Which term refers to a figure of speech involving an exaggerated statement for effect?

The term that refers to a figure of speech involving an exaggerated statement for effect is hyperbole. Hyperbole is often used in both everyday language and literature to create emphasis, provoke humor, or express strong feelings by exaggerating details beyond the bounds of reality. For example, saying "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" is a classic instance of hyperbole, as it underscores the speaker's extreme hunger in a dramatic way.

In contrast, each of the other options represents a different figure of speech. An oxymoron combines contradictory terms (like "deafening silence") to create a paradoxical effect, which is unlike the straight exaggeration of hyperbole. Personification attributes human characteristics to non-human entities, enriching descriptions but not employing exaggeration in the same manner. Lastly, alliteration involves the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close succession, a stylistic element rather than an exaggerated statement. Therefore, hyperbole accurately captures the essence of exaggerated expression.