The use of sensory details to create vivid images in writing is called what?

• A. Symbolism
• B. Tone
• C. Imagery
• D. Metaphor

Answer: (C)

Imagery is the use of sensory details to create vivid images in writing. When a writer calls on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, or touch, it helps you picture the scene more clearly and feel like you’re really there. For example, describing a scene with a “bright red sunset,” the “sharp tang of salt in the air,” and the “rough grain of old wood under your fingers” lets you imagine the moment as if you were actually experiencing it. That focus on sensory experience is exactly what imagery does, so it’s the best fit for this description.

Symbolism uses objects to stand for ideas beyond their literal meaning, tone is the writer’s attitude toward the subject, and a metaphor makes a direct comparison between two unlike things. Each of those serves a different effect, whereas imagery specifically builds a vivid scene through sensory detail.