What does "hyperbole" refer to in writing?

Hyperbole refers to an exaggerated statement that is not meant to be taken literally. It's a literary device often used for emphasis or to create a dramatic effect. When a writer employs hyperbole, they intend to highlight a point or evoke a reaction from the reader, using extravagant terms that stretch the truth.

For example, saying "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" is a clear instance of hyperbole, as the intention is to emphasize the speaker's hunger rather than to convey that they can actually consume an entire horse. In this way, hyperbole helps convey strong emotions or vivid imagery in writing, making the description more impactful.

The other options describe different literary techniques or styles. Subtle understatement is quite the opposite of hyperbole, as it involves downplaying the significance of something. An accurate representation of facts and a straightforward assertion based on evidence relate to more literal and factual styles of writing, which do not involve exaggeration. Thus, the choice that accurately defines hyperbole is the one describing it as an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally.