Learn what a transferred epithet is, how to identify it and how to use it correctly in sentences. A transferred epithet is a figure of speech that assigns the quality of one noun to another noun. Learn what a transferred epithet is, how to pronounce it, and how to use it in writing and speech. See 30+ examples of transferred epithets in literature and compare them with personification and metaphor. A transferred epithet is an adjective or phrase that is used to describe the main quality of a person or thing. A transferred epithet is a little-known but frequently employed figure of speech. Understanding Transferred Epithet (Hypallage) With Apt Examples Transferred epithet is a figure of speech that is taught early on in school, and is used by everyone in their daily lives. This Penlighten post attempts to explain this popular literary term.