metaphor Definition
- 1a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable
- 2something used to represent something else
Using metaphor: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "metaphor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
'He has a heart of stone' is a metaphor.
Example
The world's a stage.' is a metaphorical phrase.
Example
Her voice was music to his ears.' is a metaphor.
Example
Life is a journey.' is a common metaphor.
metaphor Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for metaphor
- analogy
- symbolism
- comparison
- figure of speech
Phrases with metaphor
a combination of two or more incompatible metaphors, which produces a ridiculous effect
Example
His speech was a perfect example of a mixed metaphor, with phrases like 'grasping at straws in the dark'.
dead metaphor
a metaphor that has been used so often that its original impact has been lost
Example
The phrase 'foot of the mountain' is a dead metaphor because it has been used so frequently that it no longer creates a vivid image in the listener's mind.
a metaphor that is developed over several lines or throughout an entire poem or work of literature
Example
In Shakespeare's play 'As You Like It', the extended metaphor of the world as a stage is used throughout the play.
Origins of metaphor
from Greek 'metaphora', meaning 'transfer'
Summary: metaphor in Brief
A 'metaphor' [ˈmetəfər] is a figure of speech that applies a word or phrase to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable. It is often used to represent something else, such as 'Life is a journey.' or 'Her voice was music to his ears.' 'Metaphor' can be combined with other metaphors to create a mixed metaphor, or used repeatedly throughout a work to create an extended metaphor.
