metaphor
MEH-tuh-fuh
Metaphor (noun) means a figure of speech that describes something by calling it another thing, implying a comparison without using "like" or "as". Example: “Time is a thief" is a metaphor, not a literal statement.”
noun
1
A figure of speech that describes something by calling it another thing, implying a comparison without using "like" or "as".
""Time is a thief" is a metaphor, not a literal statement."
"The poem is full of metaphor, comparing grief to a heavy stone."
"Calling the city a jungle is a metaphor for how crowded and wild it feels."
How to use metaphor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribing one thing as if it were another thing, to make a point vividly (without saying "like" or "as").
Common mistake
Don’t confuse with a simile, which uses "like" or "as" ("brave as a lion") — a metaphor states the comparison directly ("he is a lion").
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a powerful metaphor
mixed metaphor
extended metaphor
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Word forms
- Plural
- metaphors
- Third person singular
- metaphors
- Past tense
- metaphored
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
"Time is a thief" is a _____, not a literal statement.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek metaphora, from metaphero ("to transfer, carry across"), from meta- + phero ("to carry").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “metaphor” mean?
The word “metaphor” means a figure of speech that describes something by calling it another thing, implying a comparison without using "like" or "as". In plain terms, describing one thing as if it were another thing, to make a point vividly (without saying "like" or "as").
How do you pronounce “metaphor”?
“Metaphor” is pronounced MEH-tuh-fuh (/ˈmɛt.ə.foɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “metaphor” in a sentence?
Here is “metaphor” used in a sentence: “"Time is a thief" is a metaphor, not a literal statement.”
What part of speech is “metaphor”?
“Metaphor” is a noun.
Where does the word “metaphor” come from?
The word “metaphor” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek metaphora, from metaphero ("to transfer, carry across"), from meta- + phero ("to carry").
Is “metaphor” a common word?
“Metaphor” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a metaphor and a simile?
A metaphor describes something by directly calling it another thing, while a simile makes the same kind of comparison using "like" or "as". For example, "time is a thief" is a metaphor, but "time flies like an arrow" is a simile.
What is an example of a metaphor in everyday speech?
Common everyday metaphors include "the world is your oyster" and "she has a heart of stone", both of which describe something by equating it with another thing rather than comparing it explicitly. These phrases are so familiar that speakers often use them without noticing the figurative comparison.
When should you use a metaphor instead of literal language?
Metaphors are useful when you want to make an idea more vivid, memorable, or emotionally resonant than a plain statement would allow. They work best in creative, persuasive, or descriptive writing, but can obscure meaning in technical or formal contexts where precision matters more than imagery.
