Final Answer:
The correct figure of speech in the given sentence is a simile, as it uses the comparison "busy as bees." This simile enhances the description by likening the busyness of the individuals to the industrious nature of bees.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the sentence "We were busy as bees while we prepared for the party," the figure of speech employed is a simile. A simile is a literary device that compares two different things using the words "like" or "as" to highlight a similarity between them. In this case, the comparison is made between the state of being busy and the industriousness of bees, emphasizing the level of activity and diligence in preparing for the party.
Similes add depth and vividness to language by drawing parallels that help readers or listeners better visualize or understand a situation. In this instance, the simile conveys a sense of industriousness and hard work, as bees are commonly associated with diligent and purposeful activity. The use of "as bees" creates a clear image of the bustling and efficient preparation for the party, enhancing the overall descriptive quality of the sentence.
In summary, the figure of speech identified in the given sentence is a simile, which enhances the expression by likening the busyness of the individuals to the diligent and purposeful nature of bees. This figurative language enriches the reader's or listener's experience by providing a more vivid and imaginative description of the scene.