Significance of Figures of speech
Figures of speech encompass a range of figurative and metaphorical expressions used across various philosophical and literary traditions, including Jainism, Tibetan Buddhism, and poetry. These expressions convey deeper meanings through non-literal language, enhancing emotional impact and thematic depth. In contexts like Ayurvedic texts or the Natyashastra, figures of speech serve to illustrate complex ideas and evoke imagery, while in works like Kavya and Kavyashastra, they employ rhetorical devices to deliver imaginative and expressive language. Overall, figures of speech play a critical role in enriching the understanding of language and concepts in various disciplines.
Synonyms: Figurative language, Tropes, Personification
In Dutch: Stijlfiguren; In Finnish: Puheen hahmot; In Spanish: Figuras ret贸ricas; In German: Redewendungen; In Finnish: Puhehahmot; In Swedish: Talfigurer; In Malay: Tokoh ucapan; In French: Figures de style
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Figures of speech'
In Buddhism, Figures of speech encompass metaphorical expressions that illustrate complex philosophical concepts, convey deeper truths, represent causal relationships, and employ collective terms, enhancing understanding through non-literal language and artistic emphasis.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Expressions that convey meanings in a non-literal way, often used to add emphasis or artistic flair.[1] (2) Expressions that convey meaning through metaphorical language, illustrating deeper truths beyond literal interpretations.[2] (3) Referencing metaphorical expressions, such as 鈥榯he Weaver鈥� in the analogy, illustrating complex philosophical ideas.[3] (4) Expressions that are not meant to be taken literally; in this case, 'Smoke' and 'Fire' serve as metaphors for understanding causal relationships.[4] (5) Expressions like 'forest' used to illustrate how collective terms are applied to entities, reflecting on the brevity of language in relation to the chain.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Figures of speech'
In Hinduism, Figures of speech encompass creative language techniques, such as metaphors and similes, enhancing poetic expression and deeper philosophical meanings, vital for interpreting texts and evoking emotional responses through literary devices.
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Metaphorical expressions used to convey complex transformations and relationships between elements (like fire, water, and earth) to explain philosophical concepts.[6] (2) Metaphorical expressions used in reference to Brahman, like having joy for its head.[7]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The understanding that various effects consist of mere names and are not the ultimate reality, similar to the illusions of clay.[8]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Figures of speech are used to imagine the Anandamaya's components, facilitating contemplation and comprehension of complex spiritual concepts.[9]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) Expressions used to convey meanings that are not literally true, often employed in literature and rhetoric.[10]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Rhetorical devices used to convey meanings, especially in the discussion of the relationship between the buddhi and the individual soul.[11]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) Various rhetorical devices utilized in literature and poetry to enhance expression and convey deeper meanings.[12] (2) The earliest discussions on literary devices presented in the Natyashastra, focusing on the theory of Sentiments.[13]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Linguistic devices that embellish language but are mentioned to differentiate from the idea of upacarasatta, stating that not all conveyance of meaning through words are figurative.[14] (2) Linguistic expressions that use metaphors or similes to convey meaning in a figurative manner.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Expressions used in the context of interpreting Vedic rituals, where actions are described in metaphorical terms to convey deeper meanings.[16] (2) Implied meanings or nativities within the language of Vedic texts that may guide interpretation and understanding.[17]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Language used in a non-literal way to convey complex meanings or evoke imagery.[18] (2) Expressions used in the scripture that may invoke deeper meanings or allegories.[19]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Important metaphors and analogies used to illustrate spiritual concepts and the nature of the mind and desires.[20]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Metaphorical language used to describe therapeutic processes and their effects in a vivid manner.[21]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) Includes metaphorical phrases which provide deeper meanings and concepts within the narrative.[22]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) Narayana's commentary does not engage with figures of speech, focusing instead on interpretation.[23]
Jain concept of 'Figures of speech'
In Jainism, Figures of speech denote metaphorical expressions that illustrate knowledge's multifaceted nature, emphasizing its interpretation through varied contexts and dimensions, thus enriching understanding and insight.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Refers to figurative or metaphorical expressions in the description of knowledge, demonstrating how knowledge can be viewed through different contexts or dimensions.[24]
The concept of Figures of speech in local and regional sources
Figures of speech, or 'alankaras', encompass various rhetorical devices that enhance artistic expression in poetry, such as similes, metaphors, and irony, elevating communication and imagery to convey deeper meanings and evoke emotions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Stylistic devices like euphemisms, puns, and witticisms employed in literature to enhance poetic expression.[25] (2) Techniques employed by poets to enhance expression and imagery within a composition, considered to flow naturally from imaginative thought.[26] (3) Literary devices used to convey meaning or evoke emotions, particularly prevalent in the author's style.[27] (4) Rhetorical devices that enhance the effectiveness and expressiveness of communication, particularly in the context of Dr. Aiyengar's speeches.[28] (5) Literary devices used in poetry, which Dr. Reddi believed should not overshadow the real essence of the poet's spirit.[29]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) A study or explanation of the rhetorical devices and tropes found within Holy Scriptures, enhancing understanding of its literary quality.[30]