from 'figurative' meaning?

1. Literal implies creativity, while figurative is straightforward

2. Literal refers to dictionary definitions, while figurative suggests symbolic interpretations

3. Literal can be complex while figurative is always simple

4. There is no difference, both are interchangeable

The correct answer is: Literal refers to dictionary definitions, while figurative suggests symbolic interpretations

The distinction between 'literal' and 'figurative' meaning is best captured by the concept of dictionary definitions versus symbolic interpretations. When something is described as having a literal meaning, it refers to the exact, denotative definition of a word or phrase as you would find in a dictionary. This is the straightforward interpretation, where words signify their actual, primary meanings without added connotations. On the other hand, figurative meaning involves a layer of interpretation that goes beyond the literal definition. It encompasses metaphor, simile, symbolism, and other rhetorical devices that convey complex ideas or emotions by relating them to something else that is not literally true. This suggests an imaginative or thematic depth that allows for multiple interpretations, enriching the language used. This understanding is crucial in literature and communication, where authors often employ figurative language to evoke feelings, create imagery, or convey themes that would be flat through a purely literal approach. The contrast between these two meanings enhances the reader's ability to engage with texts on various levels, appreciating both their surface and deeper meanings.