Microsoft Word - 5070.docx 4294 Copyright © 2025 The Author IDEAS is licensed under CC-BY-SA 4.0 License Issued by English study program of IAIN Palopo IDEAS Journal on Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) Volume 13, Number 2, December 2025 pp. 4294 - 4304 Figurative Language Analysis of “CITACINTA CARAKA” Novel by Erisca Febriani Suzzette Triana Berutu1, Tiara K. Pasaribu2, Rotua Elfrida Pangaribuan3 1,2,3 Universitas HKBP Nommenen, Medan Corresponding E-Mail: Suzettriana4@gmail.com Received: 2024-05-20 Accepted: 2025-08-17 DOI: 10.24256/ideas.v13i2.5070 Abstract This research aims to describe two main problems, namely: (1) What types of figurative language are found in the novel Cita Cinta Caraka? And (2) What meanings are in the Cita Cinta Caraka Novel? The data in this research is in the form of speech in the novel Cita Cinta Caraka by Erisca Febriani, which contains a figurative language style. This type of research is descriptive qualitative. This novel is analyzed using Keraf's theory. This novel contains 107 data. After examining the figurative language data in the novel Cita Cinta Caraka, it is known that there are 28 personifications, 10 hyperboles, 14 similes, 15 metaphors, 21 ironies, 6 litotes, 9 metonymies, 1 eponym, 2 antonyms, and 1 euphemism. Based on the analysis findings, personification-figurative language is the most dominant in the novel. The author uses personification to explain the meaning or message of each character and the author's intentions, as well as expressing the characters' emotions, making the story more exciting and entertaining, and being able to make readers more quickly understand the meaning of the words of each character in the novel. It can be concluded that figurative language has an important role in this novel. Therefore, the author uses many figurative sentences in this novel. The use of figurative language makes the novel more interesting to read and helps readers imagine the story and the characters based on the illustrations that the author has given in the story. Keywords: Semantic, Figurative Language, Meaning, Novel; Introduction Language can be used to express a person's feelings or emotions when expressing their ideas. As humans, language cannot be separated from communication and social interaction with the people they meet or those around them, which means of course they have to use language in life. For humans, language itself is very important because if there was no language, no one would understand what other people would say to the other person and vice versa, both IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 4295 verbally and in writing. In communicating with the language used, the language itself is related to symbols such as words, sentences, numbers, and so on which are also used in linguistics. Linguistics is the science that studies language, where linguistics itself is a language ability that exists in every human being which is innate or present from birth. Linguistics also studies various aspects of language, such as form, meaning, and context, and also studies various languages throughout the world, both those that are still used and those that have become extinct. Linguistics is also a branch of linguistics that is commonly known as semantics. Semantics is part of the branch of linguistics that studies meaning, which includes types, division, formation, and change of meaning. It can be concluded that semantic meaning is a branch of linguistics that studies the meaning contained in a language, code, or other type of representation. However, in a linguistic context, the sign or symbol in question concerns code or language, especially words or other small grammatical units that have meaning. Thus, semantics can also be defined as a science that studies the relationship and impact of symbols and signs—such as words—on speakers and users (humans), as well as how these symbols and signs convey meaning. The meanings contained in semantics can also be found in figurative language. Figurative language often refers to language that is lyrical and flowery and uses imagery to create a unique effect. Figurative language is often used in poetry but is also often found in prose and nonfiction works such as novels. Figurative language can enhance any literary work and is the simplest approach for writers to convey ideas because of its unusual form and beautiful language. Figurative language is also a type of communication in which words or expressions are used that generally have a meaning different from that given, to be able to represent what could be a real or imagined similarity. A form of communication that is widely used in everyday speech through phrases and various expressions. In other words, the writer tries to create an image in the reader's mind, in one way or another, that the writer examines in a novel. Novels contain deep conflicts that can change the fate of the characters and reveal them in subtle ways. The stories in novels are works of imagination that discuss the life problems of a person or various characters. Novels need to contain internal and external components that are interconnected because both influence the existence of literary works. Characterization, storyline, background, location, point of view, and topic are some of these components. The plot or storyline of a novel develops events or occurrences through the use of plot structures such as the plot of fortune, the plot of characterization, and the plot of thought. The types of storylines include touching, poignant, tragic, punishment, cynical, sentimental, admiration, maturity, improvement, test, education, secret revelation, full of affection, and disappointment. All of these components are considered important in writing a novel. Suzzette Triana Berutu, Tiara K. Pasaribu, Rotua Elfrida Pangaribuan Figurative Language Analysis of “CITACINTA CARAKA” Novel by Erisca Febriani 4296 The writer chose figurative language for this research because, firstly, figurative language is unique language or words; in explaining something, the meaning is to use beautiful words, and each word or sentence contains meaning in conveying a different message by conveying the message differently. Directly, both verbally and non-verbally. Then, apart from being able to expand knowledge, figurative language is also able to make people think creatively. The writer is also interested in researching figurative language to find out more about how to use figurative language properly and correctly. Can enrich new vocabulary, enrich the reader's experience of the writer, help the writer explore deeper meaning, and enrich the research results. The final reason the author chose this topic is because she likes reading novels, whether about friendship, family, or even romantic novels. Therefore, in this study, the writer chose the figurative language of the novel “Cita Cinta Caraka” by Erisca Febriani. The writer chose this novel because there are a lot of figurative expressions contained in it that are sometimes still difficult to understand for readers who are interested in knowing the meaning of the figurative expressions contained in the novel. This is because, in a novel, several interesting stories give the reader an understanding of the meaning of the novel, a new perspective on how to live various aspects of social life and people's experiences and talk about friend zones, friendship, family, and mental health issues. The story in this novel is also not monotonous so when the writer read this novel, she will not get bored quickly. Based on the explanations above, the writer is interested in conducting a study about “Figurative Language Analysis of Cita Cinta Caraka by Erisca Febriani". Method This study primarily used descriptive qualitative methods because the research relates to, Denzin et al (2018: 43) “claim that qualitative research involves interpretive and naturalistic approaches: “This means that qualitative researchers study things in their natural setting, trying to understand, or to interpret phenomena in their natural setting. Concerning the meaning people give to it.” The data in this study was taken from Erisca Febriani's Novel “Cita Cinta Caraka”, which contains messages that the writer wants to convey to readers using figurative language in the words or sentences conveyed, which has a meaning about how to deal with problems that arise, how to always be grateful in any situation, and so on. The data was taken from December 2023 to January 2024. The writer used data sources taken from novels, as well as sources of figurative language theory in books, internet sources journals, and other data that can support this research. The writer collected and take various steps in gathering the data to be studied in this chapter. The data is analyzed in the form of figurative words and sentences in the “Cita Cinta Caraka” novel. The following are some of the steps taken by the writer: Decided the IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 4297 novel; Read the novel; Selected the figurative language from the novel. The technique of analyzed the data conducted by getting information which is needed to support the goals of study to find out the types Figurative Language and the most dominant used in “Cita Cinta Caraka” novel by Erisca Febriani. Findings and Discussion Findings After analyzing the collected data from the “Cita Cinta Caraka” novel, the writer found 107 sentences that contained figurative language from chapters 3- 215. These figurative languages were show in the percentage based on Keraf’s theory about types of figurative language shown in the following table. Table 1. The Percentage of Data Analysis No Types Amount Percentage 1. Hyperbole 10 9,34% 2. Personification 28 26,16% 3. Simile 14 13,08% 4. Metaphor 15 14,01% 5. Irony 21 19,62% 6. Litotes 6 5,60% 7. Metonymy 9 8,41% 8. Eponymous 1 0,93% 9. Antonomasia 2 1,86% 10. Euphemism 1 0,93% Total 107 100% Types of Figurative Language Found of “Cita Cinta Caraka” Novel Based on the data analysis, it is found that there are 10 types figurative language which consist of hyperbole, simile, personification, litotes, metaphor, euphemism, antonomasia, metonymy, eponymous, irony. The Meaning of Figurative Language Found of “Cita Cinta Caraka Novel 1. Hyperbole Hyperbole is a type of comparative figure of speech that contains statements by exaggerating something from what it is. This figure of speech can also be interpreted as an expression or figure of speech that is exaggerated to create a dramatic effect. Data (1): Besar banget tu mulut, bas. Hampir gue keisep. (That's a big mouth, Bass. I almost slipped. Explanation: This sentence tells us that Bass was yawning because he had just woken up and still felt sleepy. Suzzette Triana Berutu, Tiara K. Pasaribu, Rotua Elfrida Pangaribuan Figurative Language Analysis of “CITACINTA CARAKA” Novel by Erisca Febriani 4298 2. Personification Personification is a language style that compares non-living things or objects as if they have characteristics like living creatures or humans. This style of language is used to express certain intentions in writing, literary works, and speech to give human characteristics to objects in real life that do not have such characteristics. Data (11): Peluk mimpi kamu dengan tangan kamu ini. (Embrace your dreams with your hands). Explanation: Never give up on your dreams and always be active in pursuing the dreams you want to achieve, no matter how difficult they are. 3. Simile A simile figure of speech is a connection that compares two things that are essentially different but which are then considered to have almost the same meaning. This figure of speech uses words like and so on. Data (41): Saran dari Kak Yuri seperti amunisi mengisi tangki semangat Anindita yang semula sudah terkuras habis. (Kak Yuri's advice was like ammunition to fill Anindita's spirit tank, which had previously been drained). Explanation: The sentence here can be interpreted as meaning that the words conveyed by Sis Yuri were an encouragement to Anindita when she felt weak. 4. Metaphor A metaphor is a figure of speech that provides an expression of analogical comparison. The use of metaphorical figures of speech is characterized by the use of words that are not actual words. Data (54): Dulu dia dan ibunya selalu berdamai dengan hinaan dan caci maki. (In the past, she and her mother always made peace with insults and verbal abuse). Explanation: The sentence here means that Anindita and her mother never retaliate against every evil act that other people have done to them, but they always forgive every bad act and word that has been said by other people towards them. 5. Irony Irony is a figure of speech that expresses a meaning that is contradictory to the actual meaning, for example, by expressing a meaning that is opposite to the actual meaning and a discrepancy between the atmosphere presented and the underlying reality. Data (71): Daripada sibuk meluruskan rambut, kenapa tidak meluruskan hati? (Instead, you are busy straightening your hair, so why not straighten your heart?) IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 4299 Explanation: The sentence here means that to remind other people not to care too much about physical beauty, there must be a balance to check whether people's hearts or lives are good or not. 6. Litotes Litote's figure of speech is a language style that minimizes reality intending to be humble and gentle. Data (89): Urban legend yang terkenal di Harnus, kuntilanak yang suka godain anak-anak Harnus. (A famous urban legend in Harnus is the kuntilanak, who likes to tease Harnus' children). Explanation: The word urban legend can be interpreted as a myth or legend that is circulating and believed by the majority of society at large, which is usually in the form of a mystery story. 7. Metonymy A metonymy is a figure of speech that uses words to represent something other than the meaning of the original word based on the close relationship between the two. Therefore, metonymy cannot only be done using brands or labels! Data (95): Caraka masuk ke mobil Sedan Civic terbaru miliknya, lalu bergegas melaju pergi. (Caraka got into his newest Civic Sedan, then hurried away). Explanation: The word Civic sedan here means that the Civic sedan is a Honda car whose size is not as large as cars in general, where the Honda Civic is usually used by young people because it has a noisy exhaust when driven on the street. 8. Eponymous An eponymous figure of speech is a language style that uses names or figures that are common or well-known in society to express traits related to that figure. Data (104): Lalu dia pun menghilang tanpa jawaban, seperti sosok bidadari fatamorgana. (Then he disappeared without an answer, like a mirage angel). Explanation: The word here means that a mirage angel is a beautiful fairy figure full of light whose form can change and is impossible to reach. 9. Antonomasia An antonomasia figure of speech is a figure of speech that describes a person or thing based on their unique characteristics, character, or physical appearance. Data (105): Kalian ini sedih karena nggak ada aku, atau karena kehilangan badut di kampung? (Are you sad because I'm not there, or because you lost the clown in the village?) Explanation: The word clown here can be interpreted to mean that a clown is a character who usually entertains people and can be found in amusement parks or on the side of the street. Suzzette Triana Berutu, Tiara K. Pasaribu, Rotua Elfrida Pangaribuan Figurative Language Analysis of “CITACINTA CARAKA” Novel by Erisca Febriani 4300 10. Euphemism A euphemistic figure of speech is a more subtle expression as a substitute for an expression that is felt to be rude, is considered detrimental, or that is unpleasant. Euphemism is related to the positive connotation of a word. Data (107): Adik saya, Bu, aslinya masih 10 tahun. Badannya aja yang besar, kelakarnya. (My little sister, Aunty, is 10 years old. It's just her body that's big, he joked). Explanation: The sentence here means that she has a large body, or a body that is usually possessed by adults; however, his behavior is like that of a child. Personification is the dominant type in the novel "Cita Cinta Caraka" by Erisca Febriani because, in this novel, the author uses personification to compare living objects. In this study, the writer found 107 data from the novel that had been transcribed by the writer first. The types of figurative language in data: hyperbole 10, personification 28, simile 14, metaphor 16, irony 21, litotes 6, metonymy 9, eponymous 1, antonomasia 2, euphemism 1. Discussion From the result of the data analysis, the writer concluded that by using Keraf’s theory. The writer found out that the most dominant type of figurative language used in “Cita Cinta Caraka” a novel by Erisca Febriani is personification. In this study which other studies have carried out, several similarities and differences were found out in this study. Therefore, the writer decided to conduct this research because there is no study on the same topic. So that, the writer can provide examples or references for future writers. Similarly, the next writer can conduct further research on the types of language. The use of figurative language in “Cita Cinta Caraka” novel was found by boldly classifying them. Previously, the writer transcribed and bolded the figurative language and found there were 107 data. Based on these findings, the writer found several similarities and differences between the results of previous studies and the results of studies conducted by the current writer. The results of previous research from Shafira et al (2023). The results of this research show that personification is more dominant with the number 28. Meanwhile, in their research, the more dominant result was simile, with a total of 27. This is because the scope of analysis is different; in this study, they analyzed 10 types of figurative language, whereas in their research, they only analyzed 4 types of figurative language. The result of this research also has differences from Lismalinda et al (2020). The results of this research are the most dominant data, namely personification, with a total of 28 data. Meanwhile, in their research, the data that was more dominant was the same, namely personification; however, the amount of data was different is 35.5%. This is due to the use of different theories. As a result of this research, the author used 10 types of figurative language and IDEAS, Vol. 13, No. 2, December 2025 ISSN 2338-4778 (Print) ISSN 2548-4192 (Online) 4301 found that the most dominant data was personification, with a total of 28 data points. Meanwhile, Priyono et al (2022)., in their research, they used six figurative languages and the same dominant data, namely similes, for a total of 51 data points. This is due to the use of different theories and different methods of analysis. Then, (Pasaribu (2022) research has differences with this research. In this study, researchers used 10 types of figurative language and found the most dominant data, namely personification, with a total of 28 data points. Meanwhile, in their research, they used seven figurative languages and the most dominant data, namely hyperbole with 14 data points. This is due to the analysis of different objects and the use of different theories. The results of this study show that the analysis of figurative language in the novel, according to Keraf 's theory, found that personification was more dominant compared to previous research. This is because the author of the novel wants to convey a meaning and message through comparisons with the characters of living and non-living creatures so that readers will more easily understand what message the author wants to convey. These differences are caused by differences in research objects, different data variations, different most dominant data and the use of different theories. Apart from that, there is a difference in the scope of the analysis where this research only analyzes 10 types of figurative language that are commonly known to readers but are described extensively, whereas in previous research, the writer only focused on several types of figurative language. This is what is new in this study. Conclusion As a last step, the writer can conclude and maked suggestions that should prove useful to others. After analyzing the types of figurative language in the “Cita Cinta Caraka” novel the writer would like to conclude: 1. The types of figurative language analysis of “Cita Cinta Caraka” novel by Erisca Febriani is hyperbole, simile, litotes, personification, irony, metaphor, eponymous, antonomasia, euphemism, metonymy. 2. The meaning of the figurative language found in “Cita Cinta Caraka” Novel by Erisca Febriani is, the author uses figurative language in writing his novel to convey messages and meanings as well as new perspectives on how to live various aspects of social life and community experiences, as well as talking about friend zones, friendships, family, and mental or health problems written through the stories in the novel. so that readers, especially writers, can easily understand the contents of the message in the novel. 3. 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