What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
analogy
Example
The relationship between a teacher and student is like that of a gardener and a plant. [analogy: noun]
Example
To understand how the heart works, we can use the analogy of a pump. [analogy: noun]
likeness
Example
There is a likeness between the two paintings, as they both depict nature scenes. [likeness: noun]
Example
The two brothers have a strong likeness in appearance. [likeness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Likeness is more commonly used than analogy in everyday language. Likeness is a simpler comparison between two things based on their shared characteristics, while analogy is more complex and often used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between analogy and likeness?
Analogy is typically associated with a more formal tone, while likeness is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
