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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:
Comparison of two unlike things; says that one thing is the other.
Simile (must use "like" or "as")
Comparison of two unlike things; says that one is like the other.
