Metaphors and similes compare two things.
First, let’s look at similes.
Similes directly compare two things because the two things share a common feature. We use the words “as” or “like” to compare two things.
- Her eyes are like diamonds.
- She is as fast as a cheetah.
- He is like an animal when he fights.
- They are as close as brothers.
- It is as cold as ice.
- It is as fun as going to school.
A metaphor compares two things without using the word “as” or “like”.
- She is my sunshine.
- He is in a sea of grief at the moment because his dog died.
- We are playing with fire.
(=We are doing something dangerous)
Personification is when we give human characteristics to non-human things.
- The trees danced in the wind.
- The moon smiled down on us.
Metaphors, similes, and personification are a great way to make your language more interesting and unique. Also, similes and metaphors are used in many common English expressions.
Advanced English learners should practice and try to use these when they speak. However, do not use them too much. If you only speak in similes or metaphors, then nobody will be able to understand what you are staying.
