What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
imagery
Example
The author's use of imagery painted a vivid picture of the sunset. [imagery: noun]
Example
The poem was full of rich imagery that appealed to the senses. [imagery: adjective]
metaphor
Example
Her heart was a fragile glass vase, easily shattered. [metaphor: noun]
Example
The writer used metaphors to convey the complexity of human emotions. [metaphors: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imagery is more commonly used than metaphor in everyday language. Imagery is versatile and can be employed in various contexts, while metaphor is more specific and is primarily used in poetry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between imagery and metaphor?
Both imagery and metaphor can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but metaphor is generally considered more formal due to its association with poetry and literary writing.
