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Questions

1. a) Define hyperbole and understatement.
b) Which word do you think best describes this cartoon?


Scroll down to the bottom of the page for the answers.

Cartoon by Gary Varvel

Answers

1. a)

  • hyperbole – an exaggeration of ideas for the sake of emphasis. Hyperbole, as used by cartoonists, is the deliberate, extreme, and often humorous exaggeration of a character’s physical traits, actions, or situations to make a specific point, heighten comedic effect, or evoke a strong emotional response.
  • understatement –In cartooning, understatement is a satirical technique where a situation, character, or event is deliberately portrayed as less significant, intense, or dramatic than it actually is. It is used to create humor, highlight absurdity, or deliver social commentary by creating a stark, ironic contrast between the mild description (or illustration) and the overwhelming reality.
    Understatement is when a cartoonist presents a situation or thing as if it is less important or serious than it is in reality.

b) Answer varies.