Figurative language

Similes A simile compares two very different things that have at least one quality in common. In written language they serve to add increase interest in what is being written. Example: After long exposure to the sun, her skin looked like an old leather coat.

Simile reminders The image in the simile must be familiar. We understand a simile because we know the material that is being discussed. The difference between the subject and the image should be substantial. (keep in mind that they still need to have some point in common)

Analogy An analogy like a simile compares two different things by identifying points of similarity. Differences between an analogy and a simile 1.An analogy usually identifies several points of similarity, rather than just the two created in a simile.

2. An analogy is created for the purpose of giving conceptual clarity, explaining an unfamiliar idea by comparing it to a familiar one. 3. An analogy is a practical device used to help the reader’s thought process, therefore it usually is chosen for its close similarity to the subject, so that the qualities in common offer helpful illumination of the subject. Similes more often strive for effect through the use of images very different from subjects.

Analogy example In order to solve a problem, you first have to know what the problem really is, in the same way that you can’t untie a knot until you have found the knot. Aristotle

Metaphor A metaphor also compares two things. The significant difference is that the metaphor identifies the subject with the image: in other words, it does not use the word like. Simile: A good book is like a friend. Metaphor: A good book is a friend.

Catachresis This is a striking, extreme, implied metaphor that makes use of a grammatical misconstruction. I will speak daggers to her, but use none. Hamlet (Here young Hamlet substitutes daggers for the concept of angry words)