What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
simile
Example
Her eyes sparkled like diamonds in the sunlight. [simile: noun]
Example
He ran as fast as a cheetah chasing its prey. [as: comparative word]
metaphor
Example
Life is a journey with many twists and turns. [metaphor: noun]
Example
The world is a stage and we are all actors. [metaphor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Simile is more commonly used than metaphor in everyday language. Simile is more straightforward and easier to understand, making it more accessible for general communication.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between simile and metaphor?
Both simile and metaphor are often used in literature, poetry, and creative writing, but metaphor is generally considered more formal and sophisticated due to its complexity and ability to convey abstract ideas or emotions.
