Metaphors v Similes Overview and examples

Introduction Both metaphors and similes are what we call figurative language. This means that they are a creative use of the language to express something in a unique way. They are not literal. Make sure you understand what literal means. Metaphors and similes are both used for direct comparison to create imagery (an image in your mind).

Metaphors Metaphors are not literal, but the meaning is clearly understood: Love is a rose This is a metaphor because it directly compares “love” to “a rose” creating an image in the user’s mind. What does this metaphor mean? There is a double meaning that makes this a great metaphor.

Similes The big difference between similes and metaphors is that similes use like or as whereas metaphors do not: Metaphor- Love is a rose Simile- Love is like a rose or Love is as a rose

How many are there? It is natural to wonder how many similes and metaphors are there in English? Can you have a guess? The correct answer is that there is an infinite amount of metaphors and similes in English. Most of them haven’t even been invented yet! You may borrow famous metaphors in everyday life, but you are free to create as many new ones as you wish.

Try to be original “a packet of aspirins always at one's elbow” Anyone can borrow a famous metaphor or simile. But why not create your own? It will be more powerful and original. As George Orwell once said about writing, using meaningless or common metaphors or language was like, “a packet of aspirins always at one's elbow” What do you think this means? It is a great example of an original simile.