Which literary device involves giving human traits to nonhuman things?

• A. Personification
• B. Irony
• C. Paradox
• D. Juxtaposition

Answer: (A)

Personification is giving human traits to nonhuman things, like animals, objects, or ideas. This device lets writers animate the world and connect readers emotionally by presenting inanimate things as if they can think, feel, or act like people. For example, “The wind whispered through the trees” treats the wind as if it can speak, which creates mood and imagery.

Irony, paradox, and juxtaposition operate differently. Irony involves a contrast between what is said or expected and what actually happens. A paradox presents a statement that seems self-contradictory but reveals a truth upon reflection. Juxtaposition places two elements side by side to highlight their differences or similarities. The best fit for the idea of giving human qualities to nonhuman things is personification.