Words / C1

MET-uh-f-uh/ˈmetəfə/

A metaphor describes one thing as another without like or as: a mountain of marking, the embargo is a lock. A simile uses like/as; an analogy (already in the dictionary) teaches a parallel; literal is the opposite. Do not let a metaphor replace a certificate, an n, or a named hazard.

Meaning

A figure of speech that describes one thing as another, without like or as.

Examples

• ““The embargo is a fire door” is a metaphor; the real door still needs a certificate.”
• “A simile says like. An analogy argues a mapping. Cliché is a dead metaphor. Mixed metaphor is two images colliding. Safety English stays literal in the audit.”

Good to know

An implied comparison (no like/as). Contrast: simile; analogy (already in the dictionary). Opposite: literal. Not a substitute for a spec.

Near in meaning

analogy

New