Metaphor and Simile
Metaphor
A figure of speech in which an expression is used to refer to something that it does not literally denote in order to suggest a similarity
Simile
A simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison, showing similarities between two different things. Unlike ametaphor, a simile draws resemblance with the help of the words “like” or “as”. Therefore, it is a direct comparison.
Metaphor Vs Simile
Metaphors and similes both call attention to how two different things are similar, so people listening to you can apply the qualities of one thing to the other. The difference between metaphors and similes is that similes hit you over the head with the comparison by using explicit words such as “like” or “as,” -- When Jon Bon Jovi sings “My heart is like an open highway,” that's a simile because he used the word “like” to directly make the comparison. Metaphors, on the other hand, don't use direct comparison words. When Tom Cochrane sings “Life is a Highway,” that's a metaphor because there's no word such as "like" or "as."
Metaphors simply state a comparison. Similesuse the words “like” or “as” to compare things. Because they both make comparisons, all similes are metaphors, but not all metaphors are similes.
Here are some examples of similes and metaphors:
Life is like a box of chocolates. (Simile)
My life is an open book. (Metaphor)
That baby is as cute as a button! (Simile)
Baby, you’re a firework. (Metaphor)
Both similes and metaphors add color and depth to language. Share your favorite similes and metaphors in the comments!
