What does it mean when text contains figurative language?

When text contains figurative language, it includes creative expressions that extend beyond the literal meanings of words. Figurative language employs various devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, and hyperbole to create vivid imagery and convey complex ideas or emotions. For example, saying "the world is your oyster" doesn't mean that the world is literally an oyster but rather suggests that opportunities are abundant and available to the listener. This use of creative expression engages the reader's imagination and can evoke deeper understanding or emotional responses to the text. Through figurative language, writers can communicate layers of meaning that enhance the overall experience of the text, making it more impactful and relatable.