Literal language refers to words that mean exactly what they say, without any embellishments or interpretations. It straightforwardly conveys the real or original meaning without any metaphors, similes, or exaggerations. For example, if someone says, "It's raining outside," they mean that there is actual rain falling.
Figurative language, on the other hand, uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. It often employs metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole, and other rhetorical devices to create vivid imagery or convey complex ideas. An example of figurative language is: "He has a heart of stone." This suggests that the person is emotionally cold or unfeeling, rather than literally having a heart made of stone.