What is difference between simile and metaphor
by Yogi P - October 19, 2023
Understanding the Difference between Simile and Metaphor
Confusion often arises when trying to remember the differences between two commonly used literary terms – simile and metaphor. In this article, we’ll explore the meanings and usages of both words, providing examples to illustrate their proper use in sentences.
Simile
A simile is a figure of speech used to make a comparison between two different objects, usually using words such as ‘like,’ ‘as,’ or ‘similar to.’ A simile is usually used to make a point vividly and clearly.
For example – ‘Seeing the destruction left by the tornado was like looking at a painting of chaos.’
Metaphor
A metaphor is a comparison between two or more objects that implies a similarity between them. It does not use words like ‘like’ or ‘as.’ For example, ‘The destruction left by the tornado was a canvas of chaos.’
Table Summarising the difference between simile and metaphor:
| Word | Simile | Metaphor |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Compares two objects using ‘like’ or ‘as.’ | Comparison between two objects without using ‘like’ or ‘as.’ |
| Usage | Make a vivid comparison between two objects | Imply similarity between two objects |
| Examples | ‘He was like a rock in the storm.’ | ‘He was a rock in the storm.’ |
Comparing Meanings and Usages of Simile and Metaphor:
On the surface, similes and metaphors are used similarly, and it can be hard to remember the subtle differences in their applications. Similes compare two objects explicitly, while metaphors imply an indirect comparison.
With similes, the two items being compared are identified using the conjunctions ‘like’ or ‘as.’ Metaphors rarely use these words and instead imply a comparison between the two objects.
Examples of difference between simile and metaphor:
To gain a better understanding of these words, let’s look at some example sentences:
- Simile: ‘The winter sky was like a tapestry of stars.’
- Metaphor: ‘The winter sky was a tapestry of stars.’
- Simile: ‘He was as stubborn as a mule.’
- Metaphor: ‘He was a mule.’
Quick Overview of differences between simile and metaphor
| Aspect | Simile | Metaphor |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A figure of speech that directly compares two different things using “like” or “as.” | A figure of speech that describes one thing as if it were something else without using “like” or “as.” |
| Comparison | Explicit comparison with “like” or “as” | Implicit or direct comparison without “like” or “as” |
| Example | She’s as busy as a bee. | Time is money. |
| Structure | Uses “like” or “as” to make the comparison clear | Makes the comparison directly without “like” or “as” |
| Usage | Often used for clarity or vivid descriptions | Used for creative and imaginative expressions |
| Clarity | More explicit and easy to understand | Can be more subtle and open to interpretation |
| Common Types | Similes are often used in everyday language and literature | Metaphors are widely used in literature, poetry, and creative writing |
| Visual | Provides a clearer visual image | Invites readers to make connections and explore associations |
Activity to Enhance Understanding:
To practice the concept of similes and metaphors, readers can explore various sources from which they can draw inspiration. Reading literature or analyzing current news articles are excellent ways to practice recognizing and applying these literary devices.
Conclusion:
Similes and metaphors are powerful literary tools used to create vivid imagery or make a comparison. While similes are typically used to explicitly compare two objects using words like ‘like’ or ‘as,’ metaphors are used to imply a comparison without the use of these words.
To master these words, it’s important to study and analyze the correct usages of each phrase.
