Similes and Metaphors

Figures of Speech

In this lesson, we are going to learn about some different figures of speech and expressions in the English language.

A figure of speech is when we use words creatively-in a way that is a little different from what the words mean normally.

Expressions like metaphors and similes are used to add rhetorical force to the spoken or written language.

A metaphor compares words in a sentence. It says that one thing is another different thing.

A simile also compares one thing to another, but it uses the words "like" or "as."

Remember that both metaphors and similes compare things. The difference between them is that a metaphor says that one thing is another, while a simile says that one thing is like another.

Also, a metaphor never uses words - like or as to compare things.

Not Always a Simile or Metaphor Is Used to Compare Things

We don't always use a metaphor or simile to compare things.

For example, these are not metaphors or similes:

When you see metaphors and similes, you should do two things: