What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
metonymical
Example
The White House announced a new policy. [metonymical: using the name of the building to refer to the US government]
Example
The pen is mightier than the sword. [metonymical: using 'pen' to represent writing and 'sword' to represent violence]
figurative
Example
She has a heart of gold. [figurative: using 'heart of gold' to describe someone's kind and generous nature]
Example
The sun smiled down on us. [figurative: using 'sun' to represent happiness and warmth]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Figurative is more commonly used than metonymical in everyday language and literature. Metonymical is more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between metonymical and figurative?
Metonymical language is often associated with a formal or technical tone, while figurative language can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
