Figurative language is a type of communication that does not use a word’s strict or realistic meaning. It is usually used to add flavor to a writing or idea.
As a business owner or content creator, you know that captivating and engaging writing is essential to attract and retain your audience. Fortunately, there are several websites where you can easily hire skilled freelancers who specialize in figurative writing. In this article, we’ll explore the top 7 websites that connect you with talented writers in Africa, making it easier for you to find the perfect match for your writing needs.
What is figurative Writing?
Figurative writing is a type of writing that does not use a word’s strict or realistic meaning. Common in comparisons and exaggerations, figurative language is usually used to add creative flourish to written or spoken language or explain a complicated idea.
The use of figurative language in writing is any time you stretch the actual meaning of words for effect, whether to sound artistic, make a joke, or communicate more clearly and engagingly. Figurative language is a common technique in narrative writing, where the author strives to make emotional connections with the reader.
Writers create figurative language through figures of speech such as:
- Simile
- Metaphor
- Personification
- Literary devices that heighten imagery, such as alliteration, assonance, and onomatopoeia
What Is the Function of Figurative Writing?
Figurative language helps make writing and speeches more engaging and amusing. The reader or listener has to think about the words a little more as if deciphering a riddle, which means they’re actively participating.
Here are the several functions of figurative writing in literature and communication:
- Figurative writing puts foreign concepts into familiar terms that a reader or listener can easily grasp, or it might be by creating imagery that’s vivid and visceral.
- Some types of figurative language also have other uses unrelated to their role in creating imagery. For example, writers use alliteration, consonance, and assonance alongside rhyme to give words rhythm and musicality.
- Figurative language uses vivid and imaginative descriptions to create pictures in the reader’s mind. For example, metaphors, similes, and personifications make the text more evocative and engaging.
- Figurative writing encourages readers to think creatively and engage their imaginations. It invites them to explore different interpretations and meanings.
7 Best Websites to Hire Freelancers for Figurative Writing in Africa
1. WritersGig
On WritersGig you will find a list of vetted figurative writers with extensive experience in the use of figurative devices. Whether you need to write reports, white papers, or feature stories, rest assured that every word is crafted by a seasoned writer.
With WritersGig, you’ll experience seamless collaboration through our user-friendly platform. From initial briefings to revisions, our unique interface makes every process easy, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – achieving your informational objectives.
Related Post: How to Register as a Buyer or Writer on WritersGig
2. Truelancer
Truelancer is a curated freelance marketplace with thousands of top-rated figurative writers in Africa. On Truelancer you will find & hire writers who are professionals offering their expertise in various freelance informational writing Services to businesses globally.
3. Freelancer
Freelancer.com is a freelancing site in Nigeria that connects freelancers with employers. It provides a platform for both freelancers and employers to find each other and get what they need from each other.
Freelancer connects businesses and individuals with figurative writers who are well-rated; they also offer tools for employers like job boards, project management software, payment processing services, and more
READ ALSO: 7 Best Websites to Hire Freelancers for Gothic Writing in Africa
4. Upwork
On Upwork, you can find both beginners and advanced figurative writers for a wide range of writing projects. You can use filters to narrow down the candidates and find the ones that fit your niche and business needs.
You can search for writers based on their experience and how much they charge—including their fixed price and hourly rates.
5. PeoplePerHour
People per Hour is another freelance platform that you can use to find and work with figurative writers in many countries. Similar to WritersGig, you can post a project ad or browse its database to start hiring freelance writers. People per Hour will then charge fees to buyers and sellers for every project.
6. Guru
Guru is a great choice for small business owners who may have tighter budgets. Since it’s free to post job ads, it’s easy to get the attention of qualified figurative freelance writers without having to shell out big bucks. Again, you’ll need to be patient and use filters to narrow down the candidates from a large pool.
You can create onboarding documents right on the website. You can even use Guru to manage your content marketing process by sharing documents and creating tasks.
7. Terawork
Terawork connects businesses directly with vetted figurative writers. All of the services at Terawork are customized to each individual client. The platform works with only the highest quality writers to help you find the perfect writer, even if your niche is incredibly small.
On Terawork you can post your task or search and chat in real-time with your preferred talent
READ ALSO: Top 10 Tips on How to Hire Fiction Writers
How To Use Figurative Language As A Freelance Writer
Effective use of figurative language enhances any work. Here are four pointers to remember while using figurative language as a freelance writer:
1. Moderately use figurative language
When it comes to figurative language, less is more. Consider cooking with salt: a small amount can improve the taste and introduce delightful new flavors, but too much can destroy your dinner.
Figurative language can be distracting, so restrict its use. If you use metaphors, exaggeration, and other literary elements in every line, your reader will become exhausted. Save them for only the most important points in your story.
READ ALSO: 7 Best Websites To Hire Freelancers For Shortstory Writing In Africa
2. Always merge figurative language with humor
Figurative language not only enhances writing and helps explain complex topics, but it can also provide a humorous element. Comedians and authors frequently utilize it as punchlines and humorous analogies.
Hyperbole, particularly an understatement, is extremely effective for making jokes. Consider how Black Knight from Monty Python described losing a limb as “but a scratch.”
3. Be careful when using figurative language as dialogue
In creative writing, it’s tempting to include figurative language in character speech. While figurative language is ubiquitous in ordinary speech (e.g., “I could just die from embarrassment,” or “I’m starving!”), flowery sentences stand out in conversations, and not usually in a positive way.
Even if a writer is very proud of a certain use of the phrase, putting it in the mouth of a character may appear out of place or inauthentic. Excessive metaphorical language in dialogue might disrupt the reader’s immersion and remind them that they’re reading fiction. The exception is if talking extravagantly is a character feature, as Humbert Humbert from Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita, who is purposely pretentious.
Think about how people talk in real life and use that as a guideline. If you develop a brilliant figurative phrase that must be used, work it into the narration instead.
SEE ALSO: 7 Best Websites to Hire Freelancers for Manuscript Writing in Africa
4. Always ensure clarity
Figurative language can sometimes simplify a complex topic, while also complicating a simple one. If you wish to add some figurative spice to a sentence, be sure you don’t confuse the meaning.
Remember that metaphorical language can be distracting, making it difficult for the reader to understand what you’re attempting to communicate. Avoid using figurative language unless it’s necessary to convey meaning.
FAQs On Best Websites to Hire Freelancers for Figurative Writing
Check the freelancer’s previous work to gauge their writing style and quality.
Yes, many freelance writers are open to long-term collaborations. Clearly outline your needs and expectations, and discuss the possibility of a long-term arrangement during the hiring process.
WritersGig allows clients to provide specific feedback to clients giving the writer a chance to revise the work. You can also use the dispute button if the issue can’t be resolved directly with the writer.
Conclusion
The last time you read “butterflies in their stomach” in a novel, there weren’t actually butterflies inside of the character’s stomach—that would be cruel! That’s figurative language at work. It describes an uneasy feeling. The use of figurative language adds an expert touch and makes your writing interesting and a pleasure to read.
References
- masterclass.com – What Is Figurative Language? Learn About 10 Types of Figurative Language With Examples
- grammarly.com – Figurative Language Examples: How to Use These 5 Common Types
