figurative
[/ˈfɪɡ.jə.rə.tɪv/]
adjective
figurado
1. Used or interpreted with a meaning that is not literal; employing figures of speech such as metaphors, similes, or symbolism
When she said 'I'm drowning in work,' she was using figurative language.
Quando ela disse 'estou me afogando em trabalho', ela estava usando linguagem figurada.
2. Consisting of or forming human or animal figures; representational rather than abstract in art
The artist preferred figurative painting to abstract art.
O artista preferia a pintura figurativa à arte abstrata.
3. Intended to represent something in symbolic form rather than literally
The dove is a figurative symbol of peace.
A pomba é um símbolo figurado de paz.
In both Brazilian Portuguese and American English, 'figurative' is essential terminology in literary analysis, art criticism, and language education. The distinction between literal and figurative meaning is fundamental to understanding poetry, literature, and artistic expression. In Brazil, teachers emphasize 'linguagem figurada' when teaching Portuguese language arts.
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