Translation guide
The English word "figurative" refers to language that is not literal, often using metaphor, simile, or symbolism. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent that covers all uses. The best translation depends on whether you mean "figurative language" in general, a "figurative meaning" of a word, or describing something as "figurative" in a literary or rhetorical sense.
Referring to language that uses figures of speech, such as metaphors, similes, and symbolism, as opposed to literal language.
This is the most common and natural way to say "figurative expression" or "figurative language." It uses the word 比喩 (ひゆ, "figure of speech") plus 的 (てき, "-like") and 表現 (ひょうげん, "expression").
彼の詩は比喩的な表現に富んでいる。
His poetry is rich in figurative language.
The noun meaning "figure of speech" or "metaphor." Can be used to talk about figurative language in a more technical sense.
Many figures of speech are used in this passage.
A slightly more compact version of 比喩的な表現, often used in written or academic contexts.
Understanding figurative expressions is difficult.
Describing the non-literal, metaphorical meaning of a word or expression, as opposed to its literal meaning.
Describing visual art that represents recognizable objects or figures, as opposed to abstract art. Note: This is a different sense of "figurative" from the language-related meanings.
The standard term for "figurative" in art, meaning representational. Often used as 具象的な (ぐしょうてきな) or 具象絵画 (ぐしょうかいが, figurative painting).
He paints figurative pictures.
The noun form meaning "figurative art" or "representational art." Often contrasted with 抽象 (ちゅうしょう, abstract).
English often uses "figurative" as an adjective (e.g., "figurative language"), but Japanese does not have a single adjective that works the same way. Instead, use phrases like 比喩的な (ひゆてきな) or rephrase the sentence.
比喩 (ひゆ) is the general term for figure of speech. 隠喩 (いんゆ) specifically means metaphor (implied comparison), and 直喩 (ちょくゆ) means simile (explicit comparison using words like ような or みたいな). In most everyday contexts, 比喩 is sufficient.
As a figurative meaning of this word, there is the expression "hard-headed."
この展覧会は具象と抽象の両方を展示している。
This exhibition displays both figurative and abstract works.