figurative

/ˈfɪɡjərətɪv/
adjective
  1. Using words or expressions in a non-literal way; metaphorical.
    • When she said her backpack weighed a ton, she was speaking figuratively.
    • The poet used figurative language to describe the sunset as a golden ocean.
    • Figurative expressions like 'break a leg' can confuse new language learners.
  2. Representing forms that are recognizable from the real world, as opposed to abstract; depicting people, objects, or scenes.
    • Figurative art often tells a story through realistic images.
    • The museum's collection includes both abstract and figurative paintings.
    • She prefers figurative sculpture that shows the human form clearly.