A comparison of the three basic types

Three Types of Kināyah: Referent, Attribute, and Attribution

TypeIntended resultExample
ReferentIdentify a person or thingHeart via “place of resentments”
AttributeConvey a qualityHeight via long sword strap
AttributionAffirm or deny quality of someone“Glory between his garments”

All three depend on indirect indication. Their distinction lies in what sort of meaning is finally inferred.