What is hyperbole?

• A. A deliberate exaggeration for emphasis.
• B. Exaggeration for emphasis; it reinforces a point or provokes humor.
• C. A substitution of a related concept for a name.
• D. The use of a contradiction to reveal a truth.

Answer: (B)

Hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration used for emphasis. Writers use it to push something beyond its literal truth, making it seem much more dramatic than it really is. This helps reinforce a point or spark humor, making the idea more memorable or impactful. Other options describe different figures of speech—substituting a related concept for a name refers to metonymy or synecdoche, while using a contradiction to reveal a truth points to irony or paradox.