Meaning of the word figurative in English

What does figurative mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

figurative

US /ˈfɪɡ.jɚ.ə.tɪv/
UK /ˈfɪɡ.ər.ə.tɪv/
"figurative" picture

Adjective

1.

used in a way that is different from the usual or basic meaning of the words

Example:
The phrase 'to have a heart of gold' is figurative.
He was speaking in a figurative sense, not literally.
2.

representing people or objects in art in a way that looks like the real thing

Example:
The museum has a large collection of figurative paintings.
She prefers figurative art to abstract art.