53. The sentence in lines 6-8 ("It follows aeroplanes") contains which figure of speech?
Answer: C
Simile
The sentence in lines 6-8 uses a simile to compare the struggle against the abuse of language to preferring candles to electric light or hansom cabs to aeroplanes, suggesting that such preferences are outdated and impractical.
A) Personification
Personification attributes human qualities to non-human entities, which is not applicable in this context. The sentence does not give human characteristics to any objects or concepts; instead, it makes a comparison that emphasizes a viewpoint.
B) Alliteration
Alliteration involves the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close proximity. The sentence does not contain a noticeable pattern of alliterative sounds, making this option incorrect.
C) Simile
This option accurately describes the figure of speech used in the sentence. A simile explicitly compares two different things using "like" or "as," which is evident in the comparison made between outdated preferences and the struggle with language.
D) Hyperbole
Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally. The sentence does not contain any exaggerated claims but rather makes a straightforward comparison, ruling this option out.
E) Onomatopoeia
Onomatopoeia refers to words that phonetically imitate the sounds they describe. There is no use of sound-imitating words in the sentence, making this option irrelevant.
Conclusion
The correct answer, simile, effectively captures the comparative nature of the sentence, illustrating how outdated practices are likened to the struggle against language abuse. All other options fail to accurately represent the figure of speech present in the text, highlighting the importance of understanding literary devices in analyzing language.