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Last updated on Feb 11, 2022

90+ Must-Know Metaphor Examples to Improve Your Prose

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About Dario Villirilli

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What figure of speech is so meta that it forms the very basis of riddles? The answer: a metaphor.

As Milan Kundera wrote in The Unbearable Lightness of Being : “Metaphors are dangerous. Metaphors are not to be trifled with.” Yet, paradoxically, they are an inescapable part of our daily lives — which is why it’s all the more important to understand exactly how they function.

To help, this article has a list of 97 metaphor examples to show you what they look like in the wild. But if you have a moment to spare, let's learn a bit more about what a metaphor is.

What is a metaphor?

A metaphor is a literary device that imaginatively draws a comparison between two unlike things. It does this by stating that Thing A is Thing B. Through this method of equation, metaphors can help explain concepts and ideas by colorfully linking the unknown to the known; the abstract to the concrete; the incomprehensible to the comprehensible. It can also be a rhetorical device that specifically appeals to our sensibilities as readers.

To give you a starting point, here are some examples of common metaphors:

• “Bill is an early bird.”
• “Life is a highway.”
• “Her eyes were diamonds.”

Note that metaphors are always non-literal. As much as you might like to greet your significant other with a warhammer in hand (“love is a battlefield”) or bring 50 tanks of gasoline every time you go on a date (“love is a journey”), that’s not likely to happen in reality. Another spoiler alert: no, Katy Perry doesn't literally think that you're a firework. Rather, these are all instances of metaphors in action.

How does a metaphor differ from a simile?

Simile and metaphor are both figures of speech that draw resemblances between two things. However, the devil’s in the details. Unlike metaphors, similes use like and as to directly create the comparison. “Life is like a box of chocolates,” for instance, is a simile. But if you say, “Life is a highway,” you’re putting a metaphor in motion.

The best way to understand how a metaphor can be used is to see it in practice — luckily, we’ve got a bucket-load of metaphor examples handy for you to peruse.

The Ultimate List of 90+ Metaphor Examples

Metaphors penetrate the entire spectrum of our existence — so we turned to many mediums to dig them up, from William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to the Backstreet Boys’ ancient discography. Feel free to skip to your section of interest below for metaphor examples.

Literature Poetry Daily Expressions Songs Films Famous Quotations

Metaphors in literature are drops of water: as essential as they are ubiquitous. Writers use literary metaphors to evoke an emotional response or paint a vivid picture. Other times, a metaphor might explain a phenomenon. Given the amount of nuance that goes into it, a metaphor example in a text can sometimes deserve as much interpretation as the text itself.

Metaphors can make prose more muscular or imagery more vivid:

1. “Exhaustion is a thin blanket tattered with bullet holes.” ― If Then , Matthew De Abaitua

2. “But it is just two lovers, holding hands and in a hurry to reach their car, their locked hands a starfish leaping through the dark.” ― Rabbit, Run , John Updike

3. “The sun in the west was a drop of burning gold that slid near and nearer the sill of the world.” — Lord of the Flies , William Golding

4. “Bobby Holloway says my imagination is a three-hundred-ring circus. Currently I was in ring two hundred and ninety-nine, with elephants dancing and clowns cart wheeling and tigers leaping through rings of fire. The time had come to step back, leave the main tent, go buy some popcorn and a Coke, bliss out, cool down.” — Seize the Night ,   Dean Koontz

Writers frequently turn to metaphors to describe people in unexpected ways:

5. “But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!” — Romeo & Juliet , William Shakespeare

6. “Who had they been, all these mothers and sisters and wives? What were they now? Moons, blank and faceless, gleaming with borrowed light, each spinning loyally around a bigger sphere.  ‘Invisible,’ said Faith under her breath. Women and girls were so often unseen, forgotten, afterthoughts. Faith herself had used it to good effect, hiding in plain sight and living a double life. But she had been blinded by exactly the same invisibility-of-the-mind, and was only just realizing it.” ― The Lie Tree , Frances Hardinge

7. “’I am a shark, Cassie,’ he says slowly, drawing the words out, as if he might be speaking to me for the last time. Looking into my eyes with tears in his, as if he's seeing me for the last time. "A shark who dreamed he was a man.’” ― The Last Star , Rick Yancey

8. “Her mouth was a fountain of delight.” — The Storm , Kate Chopin

9. “The parents looked upon Matilda in particular as nothing more than a scab. A scab is something you have to put up with until the time comes when you can pick it off and flick it away.” — Matilda , Roald Dahl

10. “Mr. Neck storms into class, a bull chasing thirty-three red flags." — Speak , Laurie Anderson

11. “’Well, you keep away from her, cause she’s a rattrap if I ever seen one.’” — Of Mice and Men , John Steinbeck

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Metaphors can help “visualize” a situation or put an event in context:

12. “But now, O Lord, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand.” —Isaiah 64:8

13. “He could hear Beatty's voice. ‘Sit down, Montag. Watch. Delicately, like the petals of a flower. Light the first page, light the second page. Each becomes a black butterfly. Beautiful, eh? Light the third page from the second and so on, chainsmoking, chapter by chapter, all the silly things the words mean, all the false promises, all the second-hand notions and time-worn philosophies.’” — Fahrenheit 451 , Ray Bradbury

To entertain and tickle the brain, metaphor examples sometimes compare two extremely unlike things:

14. “Delia was an overbearing cake with condescending frosting, and frankly, I was on a diet.” ― Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception , Maggie Stiefvater

15. "The sun was a toddler insistently refusing to go to bed: It was past eight thirty and still light.” — Fault in Our Stars , John Green

16. “If wits were pins, the man would be a veritable hedgehog.” ― Fly by Night , Frances Hardinge

17. “What's this?" he inquired, none too pleasantly. "A circus?" "No, Julius. It's the end of the circus." "I see. And these are the clowns?" Foaly's head poked through the doorway. "Pardon me for interrupting your extended circus metaphor, but what the hell is that?” ― Artemis Fowl , Eoin Colfer

18. “Using a metaphor in front of a man as unimaginative as Ridcully was the same as putting a red flag to a bu — the same as putting something very annoying in front of someone who was annoyed by it.” ― Lords and Ladies , Terry Pratchett

Metaphors can help frame abstract concepts in ways that readers can easily grasp:

19. “My thoughts are stars I cannot fathom into constellations.” —The Fault In Our Stars , John Green

20. “If you can look into the seeds of time, and say which grain will grow and which will not, speak then to me.” — Macbeth , William Shakespeare

21. “Memories are bullets. Some whiz by and only spook you. Others tear you open and leave you in pieces.” ― Kill the Dead , Richard Kadrey

22. “Wishes are thorns, he told himself sharply. They do us no good, just stick into our skin and hurt us.” ― A Face Like Glass , Frances Hardinge

23. “’Life' wrote a friend of mine, 'is a public performance on the violin, in which you must learn the instrument as you go along.” ― A Room with a View , E.M. Forster

24. “There was an invisible necklace of nows, stretching out in front of her along the crazy, twisting road, each bead a golden second.” ― Cuckoo Song , Frances Hardinge

25. “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” — As You Like It , William Shakespeare

Particularly prominent in the realm of poetry is the extended metaphor: a single metaphor that extends throughout all or part of a piece of work . Also known as a conceit , it is used by poets to develop an idea or concept in great detail over the length of a poem. (And we have some metaphor examples for you below.)

If you’d like to get a sense of the indispensable role that metaphors play in poetry, look no further than what Robert Frost once said: “They are having night schools now, you know, for college graduates. Why? Because they don’t know when they are being fooled by a metaphor. Education by poetry is education by metaphor.”

Poets use metaphors directly in the text to explain emotions and opinions:

26. She must make him happy. She must be his favorite place in Minneapolis. You are a souvenir shop, where he goes to remember how much people miss him when he is gone. —“ Unrequited Love Poem ,” Sierra DeMulder

27. She is all states, and all princes, I. Nothing else is. Princes do but play us; compared to this, All honour's mimic, all wealth alchemy. —“ The Sun Rising ,” John Donne

28. I watched a girl in a sundress kiss another girl on a park bench, and just as the sunlight spilled perfectly onto both of their hair, I thought to myself: How bravely beautiful it is, that sometimes, the sea wants the city, even when it has been told its entire life it was meant for the shore. —“I Watched A Girl In A Sundress,” Christopher Poindexter

Extended metaphors in particular explore and advance major themes in poems:

29. All our words are but crumbs that fall down from the feast of the mind. Thinking is always the stumbling stone to poetry. A great singer is he who sings our silences. How can you sing if your mouth be filled with food? How shall your hand be raised in blessing if it is filled with gold? They say the nightingale pierces his bosom with a thorn when he sings his love song. —“ Sand and Foam ,” Khalil Gibran

30. But a BIRD that stalks down his narrow cage / Can seldom see through his bars of rage / His wings are clipped and his feet are tied So he opens his throat to sing. —“ Caged Bird ,” Maya Angelou

31. Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by / And that has made all the difference. —“ The Road Not Taken ,” Robert Frost

32. Marriage is not a house or even a tent it is before that, and colder: the edge of the forest, the edge of the desert the edge of the receding glacier where painfully and with wonder at having survived even this far we are learning to make fire —“ Habitation ,” Margaret Atwood

33. These poems do not live: it's a sad diagnosis. They grew their toes and fingers well enough, Their little foreheads bulged with concentration. If they missed out on walking about like people It wasn't for any lack of mother-love. —“ Stillborn ,” Sylvia Plath

34. Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul / And sings the tune without the words / And never stops at all. —“ Hope Is The Thing With Feathers ,” Emily Dickinson

Expressions

Here’s some food for thought (35): you’ve probably already used a metaphor (or more) in your daily speech today without even realizing it. Metaphorical expressions pepper the English language by helping us illustrate and pinpoint exactly what we want to say. As a result, metaphors are everywhere in our common vocabulary: you may even be drowning in a sea (36) of them as we speak. But let’s cut to our list of metaphor examples before we jump the shark (37).

38. Love is a battlefield.

39. You’ve given me something to chew on.

40. He’s just blowing off steam.

41. That is music to my ears.

42. Love is a fine wine.

43. She’s a thorn in my side.

44. You are the light in my life.

45. He has the heart of a lion.

46. Am I talking to a brick wall?

47. He has ants in his pants.

48. Beauty is a fading flower.

49. She has a heart of stone.

50. Fear is a beast that feeds on attention.

51. Life is a journey.

52. He’s a late bloomer.

53. He is a lame duck now.

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Metaphors are a must-have tool in every lyricist’s toolkit. From Elvis to Beyonce, songwriters use them to instinctively connect listeners to imagery and paint a visual for them. Most of the time, they find new ways to describe people, love — and, of course, break-ups. So if you’re thinking, “This is so sad Alexa play Titanium,” right now, you’re in the right place: here’s a look at some metaphor examples in songs.

54. You ain't nothin' but a hound dog / Cryin' all the time —“Hound Dog,” Elvis Presley

55. You're a fallen star / You're the getaway car / You're the line in the sand / When I go too far / You're the swimming pool / On an August day / And you're the perfect thing to say — “Everything,” Michael Buble

56. 'Cause baby you're a firework / Come on show 'em what your worth / Make 'em go "Oh, oh, oh!" / As you shoot across the sky-y-y — “Firework,” Katy Perry

57. I'm bulletproof nothing to lose / Fire away, fire away / Ricochet, you take your aim / Fire away, fire away / You shoot me down but I won't fall, I am titanium —“Titanium,” David Guetta

58. Life is a highway / I wanna ride it all night long / If you're going my way / I wanna drive it all night long —“Life Is A Highway,” Rascal Flatts

59. She's a Saturn with a sunroof / With her brown hair a-blowing / She's a soft place to land / And a good feeling knowing / She's a warm conversation —“She’s Everything,” Brad Paisley

60. I'm a marquise diamond / Could even make that Tiffany jealous / You say I give it to you hard / So bad, so bad / Make you never wanna leave / I won't, I won't —“Good For You,’ Selena Gomez

61. Remember those walls I built / Well, baby, they're tumbling down / And they didn't even put up a fight / They didn't even make a sound —“Halo,” Beyonce

62. Did I ever tell you you're my hero? / You're everything, everything I wish I could be / Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle / For you are the wind beneath my wings / 'Cause you are the wind beneath my wings —“Wind Beneath My Wings,” Bette Midler

63. You are my fire / The one desire / Believe when I say I want it that way —“I Want It That Way,” Backstreet Boys

64. Your body is a wonderland / Your body is a wonder (I'll use my hands) / Your body is a wonderland —“Your Body Is A Wonderland,” John Mayer

65. I'm walking on sunshine (Wow!) / I'm walking on sunshine (Wow!) / I'm walking on sunshine (Wow!) / And don't it feel good —“I’m Walking On Sunshine,” Katrina and the Waves

66. If you wanna be with me / Baby there's a price to pay / I'm a genie in a bottle / You gotta rub me the right way —“Genie in a Bottle,” Christina Aguilera

67. If God is a DJ, life is a dance floor / Love is the rhythm, you are the music / If God is a DJ, life is a dance floor / You get what you're given it's all how you use it —“God Is A DJ,” P!nk

68. If this town / Is just an apple / Then let me take a bite —“Human Nature,” Michael Jackson

69. I just wanna be part of your symphony / Will you hold me tight and not let go? —“Symphony,” Clean Bandit

70. My heart's a stereo / It beats for you, so listen close / Hear my thoughts in every note —“Stereo Hearts,” Gym Class Heroes

71. I'm the sunshine in your hair / I'm the shadow on the ground / I'm the whisper in the wind / I'm your imaginary friend —“I’m Already There,” Lonestar

Films can add a different angle to the concept of a metaphor: because it’s a visual medium, certain objects on-screen will actually represent whatever the filmmaker intends it to represent. The same principle applies, of course — there’s still a direct comparison being made. It’s just that we can see the metaphor examples with our own eyes now.

Films can visually make clear comparisons between two elements on the screen:

72. “What beautiful blossoms we have this year. But look, this one’s late. I’ll bet that when it blooms it will be the most beautiful of all.” —from  Mulan

73. “Love is an open door Can I say something crazy? Will you marry me? Can I say something even crazier? Yes!” —from  Frozen

Metaphors are used in dialogue for characters to express themselves:

74. “You're television incarnate, Diana. Indifferent to suffering, insensitive to joy.” — Network

75. “Life's a climb. But the view is great.” — Hannah Montana: the Movie

Did you know that Plato was using metaphors to express his thoughts all the way back in 427 BC? Since then, some of our greatest minds have continued to turn to metaphors when illuminating ideas in front of the general public — a practice that’s become particularly prominent in political speeches and pithy witticisms. Here’s a sample of some of the ways that famous quotes have incorporated metaphor examples in the past.

76. “All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree.” —Albert Einstein

77. “A good conscience is a continual Christmas.” —Benjamin Franklin

78. “America has tossed its cap over the wall of space.” —John F. Kennedy

79. “I don't approve of political jokes; I have seen too many of them get elected.” —Jon Stewart

80. “Conscience is a man’s compass.” —Vincent Van Gogh

81. “In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” —Albert Camus

82. “Time is the moving image of eternity.” ―Plato

83. “Every human is a school subject. This is rather a metaphorical way of saying it, to put it straight, those you love are few, and the ones you detest are many.” ―Michael Bassey Johnson

84. “Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.” —Will Rogers

85. “Life is little more than a loan shark: it exacts a very high rate of interest for the few pleasures it concedes.” —Luigi Pirandello

86. “America: in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words.  With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come.” —Barack Obama

87. “Bolshevism is a ghoul descending from a pile of skulls. It is not a policy; it is a disease. It is not a creed; it is a pestilence.” —Winston Churchill

88. “Books are mirrors of the soul.” —Virginia Woolf

89. “My life has a superb cast, but I can't figure out the plot.” —Ashleigh Brilliant

90. “I feel like we’re all in a super shitty Escape Room with really obvious clues like, ‘vote’ and ‘believe women’ and ‘don’t put children in cages.’” — Natasha Rothwell

91. “I travel the world, and I'm happy to say that America is still the great melting pot — maybe a chunky stew rather than a melting pot at this point, but you know what I mean.” —Philip Glass

92. “Life is a long road on a short journey.” —James Lendall Basford

93. “What therefore is truth? A mobile army of metaphors, metonymies, anthropomorphisms: in short a sum of human relations which become poetically and rhetorically intensified, metamorphosed, adorned, and after long usage seem to a nation fixed, canonic and binding.” —Nietzsche

94. “Life is a foreign language: all men mispronounce it.” —Christopher Morley

95. “Dying is a wild night and a new road.” —Emily Dickinson

96. “And your very flesh shall be a great poem.” —Walt Whitman

And as a bonus gift, here’s one last metaphor for the road, from one of our brightest philosophers. We’ll let Calvin have the last word:

6 responses

James Hubbs says:

21/10/2018 – 23:44

Very useful article. Thank you. However, Fahrenheit 451 was written by Ray Bradbury, not George Orwell.

↪️ Reedsy replied:

22/10/2018 – 00:42

Great spot, James! That's now been fixed. Glad that the article was useful :)

Jonboy says:

21/05/2019 – 19:11

That Sylvia Plath quote nailed me. Ouch! Haven't read it but have to now...

21/06/2019 – 17:02

Another metaphor I love is “I’m just like them— an ordinary drone dressed in secrets and lies.” It’s from Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

DAVID COWART says:

18/11/2019 – 01:59

life is a highway is Tom Cochrane, not Rascal Flats

↪️ Martin Cavannagh replied:

22/11/2019 – 12:54

Rascal Flatts did a cover of the song. We were deciding between the two and decided that "Rascal Flatts" sounded funnier :D

Comments are currently closed.

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The Big List of 125+ Metaphor Examples and Tips for Writers

Metaphors are everywhere! To help you understand this rhetorical device, here’s a big list of 125+ metaphor examples   (plus tips for writers ). But first, let’s talk about the engine of storytelling that make metaphors work.

All About Metaphors

What is a metaphor?

A metaphor compares two dissimilar things by equating one thing as the other thing. By this comparison, our minds can bring one idea into the conceptual space of another idea. When you compare two objects, one of them is seen in a different light, illuminated and re-configured through that comparison.

The concrete becomes abstract, the ephemeral grounded momentarily, the unknown related to the known in a way that helps us understand. This tendency to compare two unlike things is a very human activity.

In fact, our brains are designed to think in metaphorical constructs. George Lakoff explains that “One of the fundamental findings of cognitive science is that people think in terms of frames and metaphors […] The frames are in the synapses of our brains, physically present in the form of neural circuitry. When the facts don’t fit the frames, the frames are kept and the facts ignored.” We see things differently when we look through the lens of metaphor.

Our minds weave ideas together continuously so that we can better understand events, objects, and even people and their motivations. Metaphors are not literal at all — in fact, they are intentionally told as figurative retellings of the world, laying a fabric of imaginative story over raw reality and transforming that reality into a mini-story.

Before we get to the big list of metaphor examples , it’s useful to know there are different ways of writing metaphors.

Metaphor VS. Simile

Metaphor is the big idea behind the comparison between two different objects. However, in English, we use two different words to describe different instances of the rhetorical device known as a metaphor.

A metaphor proper compares two things by simply stating that this thing is that thing. A = B.

Metaphor Examples

Examples of basic metaphors include:

• “Mary is a ray of sunshine.”
• “I’m swimming in emails.”
• “Vacation is heaven.”
• “Love is a battlefield.”

Simile Examples

A simile is a metaphor that uses the words like or as to make the same sort of metaphorical comparison.

Examples of similes in action include:

• “Dale works like a grumpy donkey.”
• “Life is like a box of chocolates.”
• “Her face shines as a jewel.”

Writers on Metaphorical Writing

Metaphors can bring the joy of storytelling into every sentence that you create and can propel your readers forward through your story. To provide you with a navigational map through the sea of metaphors, I’ve listed 125 metaphor examples  at work. But before we get to the big list, let’s see what famous writers have said about the power of metaphor.

The British novelist Mary Anne Evans (who published as George Eliot ) wrote about how metaphor compels us to act: “For we all of us, grave or light, get our thoughts entangled in metaphors, and act fatally on the strength of them.”

The Czech writer Milan Kundera agreed with Eliot. He wrote: “Metaphors are dangerous. Metaphors are not to be trifled with.” Yet despite this danger, novelists need to use metaphor to communicate deeper truths.

The hilarious Terry Pratchett sums up the idea in one of his novels: “A metaphor is a kind o’ lie to help people understand what’s true.”

Pratchett was on the right path. Because as one of the authors of the entire modern way of thinking about logic and storytelling told us, achieving master in metaphor is the height of storytelling. Aristotle said: “The greatest thing by far is to be a master of metaphor; it is the one thing that cannot be learnt from others; and it is also a sign of genius, since a good metaphor implies an intuitive perception of the similarity in the dissimilar.”

The inimitable Ray Bradbury described his writing this way: “I speak in tongues. I write metaphors. Every one of my stories is a metaphor you can remember. The great religions are all metaphor. We appreciate things like Daniel and the lion’s den, and the Tower of Babel. People remember these metaphors because they are so vivid.”

Finally, the Italian novelist and critic Umberto Eco explained the device precisely: “Metaphors set up not only similarities but also oppositions. A cup and a shield are alike in their form (round and concave), but opposite in their function (peace vs. war), just as Ares and Dionysus are alike insofar as they are gods, but opposite with regard to the ends they pursue and to the instruments they use.”

The Big List of 125+ Metaphors

Metaphors make us human and bring us into a story. They serve as guideposts on the storytelling path and help us navigate our experience. The wonderful novelist Haruki Murakami tells us that we should not try to explain them, but instead embrace the idea. Murakami writes: “Allegories and metaphors are not something you should explain in words. You just grasp them and accept them.”

In the big list of metaphor examples below, you’ll find metaphors from many writers in many genres of literature.

Browse freely — skip around! Enjoy swimming in the sea of metaphor!

Everyday Expressions

Human beings naturally think in metaphor. So you probably use metaphorical ideas in conversation every day. Metaphorical expressions populate the English language with verve and insight. Here are a few everyday expressions that are, in fact, metaphors.

Fit as a fiddle

Happy as a clam

Dull as dishwater

That man is a pig.

She is an old flame

Silent as the grave

Time is money

He is sharp as a tack

You are my sunshine

You are the light in my life.

That politician is a lame duck.

Don’t talk to a brick wall

She has ants in her pants.

Fear feeds on attention.

Depression is a dark shadow.

Joy is a gift.

Life is a journey.

She’s a late bloomer.

Human beings invented storytelling when our communication was an oral culture. Stories we told around the fire, or sung by storytellers who memorized by listening to other storytellers. In fact, early writers such as Socrates and Plato argued about the relative merits of writing stories down instead of telling or singing them! Today, storytellers continue to use song to entrance us — and every lyricist uses metaphors.

It might seem crazy what I’m ’bout to say / Sunshine she’s here, you can take a break / I’m a hot air balloon that could go to space / With the air, like I don’t care, baby, by the way– Pharrell Williams – Happy

I can’t let you go, your hand prints on my soul / It’s like your eyes are liquor, it’s like your body is gold– End Game, Taylor Swift

See the girl with the diamonds in her shoes? Yeah / She walks around like she’s got nothing to lose / Faith– Stevie Wonder and Ariana Grand

Did I ever tell you you’re my hero? / You’re everything, everything I wish I could be / Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle / For you are the wind beneath my wings / ‘Cause you are the wind beneath my wings “Wind Beneath My Wings,” Bette Midler

If this town / Is just an apple / Then let me take a bite– “Human Nature,” Michael Jackson

You are my fire / The one desire / Believe when I say I want it that way– “I Want It That Way,” Backstreet Boys

Your body is a wonderland / Your body is a wonder (I’ll use my hands) / Your body is a wonderland– “Your Body Is A Wonderland,” John Mayer

The world was on fire and no one could save me but you / It’s strange what desire will make foolish people do…. / What a wicked game you play, to make me feel this way — Wicked Game, Chris Isaak

I’m walking on sunshine (Wow!) / I’m walking on sunshine (Wow!) / I’m walking on sunshine (Wow!) / And don’t it feel good —“I’m Walking On Sunshine,” Katrina and the Waves

If you wanna be with me / Baby there’s a price to pay / I’m a genie in a bottle / You gotta rub me the right way– “Genie in a Bottle,” Christina Aguilera

If God is a DJ, life is a dance floor / Love is the rhythm, you are the music / If God is a DJ, life is a dance floor / You get what you’re given it’s all how you use it– “God Is A DJ,” P!nk

My heart’s a stereo / It beats for you, so listen close / Hear my thoughts in every note– “Stereo Hearts,” Gym Class Heroes

I’m the sunshine in your hair / I’m the shadow on the ground / I’m the whisper in the wind / I’m your imaginary friend– “I’m Already There,” Lonestar

A tornado flew around my room before you came / excuse the mess it made, it usually doesn’t rain in Southern California– Thinking Bout You – Frank Ocean

Oh, she got both feet on the ground / And she’s burning it down / Oh, she got her head in the clouds / And she’s not backing down / This girl is on fire– Alicia Keys – Girl On Fire

Metaphor is used extensively in the literary arts.  In fact, much of the formalist movement in literary criticism focused on analyzing the effects and the implications of metaphor in literature.

Writers therefore often think in metaphors. This is the common mode of expression of great writers. Here are examples from several of our greatest literary thinkers.

In the depths of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer. —Albert Camus

Books are mirrors of the soul. — Virginia Woolf

She is a friend of my mind. She gather me, man. The pieces I am, she gather them and give them back to me in all the right order.― Toni Morrison

“Anger is the wind which blows out the lamp of the mind.” ―  Bodie Thoene

“If funkytown was a trailerpark, this guy would be a double-wide.”― Maya Angelou

What therefore is truth? A mobile army of metaphors, metonymies, anthropomorphisms: in short a sum of human relations which become poetically and rhetorically intensified, metamorphosed, adorned, and after long usage seem to a nation fixed, canonic and binding. —Friedrich Nietzsche

Dying is a wild night and a new road. —Emily Dickinson

I have a huge and savage conscience that won’t let me get away with things.― Octavia E. Butler

And your very flesh shall be a great poem.– Walt Whitman

“Happiness is the china shop; love is the bull.” ― H.L. Mencken

“Life is a moderately good play with a badly written third act.” ― Truman Capote

“Religion is the sigh of the oppressed creature, the heart of a heartless world, and the soul of soulless conditions. It is the opium of the people…. Religion is only the illusory Sun which revolves around man as long as he does not revolve around himself.” ― Karl Marx

“Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor.” ― Truman Capote

“I’m a little pencil in the hand of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world.”― Mother Teresa

“Into the darkness they go, the wise and the lovely. ” ― Edna St. Vincent Millay

Poetry is often constructed of extended metaphor. This is a technique that takes a single comparative idea and explores how that idea works in a longer work of poetry. In earlier times, this extended metaphorical device was also known as a  conceit . Here are some examples from poetic history.

Let’s start with a famous yet complete poem that contains several metaphors throughout:

Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die Life is a broken-winged bird That cannot fly. Hold fast to dreams For when dreams go Life is a barren field Frozen with snow. — Dreams, Langston Hughes

And in this poem, Syliva Plath describes her pregnancy:

An elephant, a ponderous house A melon strolling on two tendrils….. I’ve eaten a bag of green apples, Boarded the train there’s no getting off. — Sylvia Plath, Metaphors

Before high piled books, in character, Hold like rich garners the full-ripened grain. — When I have Fears, John Keats

Hope is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul, And sings the tune without the words, And never stops at all. – Emily Dickinson

The world is charged with the grandeur of God. It will flame out, like shining from shook foil; It gathers to a greatness, like the ooze of oil — God’s Grandeur, Gerard Manley Hopkins

We often sing lullabies to our children that we ourselves may sleep. All our words are but crumbs that fall down from the feast of the mind. Thinking is always the stumbling stone to poetry. A great singer is he who sings our silences. “Sand and Foam,” Khalil Gibran

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill of things unknown but longed for still and his tune is heard on the distant hill for the caged bird sings of freedom. —“Caged Bird,” Maya Angelou

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. —“The Road Not Taken,” Robert Frost

Marriage is not a house or even a tent it is before that, and colder: the edge of the forest, the edge of the desert —“Habitation,” Margaret Atwood .

Metaphors in the Bible

One of the earliest written collections of a culture’s literature is today known as the Bible. The Bible is actually a collection of many shorter works, which were later compiled into one volume. The Bible contains many examples of literary technique, among them many instances of metaphorical language.

The teaching of the wise a fountain of life . — Proverbs 13:14

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.– Matthew 5:13

Jesus said to them, ‘ i am the bread of life; he who comes to me will not hunger, and he who believes in me will never thirst.’– John 6:35

O Lord, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand.– Isaiah 64:8

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.– Psalm 23:1

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, ‘ i am the Light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.’– John 8:12

“I am the good shepherd, … and I lay down my life for the sheep.”– John 10:14-15

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.– Psalm 18:2

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.– John 15:5

Shakespeare

William Shakespeare is broadly considered to be the greatest playwright in the English language. It might be interesting to know that many of the common metaphors we use in everyday speech today originated in Shakespeare’s prose. Here are some examples of both everyday phrases that came from Shakespeare’s pen, as well as other metaphorical examples from Shakespeare’s wonderful writing.

‘wild goose chase’ ―  William Shakespeare,  Romeo and Juliet

‘seen better days’ ―  William Shakespeare, As You Like It

‘forever and a day’ ―  William Shakespeare, As You Like It

‘good riddance’ ―  William Shakespeare,  Troilus and Cressida .

“When the devout religion of mine eye Maintains such falsehood, then turn tears to fires, And these, who, often drowned, could never die, Transparent heretics, be burnt for liars! One fairer than my love? The all-seeing sun Ne’er saw her match since first the world begun.” ― William Shakespeare,   Romeo and Juliet

But, look, the morn, in russet mantle clad, Walks o’er the dew of yon high eastern hill ―  William Shakespeare,  Hamlet

Look, love, what envious streaks Do lace the severing clouds in yonder East: Night’s candles are burnt out, and jocund day Stands tiptoe on the misty mountain tops — William Shakespeare,  Romeo and Juliet

His face is all carbuncles, and whelks, and knobs, and flames of fire; and his lips plows at his nose, and it is like a coal of fire, sometimes blue, and sometimes red; but his nose is executed, and his fire is out. ―  William Shakespeare,  Henry V

Thou  sure and firm-set earth, Hear not my steps, which way they walk, for fear The very stones prate of my whereabout, And take the present horror from the time, Which now suits with it. ―  William Shakespeare,  Macbeth

For his bounty, There was no Winter in’t; an Autumn  ’twas That grew the more by reaping: his delights Were dolphin-like; they show’d his back above The element they liv’d in: in his livery Walk’d crowns and crownets ―  William Shakespeare,  Antony & Cleopatra

Death, that hath suck’d the honey of thy  breath, Hath had no power yet upon thy beauty: Thou art not conquer’d; beauty’s ensign yet Is crimson in thy lips and in thy cheeks, And death’s pale flag is not advancèd there. Why art thou yet so fair? shall I believe That unsubstantial Death is amorous; And that the lean abhorrèd monster keeps Thee  here in dark to be his paramour? ―  William Shakespeare,  Romeo and Juliet

O, then th’ Earth shook to see the heavens on fire, And not in fear of your nativity. Diseasèd Nature oftentimes breaks forth In strange eruptions;  oft  the teeming Earth Is with a kind of cholic pinch’d and vex’d By the imprisoning of unruly wind Within her womb; which, for enlargement striving, Shakes the old beldame Earth, and topples down Steeples and moss-grown towers. At your birth, Our grandam Earth, having this  distemperature , In passion shook ―  William Shakespeare,  Henry IV

Come, thick night, And  pall  thee in the  dunnest  smoke of Hell, That my keen knife see not the wound it makes, Nor Heaven peep through the blanket of the dark, To cry  Hold, hold ! ―  William Shakespeare,  Macbeth

Heaven’s cherubin, hors’d Upon the sightless couriers of the air, Shall blow the horrid deed in every eye, That tears shall drown the wind. ―  William Shakespeare,  Macbeth

It is suppos’d, He that meets Hector issues from our choice: And choice, being mutual act of all our souls, Makes merit her election; and  doth  boil, As ’twere from forth us all, a man distill’d Out of our virtues. ―  William Shakespeare,Troilus and Cressida

To be, or not to be; that is the question: Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And, by opposing, end them. ―  William Shakespeare,  Hamlet

O thou day o’ the world, Chain mine arm’d neck; leap thou, attire and all, Through proof of harness to my heart, and there Ride on the pants triúmphing! ―  William Shakespeare,  Antony & Cleopatra

This royal throne of kings, this sceptred isle, This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars, This other Eden, demi-paradise, This fortress built by Nature for herself… This precious stone set in the silver sea, Which serves it in the office of a wall, Or as a moat defensive to a house, Against the envy of less happier lands, This blessed plot, this earth, this realm this England… ―  William Shakespeare,  Richard II

All the world’s a stage , And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts ―  William Shakespeare,  As You Like It

I wasted time, and now doth time waste me; For now hath time made me his numbering clock: My thoughts are minutes; and with sighs they jar Their watches on unto mine eyes, the outward watch… Now sir, the sound that tells what hour it is Are clamorous groans, which strike upon my heart, Which is the bell: so sighs and tears and groans Show minutes, times, and hours. ―  William Shakespeare,  Richard II

Like to the Pontic sea, Whose icy current and compulsive course Ne’er feels retiring ebb, but keeps due on To the Propontic and the Hellespont, Even so my bloody thoughts, with violent pace ―  William Shakespeare,  Othello

But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the East, and Juliet is the sun! Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon, Who is already sick and pale with grief That thou her maid art far more fair than she. Be not her maid, since she is envious. Her vestal livery is but sick and green, And none but fools do wear it. ―  William Shakespeare,  Romeo and Juliet

Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate: Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, And summer’s lease hath all too short a date; ―  William Shakespeare, Sonnet 18

Death’s second self, that seals up all in rest. In me thou see’st the glowing of such fire, That on the ashes of his youth doth lie, As the death-bed, whereon it must expire, Consumed with that which it was nourish’d by. This thou perceiv’st, which makes thy love more strong, To love that well, which thou must leave ere long. ―  William Shakespeare, Sonnet 73

My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun; Coral is far more red, than her lips red: If snow be white, why then her breasts are dun; If hairs be wires, black wires grow on her head. I have seen roses damasked, red and white, But no such roses see I in her cheeks; And in some perfumes is there more delight Than in the breath that from my mistress reeks. ―  William Shakespeare, Sonnet 130

Writing Metaphor Examples

Now that you have some grounding in the historical use of metaphor in song, poetry and literature, here are some additional examples from writers through the centuries.

“The sun in the west was a drop of burning gold that slid near and nearer the sill of the world.”– Lord of the Flies , William Golding

“Her mouth was a fountain of delight.”– The Storm , Kate Chopin

“The parents looked upon Matilda in particular as nothing more than a scab. A scab is something you have to put up with until the time comes when you can pick it off and flick it away.”– Matilda , Roald Dahl

“’Well, you keep away from her, cause she’s a rattrap if I ever seen one.’”– Of Mice and Men , John Steinbeck

“He could hear Beatty’s voice. ‘Sit down, Montag. Watch. Delicately, like the petals of a flower. Light the first page, light the second page. Each becomes a black butterfly. Beautiful, eh? Light the third page from the second and so on, chainsmoking, chapter by chapter, all the silly things the words mean, all the false promises, all the second-hand notions and time-worn philosophies.’”– Fahrenheit 451 ,  Ray Bradbury

“There was an invisible necklace of nows, stretching out in front of her along the crazy, twisting road, each bead a golden second.”– Cuckoo Song , Frances Hardinge

“Every word was a singing sparrow, a magic trick, a truffle for me. The words made me laugh in delight.”― Elizabeth Gilbert,  Eat, Pray, Love

“Know that diamonds and roses are as uncomfortable when they tumble from one’s lips as toads and frogs: colder, too, and sharper, and they cut.”― Neil Gaiman,  Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders

“But it is just two lovers, holding hands and in a hurry to reach their car, their locked hands a starfish leaping through the dark.”― Updike, John, Rabbit, Run

“If Bagel’s face was a lump of clay on a pottery wheel, it’d been rapidly thrown from an angry grey blob to a rather enthusiastic vase.”― Mandy Ashcraft,  Small Orange Fruit

“I want to paint the way a bird sings.”― Claude Monet,  Monet By Himself

“He is capable of turning everything into anything–snow into skin, skin into blossoms, blossoms into sugar, sugar into powder, and powder back into little drifts of snow–for all that matters to him, apparently, is to make things into what they are not, which is doubtless proof that he cannot stand being anywhere for long, wherever he happens to be.”― Robert Musil,  The Man Without Qualities

“She remembered love, though, and a feeling of warmth. It was like remembering light, or the glow that sometimes persists after a light has gone out.”― Alexander McCall Smith,  Emma

“God blows on the leaves, they turn to gold, and we call it autumn.”― Joyce Rachelle

“What is it that you contain? The dead, time, light patterns of millenia opening in your gut. What is salted up in the memory of you? Memory past and memory future.”― Jeanette Winterson,  Gut Symmetries

“The sky is diluted scarlet. It is an oddity, a noticeable wound in the fabric of our world. In specific areas, like Solange’s island, it stands out like a blooming flower in a dying garden.”― Ilse V. Rensburg,  Time Torn

“His music gave no lesser joy than a vacation. Creativity in his music and its success stood out as an example to all kinds of artists, in the lectures of business speakers, engineers, and to anyone who built or constructed something in their respective profession.”― Amit Kalantri,  One Bucket of Tears

“She looked playful and eager, but not quite sure of herself, like a new kitten in a house where they don’t care much about kittens.”― Raymond Chandler,  The Lady in the Lake

“It’s like the tide, Jo, when it turns it goes slowly–but it can’t be stopped.”― Louisa May Alcott,  Little Women

“Reminiscences of old, dried-over pains were no consolation in the face of this. They had the effect of cold beads of water on a hot iron – they danced and fizzled up while the room stank from their steam.”― Gloria Naylor,  The Women of Brewster Place

“Depression is kind of quantum physics of thought and emotion. It reveals what is normally hidden. It unravels you”― Matt Haig,  Reasons to Stay Alive

“At one extreme…the hours seemed to aggregate and sell like a wave, swallowing huge chunks of her day. At the other extreme when her attention was disengaged and fractured she experienced time at its most granular wherein moments hung around like particles diffused and suspended and standing in water. There used to be a middle way, too, when her attention was focussed but vast and time felt like a limpid pool ringed by sunlit ferns.”― Ruth Ozeki,  A Tale for the Time Being

“Life is a hurricane, and we board up to save what we can and bow low to the earth to crouch in that small space above the dirt where the wind will not reach. We honor anniversaries of deaths by cleaning graves and sitting next to them before fires, sharing food with those who will not eat again. We raise children and tell them other things about who they can be and what they are worth: to us, everything. We love each other fiercely, while we live and after we die. We survive; we are savages.”― Jesmyn Ward,  Men We Reaped

“It was one of those dangerous moments when speech is at once sincere and deceptive, when feeling, rising high above its average depth, leaves flood-marks which are never reached again.”― George Eliot,  The Mill on the Floss

“Garbage in, garbage out. Or rather more felicitously: the tree of nonsense is watered with error, and from its branches swing the pumpkins of disaster.”― Nick Harkaway,  The Gone-Away World

“I said nothing for a time, just ran my fingertips along the edge of the human-shaped emptiness that had been left inside me.”― Haruki Murakami, Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman

“Half the people in the world think that the metaphors of their religious traditions, for example, are facts. And the other half contends that they are not facts at all. As a result we have people who consider themselves believers because they accept metaphors as facts, and we have others who classify themselves as atheists because they think religious metaphors are lies.”― Joseph Campbell, Thou Art That: Transforming Religious Metaphor

“I wonder which is preferable, to walk around all your life swollen up with your own secrets until you burst from the pressure of them, or to have them sucked out of you, every paragraph, every sentence, every word of them, so at the end you’re depleted of all that was once as precious to you as hoarded gold, as close to you as your skin – everything that was of the deepest importance to you, everything that made you cringe and wish to conceal, everything that belonged to you alone – and must spend the rest of your days like an empty sack flapping in the wind, an empty sack branded with a bright fluorescent label so that everyone will know what sort of secrets used to be inside you?”― Margaret Atwood, The Blind Assassin

“Illness is the night side of life, a more onerous citizenship. Everyone who is born holds dual citizenship, in the kingdom of the well and in the kingdom of the sick. Although we all prefer to use the good passport, sooner or later each of us is obliged, at least for a spell, to identify ourselves as citizens of that other place.”― Susan Sontag, Illness as Metaphor

“I found myself in a sea in which the waves of joy and sorrow were clashing against each other.”― Naguib Mahfouz

“The water made a sound like kittens lapping.”—  The Yearling , by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

“Her romantic mind was like the tiny boxes, one within the other, that come from the puzzling East . . .” —  Peter Pan , by J. M. Barrie

“Computers are like Old Testament gods; lots of rules and no mercy.” ― Joseph Campbell, The Power of Myth

And just for fun…. here’s one last metaphor to wrap up the list!

“Love is a snowmobile racing across the tundra and then suddenly it flips over, pinning you underneath. At night, the ice weasels come.” ― Matt Groening, The Big Book of Hell

How to Use Metaphors in Writing —  3 Essential Tips

1. avoid common idioms and clichés.

Part of the reason that lists like the ones above exist is that most writers know about these comparisons. If you wish to be original, then you would do well to avoid re-using common metaphors that famous writers like William Shakespeare, George Eliot, and Toni Morrison have already used.

Using clichés in your writing will bore your readers and lead them to find more original, inspired writers to read. Here’s one helpful list of clichés you’ll want to avoid in your writing.

2. Compare Logically

A metaphor compares two dissimilar things. While these things should on the surface be very different, they must share some sort of detectable common attributes. Don’t compare two things that just can’t be compared. The metaphor should make some sort of logical sense to the reader.

For example, if you wanted to use a metaphor to describe the rhythmic sound of a drum, it would make sense to compare this to another thing with a rhythmic motion, such as a heartbeat or waves. But it would not make sense to compare a drumbeat to oil sitting in a pan, or a still pool of water. The connection has to exist for you to use it in your work.

Make your metaphors easy to understand so a reader can quickly grasp your point.

3. Avoid Purple Prose with too many metaphors

It is possible to over-use metaphors. Storytelling that launches into metaphorical descriptions without a good grounding in plot and the basics of character description turns into “purple prose” — writing that is full of colorful images but without a sense of momentum or purpose.

Your writing slows down when you use too many metaphors or use them in the wrong way. If you over-use the metaphorical toolset, you risk boring your reader.

Furthermore, if you use too many metaphors, this actually lessens the impact of each metaphor, since they’ll all start to blend together and each one will become less memorable on its own.

If your prose seems over-loaded with metaphors, try to strip down the description to the bare bones, and only use a metaphor that helps us to experience the scene in a new light. If the bare bones description works without a metaphor, it’s always wise to leave it out.

Less is more in the use of metaphors!

Good luck and keep writing!

Read more notes on writing: 

➤ literary devices & terms: 52+ definitions plus examples, ➤ what kind of writer are you pantsers vs plotters, ➤ a word count guide for every book genre: fiction & nonfiction , ➤ how many words do famous writers write every day, ➤ how to deliver a book to an editor: formatting your manuscript .

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Examples of Metaphors in Literature

By Allison Bressmer

Though you may not have noticed, you have likely heard or used quite a few metaphors today. Perhaps you’ve said someone has a “heart of gold” or conversely, a “heart of stone” or called a lively child “a real firecracker!”

A metaphor makes a direct comparison between two things that are generally not related or similar, but share a specific quality or characteristic that is emphasized through the comparison.

While we may learn about metaphor most directly through poetry and literature, metaphors aren’t just for artists. They add color and carry meaning even in our everyday language.

What Is a Metaphor?

How is a metaphor different from a simile, why use metaphors, examples of types of metaphors, what is a mixed metaphor, how to use metaphors in your writing, examples of metaphors, why metaphors are powerful.

A metaphor is a type of figurative language . It is a figure of speech used to convey a message that goes beyond the literal meaning of their words.

Figures of speech are not intended to be taken literally.

A person can’t have a heart of gold or stone, and a child is a human, not an explosive!

So what’s the point of the comparison then? The point is to go beyond literal meanings.

Gold is precious; it’s pure and valuable. A person with a heart of gold is sincere and kind—a purely good person who adds value to others’ experiences.

Stone is cold and hard. A person with a heart of stone shows no emotional tenderness or empathy—no softness or warmth in their personalities.

A firecracker is full of energy and vibrancy. That firecracker child is probably running around the house and full of sass!

A metaphor makes a direct comparison between two unlike things in order to highlight the one (or so) shared quality between those two things. A metaphor outright “calls” or “labels” that one thing as another thing: the heart is gold or stone; the child is a firecracker.

While a metaphor makes a direct comparison—it states that one thing is another thing—a simile makes its comparisons a little less directly by including the words like or as .

• Simile: She’s as fast as a cheetah!
• Metaphor: She’s a cheetah!

• Simile: Their relationship was like a tornado.
• Metaphor: Their relationship was a tornado.

Sometimes you might prefer the directness of a metaphor; other times a simile will carry your meaning more effectively. Some comparisons just work better as similes than metaphors and vice versa. Whatever works for your specific situation, metaphors and similes can bring creativity and intensity to your words and writing style.

There are plenty of reasons to use metaphors in your work!

1. To Add Creativity

Writers want to express ideas creatively. They want to draw readers into experiences or emotions. They want to describe characters or scenes or events with originality to keep their readers engaged.

Sometimes, literal language just isn’t enough to get those jobs done. Or, maybe it can, but metaphor can do it better, with more intensity and vibrancy.

In Lucille Clifton’s poem “Miss Rosie,” the speaker, frustrated and angry by what Miss Rosie has become, calls her “you wet-brown bag of a woman.” I suppose the speaker could have said “Miss Rosie—you are useless” and still conveyed anger, but I doubt I would remember it. It’s kind of hard to forget that creative “wet-brown-bag” comparison.

2. To Bring Emotional Intensity

What statement conveys more feeling?

• I love you very much.
• My love for you is a raging fire.

Okay, perhaps my metaphor example is corny. But it is also more intense. Raging fire emphasizes the passion and heat and “out-of-controlness” that comes with being in love. It easily out-intensifies very much.

3. To Use the Power of Imagery

Each of the examples of metaphor used so far in this post have probably activated your senses. You can picture and perhaps even feel that cold heart of stone, or the pure, shining beauty of the heart of gold . You might have felt the heat of the fire and pictured its wild, red-hot flames.

4. To Provoke Thought

The meaning of a metaphor isn’t always glaringly obvious. You might have had to stop and think about the characteristics of a wet, brown bag before you could understand the speaker’s accusation in “Miss Rosie.” Once you stop and think, though, you can see the layers of meaning. A wet brown bag was once useful, but is now mushy, musty waste that’s good for nothing.

5. To Create Atmosphere

Sometimes, the sensory images or emotions evoked through metaphor can help set an atmosphere or mood for a scene or event, drawing audiences more deeply into the experience.

• The wedding was a fairytale.

The metaphor makes it easy to image a picture-perfect, enchanting celebration, full of happily-ever-after vibes.

• I finally found escape in the abandoned barn. The torrential rain was rapid machine-gun fire echoing threats of my destruction.

The metaphor adds to the danger of this moment. Not only has the person had to escape, but even the sound of the rain itself perpetuates the feeling that the character is under attack.

So far, the metaphors you’ve seen in this post have been standard metaphors . Standard metaphors simply make that direct comparison between two unlike things:

• Traffic was a beast today.
• That baby is a treasure!

However, standard is not the only type of metaphor. Here are some others:

Implied Metaphor

She hissed her warning— “Keep your mouth shut or I’ll shut it for you.”

In this case, no snake is mentioned, but the “hiss” implies the comparison of “she” to that dangerous, threatening creature.

Visual Metaphor

Visual metaphors show, rather than directly state, the comparison.

Does anyone remember the once-popular ad campaign that showed someone in a kitchen holding an egg and saying “this is your brain.” Then, the person cracked the egg into a hot pan, and as we watched that egg sizzle, said “This is your brain on drugs.”

Instead of directly saying, “drug use makes your brain a fried egg,” the campaign made a visual comparison.

Extended Metaphor

This term really defines itself! An extended metaphor is one that continues over multiple lines or stanzas of poetry, or sentences or paragraphs or segments of prose. Emily Dickinson’s poem “Hope is the Thing with Feathers'' is an example.

Dead Metaphor

A dead metaphor is one whose meaning, due to frequent use and/or the passage of time, has shifted or just lost its metaphorical power and become rather boring or cliche.

For example, some metaphors I’ve used in this post could be considered dead.

Heart of gold and heart of stone ; love is a raging fire— these are metaphors that have lost some of their luster, maybe even prompt an eye roll, though we still understand their meanings.

If we call someone a laughing-stock, we mean the person is a fool, a joke, an embarrassment. But many who use the metaphor probably don’t know its likely origin, going back to the 1500s, when people were publicly punished and ridiculed by having their ankles and wrists locked into holes between two sliding boards—a contraption called “stocks.”

Thankfully, we don’t use that form of punishment anymore, but we have kept the metaphor.

A mixed metaphor is a mistake. It occurs when a person combines elements of two unrelated metaphors to confusing, and often humorous, effect.

For example, we might call a person who is emotionally strong a tough cookie, which is itself an interesting (possibly dead) metaphor. What qualities does a cookie share with a strong person? I can’t find an origin story, but I’ll assume that it refers to a cookie that perhaps required a bit of effort to bite into.

If you say someone is not the sharpest knife in the drawer, you’re saying that they aren’t too smart. This metaphor’s meaning is easier to discern as “sharp” or “keen” are synonyms for “smart.”

But if you say a person is “not the toughest cookie in the drawer” you’ve just mixed your metaphors, and haven't really said much of anything—other than perhaps you need to “sharpen” yourself!

Don’t force metaphors or try too hard to sound “poetic.” Sometimes, the desire to be creative can lead you to produce overdone, overwrought, or overly complex metaphors. Remember, you want the metaphor to enhance the readers’ experience, not leave them frustrated and confused.

Think with your senses. Metaphors can create or deepen your work’s sensory effect. What metaphors can you use to intensify the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, or touch of your work?

Don’t overwhelm your work— especially prose—with metaphors. Metaphors are powerful figures of speech, but that doesn’t mean they should fill every line of your speech or text. Use metaphors thoughtfully and strategically in order to maintain their power and effect.

Be original. Avoid the cliches and stay away from often used images. For example, there are already plenty of love-compared-to-roses and snow-compared-to-blankets metaphors.

You might have to do some brainstorming. The first ideas that come to mind might be obvious because they’re common. Keep thinking. Check out ProWritingAid’s Clichés Report to look for these exhausted figures of speech. Then you can try to freshen them up with a new, creative metaphor!

Sign up for a free account and try it for yourself.

Now that we know what a metaphor is, let’s take a closer look at some examples of metaphors at work in the real world.

Metaphor Examples from Literature

“The sun was a toddler insistently refusing to go to bed: It was past eight thirty and still light.”— Fault in Our Stars , John Green

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”— As You Like It , William Shakespeare

“Her mouth was a fountain of delight.”— The Storm , Kate Chopin

“Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.”— Mother to Son , Langston Hughes (the entire poem is an example of an extended metaphor)

“I’m a riddle in nine syllables”— Metaphors , Sylvia Plath (each line of the poem is a different metaphor, but the metaphors are all describing one thing.

“But, soft! What light through yonder window breaks? / It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.”— Romeo and Juliet , William Shakespeare

“The frosted wedding cake of the ceiling”— The Great Gatsby , F. Scott Fitzgerald

“Behind him, sitting on piles of scrap and rubble, was the blue kite. My key to Baba’s heart.”— The Kite Runner , Khaled Hosseini

“This blood is a map of the road between us.”— Tear , Linda Hogan

“In her hands, I always became the pawn. I could only run away. And she was the queen, able to move in all directions, relentless in her pursuit, always able to find my weakest spots.”— The Joy Luck Club , Amy Tan

Metaphor Examples from Music

“Life is a highway / I wanna ride it all night long”—Tom Cochrane

“Baby you’re a firework!”—Katy Perry, Ester Dean, Stargate, Sandy Vee

“You are the thunder and I am the lightning”—Selena Gomez, Antonina Armato, Tim James, Devrim Karaoglu

“Love is a temple, Love a higher law”—U2

“You are the sunshine of my life”—Stevie Wonder

Metaphor Examples from Speeches or Famous Quotes

“I assume unhesitatingly the leadership of this great army of our people dedicated to a disciplined attack upon our common problems.”—Franklin D. Roosevelt, First Inaugural Address

"All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree.”—Albert Einstein

“If this virus were a physical assailant, an unexpected and invisible mugger, which I can tell you from personal experience it is, then this is the moment we have begun together to wrestle it to the floor.”— Boris Johson qtd. in the Guardian

“But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation.”— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , “I Have A Dream”

“What’s that got to do with women’s rights or negroes’ rights? If my cup won’t hold but a pint, and yours holds a quart, wouldn’t you be mean not to let me have my little half measure full?”— Sojourner Truth , “Ain’t I a Woman?”

Metaphor Examples from Advertising

• Budweiser is the “king” of beers
• Chevrolet is the “heartbeat” of America
• Exxon Oil used to tell drivers: “put a tiger in your tank!”

In her article “ The Words that Help Us Understand the World, ” Helene Schumacher says that metaphors “can explain complex concepts we may not be familiar with, help us to connect with each other, and can even shape our thought processes. They help us better understand our world.”

Author James Geary, quoted in the article, says “The only way we have of learning something new is by comparing it to something we already know.”

Metaphors bring to light something we had not perhaps considered or recognized. That something may be a depth of emotion, an insight. Whatever that “something” is, the metaphor delivers it in a unique, stirring way not matched by literal words alone.

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Allison Bressmer

Allison Bressmer is a professor of freshman composition and critical reading at a community college and a freelance writer. If she isn’t writing or teaching, you’ll likely find her reading a book or listening to a podcast while happily sipping a semi-sweet iced tea or happy-houring with friends. She lives in New York with her family. Connect at linkedin.com/in/allisonbressmer.

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26 Metaphors for Essays: Crafting Literary Masterpieces

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Welcome to the realm of literary expression, where words transcend their literal meanings. In the intricate dance of language , metaphors emerge as poetic devices, breathing life into essays. This guide delves deep into the art of crafting essays with 26 metaphors, unraveling the tapestry of creativity and linguistic elegance.

26 Metaphors for Essays

• The Essay as a Journey : Navigating through the pages is like embarking on a literary expedition, each paragraph a step forward in exploration.
• Words as Building Blocks: Just as a builder meticulously selects bricks, the writer chooses words to construct the foundation of their essay.
• Essays as Time Capsules of Thought: Imagine essays as sealed capsules, preserving and encapsulating the essence of thoughts for future revelation.
• The Pen as a Sword: In the hands of a skilled writer, the pen transforms into a mighty sword, carving narratives that leave a lasting impact.
• The Canvas of Ideas: Essays are blank canvases awaiting the strokes of creativity, each idea a vibrant color adding depth to the masterpiece.
• The Musical Composition of Sentences: Sentences harmonize like musical notes, with metaphors as the chords that create a symphony of literary brilliance.
• Metaphors as Sparks of Imagination: Like sparks that ignite a fire, metaphors fuel the flames of imagination, turning the mundane into the extraordinary.
• Weaving Metaphors in the Fabric of Expression: Writers, akin to skilled weavers, interlace metaphors into the very fabric of their expression, creating textured narratives.
• The Alchemy of Creativity in Writing: Metaphors, like alchemists’ potions, possess the transformative power to turn ordinary words into literary gold.
• Essays as Gardens of Ideas: Cultivating ideas in essays is akin to tending a garden, with each thought blooming like a unique, vibrant flower.
• The Essayist as an Architect: Just as an architect plans a structure, essayists carefully design their compositions, selecting metaphors as architectural embellishments.
• Metaphors as Bridges: In the vast landscape of ideas, metaphors act as bridges, connecting the reader to the writer’s thoughts seamlessly.
• The Essayist as a Sculptor: Sculpting words, essayists chisel away the unnecessary, revealing the masterpiece within, with metaphors adding intricate details.
• The Essay as a Puzzle: Each paragraph in an essay is a puzzle piece, and metaphors are the connectors that bring coherence to the overall picture.
• Metaphors as Light in Darkness: Just as a beam of light dispels darkness, metaphors illuminate essays, revealing hidden nuances and depths.
• Essays as Culinary Delights: Crafting an essay is like preparing a culinary masterpiece, with metaphors as the seasonings that enhance the flavor.
• The Essay as a Conversation: Essays engage in a dialogue with readers, and metaphors serve as eloquent conversationalists, making the exchange more dynamic.
• Metaphors as Windows: They open windows to new perspectives, allowing readers to view familiar concepts in refreshing and insightful ways.
• The Essay as a Symphony: Like a symphony, essays require harmony, and metaphors contribute the musicality that resonates with the reader.
• Essays as Mirrors: Reflecting thoughts and ideas, essays are mirrors that reveal the depth of the writer’s insights, with metaphors as the silver lining.
• The Essayist as a Gardener of Ideas: Just as a gardener tends to plants, essayists nurture ideas, with metaphors acting as the fertilizer that promotes growth.
• Metaphors as Spice in Writing: Essays become literary dishes, and metaphors are the spices that infuse the writing with zest and vibrancy.
• Essays as Constellations: Like stars in a constellation, each idea in an essay forms a unique pattern, with metaphors connecting them into a meaningful whole.
• The Essayist as a Tour Guide: In the journey of an essay, the writer is a guide, and metaphors are the landmarks that make the experience memorable.
• Metaphors as Puzzle Pieces: Each metaphor fits into the essay like a puzzle piece, contributing to the overall coherence and completeness.
• The Essay as a Tapestry: Woven with threads of ideas, an essay is a tapestry, and metaphors add intricate patterns that make it visually and intellectually appealing.

These metaphors provide imaginative ways to conceptualize the art of essay writing.

Words as Building Blocks

In the intricate process of crafting an essay, words serve as the foundational building blocks, carefully selected to construct a robust structure that conveys the intended message. This metaphor emphasizes the importance of precision and thoughtfulness in word choice.

When to Use:

• Formal Context: In academic or professional essays where clarity and precision are paramount.
• Informal Context: When sharing personal reflections or experiences in a blog post.

Example: Formal Context: “In scholarly endeavors, each word acts as a building block, contributing to the solid foundation of academic discourse.”

Informal Context: “As I penned down my thoughts, I realized how each word became a building block, shaping the narrative of my personal journey.”

Variations:

• Colleague Interaction: “In our collaborative report, let’s ensure every word functions as a building block for a cohesive document.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your storytelling is fantastic! Each word feels like a building block, constructing a vivid picture in my mind .”

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Enhances clarity, strengthens the essay’s structure.
• Cons: Risk of overthinking word choice; may slow down the writing process.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that each word used aligns with the overall tone and purpose of the essay, maintaining consistency and coherence.

Definition: The metaphor “words as building blocks” underscores the foundational role of individual words in constructing a well-organized and impactful essay.

• Consider the connotation and nuance of each word.
• Use a diverse vocabulary to add richness to the essay.

Essays as Time Capsules of Thought

As we delve into the realm of essay writing, envisioning essays as time capsules offers a poignant perspective. Each essay becomes a vessel, encapsulating and preserving the essence of thoughts, ideas, and perspectives for future revelations.

• Formal Context: Reflecting on the historical significance or evolution of ideas.
• Informal Context: Sharing personal reflections on life experiences.

Example: Formal Context: “In academic writing, essays act as time capsules, capturing the intellectual evolution of concepts over the years.”

Informal Context: “As I penned my reflections on the past year, I realized my journal entries serve as time capsules, preserving my thoughts and emotions.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Your thesis is a time capsule, showcasing the evolution of your research journey.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your travel essay reads like a time capsule, vividly preserving the essence of your adventures.”
• Pros: Adds depth and significance to the essay; offers a reflective element.
• Cons: May require a thoughtful selection of ideas for preservation.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure the ideas encapsulated in the essay align with the overall theme and purpose, maintaining coherence.

Definition: The metaphor “essays as time capsules” highlights the role of essays in preserving and encapsulating thoughts and ideas for future reference.

• Clearly define the time frame or context within which the ideas are encapsulated.
• Use vivid language to enhance the time-capsule imagery.

The Pen as a Sword

In the arsenal of writing metaphors, the imagery of the pen as a sword captures the transformative power wielded by skilled writers. Every stroke becomes a strategic move, carving narratives with precision and leaving a lasting impact on readers.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the persuasive and influential nature of academic or professional writing.
• Informal Context: Crafting compelling narratives in personal essays or storytelling.

Example: Formal Context: “In legal discourse, the pen is indeed a sword, capable of shaping and reshaping the boundaries of jurisprudence.”

Informal Context: “As I penned my travel memoir, I felt the pen transform into a sword, carving tales of adventure and exploration.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s approach this proposal as if the pen is a sword, crafting a persuasive argument.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your creative writing is a sword, cutting through ordinary narratives with a unique edge.”
• Pros: Emphasizes the impact of words; encourages powerful and persuasive writing.
• Cons: Requires a nuanced approach to avoid excessive or inappropriate use.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that the metaphor aligns with the tone and objective of the writing, maintaining professionalism and impact.

Definition: The metaphor “the pen as a sword” symbolizes the influential and transformative power of words, likening them to a weapon in the hands of a skilled writer.

• Use this metaphor judiciously to highlight key points or arguments.
• Consider the ethical implications of wielding the “pen-sword.”

The Canvas of Ideas

In the realm of essay writing, viewing essays as blank canvases awaiting strokes of creativity emphasizes the unlimited potential for expression. Each idea is a vibrant color, contributing to the masterpiece being painted with words.

• Formal Context: Encouraging creativity in academic writing, particularly in subjects where innovative ideas are valued.
• Informal Context: Expressing personal thoughts, feelings, or reflections with a creative flair.

Example: Formal Context: “In scientific research, essays serve as canvases, allowing researchers to paint groundbreaking ideas that challenge existing paradigms.”

Informal Context: “My personal essay on resilience became a canvas of ideas, each paragraph a stroke depicting my journey through challenges.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Approach your thesis as a canvas, where each idea contributes to the overall masterpiece.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your essay on friendship is a vibrant canvas, portraying the beauty of companionship.”
• Pros: Fosters creativity; encourages a fresh and innovative approach to writing.
• Cons: Requires a balance to prevent excessive embellishment that might dilute the message.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that the metaphor aligns with the overall purpose of the essay, maintaining coherence and relevance.

Definition: The metaphor “the canvas of ideas” illustrates the creative and expressive nature of essays, likening them to a blank canvas waiting to be adorned.

• Encourage experimentation with ideas, allowing for a diverse and colorful essay.
• Use vivid language to enhance the imagery of the canvas.

The Musical Composition of Sentences

In the symphony of essay writing, sentences harmonize like musical notes, and metaphors act as the chords that create a melodious and captivating composition. This metaphor highlights the rhythmic flow and cadence that metaphors contribute to the overall structure of an essay.

• Formal Context: Enhancing the eloquence of academic writing, particularly in literature or humanities disciplines.
• Informal Context: Infusing storytelling with a rhythmic and musical quality, making the narrative more engaging.

Example: Formal Context: “In literary analysis, consider each sentence as a musical note, and metaphors as the chords that elevate the entire composition.”

Informal Context: “As I crafted my personal essay, I aimed for a musical composition of sentences, where metaphors acted as harmonious chords guiding the reader through the narrative.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s approach the introduction like a musical composition, where each sentence sets the tone for the entire essay.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your storytelling reads like a musical composition, with metaphors serving as delightful harmonies.”
• Pros: Enhances the rhythm and flow of writing; adds a lyrical quality to the essay.
• Cons: Requires careful consideration to maintain coherence and prevent overuse.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that the musical metaphor aligns with the overall tone and theme of the essay, creating a harmonious blend.

Definition: The metaphor “the musical composition of sentences” evokes the rhythmic and harmonious quality of well-crafted sentences in essay writing.

• Pay attention to sentence structure and variety to create a musical rhythm.
• Experiment with pacing, using metaphors strategically to enhance the cadence.

Metaphors as Sparks of Imagination

Unlocking the door to creativity, metaphors serve as sparks that ignite the flames of imagination in the essay-writing process. This metaphor emphasizes the transformative power of metaphors in turning mundane concepts into vivid and imaginative expressions.

• Formal Context: Encouraging imaginative thinking in academic or technical writing, especially in fields where creativity is valued.
• Informal Context: Adding a touch of flair to personal narratives or creative non-fiction.

Example: Formal Context: “In scientific discourse, metaphors act as sparks, igniting new perspectives and fostering innovative approaches to complex problems.”

Informal Context: “As I delved into my reflective essay, I realized how metaphors served as sparks, transforming ordinary memories into vivid and imaginative stories.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Think of metaphors as sparks in your thesis, infusing your research with imaginative and innovative thinking.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your metaphors are sparks of creativity, turning a simple story into a captivating adventure.”
• Pros: Stimulates creative thinking; adds a dynamic and engaging element to writing.
• Cons: Requires a balance to prevent excessive metaphorical embellishment.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that the metaphor aligns with the context and purpose of the essay, sparking imagination without veering off-topic.

Definition: The metaphor “metaphors as sparks of imagination” emphasizes the role of metaphors in sparking creative thinking and imaginative expression in essays.

• Experiment with unexpected metaphors to surprise and engage the reader.
• Use metaphors strategically to convey abstract concepts in a concrete and imaginative manner.

Weaving Metaphors in the Fabric of Expression

Imagine the act of essay writing as a textile art, where writers weave metaphors into the very fabric of their expression. This metaphor underscores the intricate and deliberate nature of incorporating metaphors seamlessly into the narrative.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the artistry of language in academic or professional writing, particularly in literature or arts-related subjects.
• Informal Context: Conveying personal stories with a rich tapestry of metaphors, making the narrative more engaging.

Example: Formal Context: “In art history essays, consider metaphors as threads, intricately woven into the fabric of expression, adding depth and nuance to your analysis.”

Informal Context: “As I shared my life experiences in the essay, each metaphor became a thread, weaving through the fabric of expression and creating a vivid tapestry of my journey.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s approach the conclusion like skilled weavers, weaving metaphors into the fabric of expression for a memorable ending.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your metaphors are like threads, weaving through the fabric of your storytelling, creating a colorful and captivating narrative.”
• Pros: Enhances the richness of language; creates a visually appealing and immersive experience for the reader.
• Cons: Requires careful consideration to maintain coherence and prevent metaphorical overload.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors are seamlessly integrated into the overall narrative, contributing to the fabric of expression without overshadowing the main message.

Definition: The metaphor “weaving metaphors in the fabric of expression” portrays essay writing as a deliberate and artistic process where metaphors are integral to the overall composition.

• Use metaphors strategically to emphasize key points and evoke emotions.
• Ensure the metaphorical threads align with the thematic focus of the essay.

The Alchemy of Creativity in Writing

In the enchanting world of essay writing, metaphors act as alchemists’ potions, possessing the transformative power to turn ordinary words into literary gold. This metaphor emphasizes the magical and elevating quality that metaphors bring to the craft of writing.

• Formal Context: Encouraging creative thinking and expression in academic or professional essays, especially in disciplines that value originality.
• Informal Context: Elevating personal narratives or creative non-fiction with a touch of literary alchemy.

Example: Formal Context: “In philosophical discourse, metaphors act as alchemists, transmuting abstract concepts into literary gold, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.”

Informal Context: “As I explored my emotions in the essay, metaphors worked like alchemy, turning ordinary feelings into a golden tapestry of introspection.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Think of metaphors as your writing alchemy, transforming ordinary ideas into literary treasures in your dissertation.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your metaphors are like alchemy, turning everyday stories into captivating narratives with a touch of magic.”
• Pros: Elevates writing to a higher level; adds a touch of magic and allure to the narrative.
• Cons: Requires careful selection to avoid overuse and maintain authenticity.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors align with the overall tone and purpose of the essay, contributing to the alchemy of creativity without becoming distracting.

Definition: The metaphor “the alchemy of creativity in writing” illustrates the transformative power of metaphors, turning ordinary words into literary gold in the process of essay crafting.

• Experiment with unconventional metaphors to infuse a sense of magic and wonder into the writing.
• Use metaphors sparingly to maintain their enchanting impact.

Essays as Gardens of Ideas

Embark with me on the metaphorical journey where essays are likened to gardens, and ideas flourish like vibrant flowers, adding color, depth, and fragrance to the narrative. This metaphor emphasizes the nurturing aspect of essay writing, where writers carefully cultivate and present a diverse array of ideas.

• Formal Context: Encouraging a comprehensive exploration of ideas in academic writing, especially in subjects that require depth and diversity of thought.
• Informal Context: Crafting personal essays that showcase a rich tapestry of thoughts and reflections.

Example: Formal Context: “In sociological essays, think of ideas as blossoming flowers, each representing a unique perspective contributing to the overall garden of knowledge.”

Informal Context: “My reflective essay on personal growth became a garden of ideas, where each paragraph bloomed like a distinct flower, revealing a different facet of my journey.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s approach this research paper like gardeners, nurturing diverse ideas that collectively enrich the overall narrative.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your essay is like a garden of ideas, with each thought blooming into a beautiful flower, creating a captivating bouquet of storytelling.”
• Pros: Encourages a holistic exploration of ideas; adds depth and diversity to the essay.
• Cons: Requires careful organization to ensure each idea contributes cohesively to the overall narrative.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that each idea is carefully cultivated and presented, contributing meaningfully to the overarching theme of the essay.

Definition: The metaphor “essays as gardens of ideas” conveys the nurturing and diverse nature of ideas in the essay-writing process, akin to tending to a garden.

• Cultivate a variety of ideas to create a rich and engaging narrative.
• Ensure a balance between depth and breadth in exploring different perspectives.

The Essayist as an Architect

Picture the essayist as an architect, meticulously planning the structure of an essay, with metaphors acting as architectural embellishments that enhance the overall design. This metaphor underscores the importance of thoughtful composition and strategic use of metaphors in crafting compelling essays.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the strategic organization of ideas in academic or professional essays, especially in disciplines where structure is crucial.
• Informal Context: Applying a deliberate and structured approach to storytelling in personal essays.

Example: Formal Context: “In business essays, consider each section as a blueprint, and metaphors as architectural embellishments that reinforce the solidity of your argument.”

Informal Context: “As I constructed my narrative essay, I approached it like an architect, planning the structure with metaphors as decorative elements, enhancing the overall design.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Approach your dissertation like an architect, with each chapter as a carefully planned structure, and metaphors as essential design elements.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your essay is like a well-designed building, with metaphors serving as architectural details that make the storytelling more compelling.”
• Pros: Enhances the organization and coherence of the essay; adds a visual and structural dimension to the writing.
• Cons: Requires careful planning to ensure metaphors align with the overall structure and theme.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors contribute to the architectural integrity of the essay, reinforcing the structure without overshadowing the core message.

Definition: The metaphor “the essayist as an architect” paints a vivid picture of the deliberate planning and structured approach to essay writing, with metaphors as integral architectural elements.

• Plan the essay structure carefully, assigning specific roles to different sections.
• Use metaphors strategically to reinforce key points and contribute to the overall coherence.

Metaphors as Bridges

Imagine the vast landscape of ideas in an essay as a series of islands, and metaphors as bridges that seamlessly connect these intellectual realms. This metaphor highlights the role of metaphors in creating smooth transitions between different concepts, ensuring a cohesive and engaging journey for the reader.

• Formal Context: Facilitating the logical progression of ideas in academic writing, especially in essays that explore diverse topics.
• Informal Context: Connecting personal anecdotes or reflections in a way that feels natural and effortless.

Example: Formal Context: “In political science essays, think of metaphors as bridges, linking theories and real-world applications to create a cohesive and insightful narrative.”

Informal Context: “As I shared my travel experiences, metaphors acted as bridges, seamlessly connecting one destination to another, creating a fluid and captivating storytelling experience.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s treat each section of our report as an island, and use metaphors as bridges to connect the ideas, ensuring a smooth transition between concepts.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your essay feels like a journey with metaphors serving as bridges, linking different aspects of your story in a way that flows naturally.”
• Pros: Enhances the flow of ideas; ensures a seamless transition between different sections.
• Cons: Requires thoughtful selection to maintain coherence and avoid abrupt shifts.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors serve as effective bridges, guiding the reader from one idea to the next without causing confusion or disconnection.

Definition: The metaphor “metaphors as bridges” emphasizes the role of metaphors in creating connections and maintaining a smooth flow of ideas in an essay.

• Use metaphors strategically at key transition points to guide the reader through the essay.
• Ensure that each metaphorical bridge enhances the overall coherence and narrative progression.

The Essayist as a Sculptor

Envision the essayist as a sculptor, shaping words and ideas with precision, and metaphors as intricate details that add depth and nuance to the crafted piece. This metaphor emphasizes the deliberate and artistic nature of essay writing, where every word contributes to the overall composition.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the meticulous crafting of arguments and analysis in academic essays, particularly in disciplines that value precision.
• Informal Context: Adding an artistic flair to personal essays, where the narrative is shaped with care and intention.

Example: Formal Context: “In literary analysis, view metaphors as the sculptor’s chisel, carving out layers of meaning and interpretation with precision.”

Informal Context: “As I penned my reflective essay, I approached it like a sculptor, molding my experiences with metaphors as intricate details, shaping the narrative with care.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Consider each paragraph as a piece of marble, and metaphors as the sculptor’s tools that refine and enhance the overall structure of your thesis.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your essay is like a sculpture, with metaphors as the detailed carvings that make the storytelling more vivid and impactful.”
• Pros: Elevates the writing to an artistic level; adds precision and depth to the overall composition.
• Cons: Requires careful consideration to avoid excessive ornamentation.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors act as sculptor’s tools, enhancing the clarity and impact of the essay without overshadowing the main message.

Definition: The metaphor “the essayist as a sculptor” conveys the intentional and artistic approach to essay writing, where metaphors serve as tools for refinement and precision.

• Approach each paragraph with the intention of sculpting a clear and impactful narrative.
• Use metaphors sparingly to maintain the overall focus and coherence of the essay.

The Essay as a Symphony

Envision the essay as a symphony, where each paragraph contributes a unique note, and metaphors act as harmonious chords that resonate throughout the composition. This metaphor underscores the rhythmic and coordinated nature of a well-structured essay, where metaphors play a vital role in creating a harmonious narrative.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the orchestration of ideas in academic essays, particularly in subjects that require a cohesive and interconnected argument.
• Informal Context: Crafting personal essays with a rhythmic flow, where each metaphor contributes to the overall harmony of the narrative.

Example: Formal Context: “In historical essays, metaphors function as chords, weaving through each paragraph and creating a symphony of interconnected ideas that resonate with the reader.”

Informal Context: “As I shared my life story in the essay, I aimed for a symphony of emotions, where metaphors acted as chords, adding depth and resonance to my narrative.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s approach the conclusion as the grand finale of our symphony, using metaphors as chords to create a lasting impression on our readers.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your essay reads like a symphony, with metaphors serving as harmonious chords that make the storytelling captivating and memorable.”
• Pros: Enhances the overall rhythm and coherence of the essay; creates a memorable and engaging reading experience.
• Cons: Requires careful selection to maintain thematic unity and prevent discordant notes.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors contribute to the symphonic nature of the essay, creating a cohesive and well-orchestrated composition.

Definition: The metaphor “the essay as a symphony” conveys the coordinated and rhythmic nature of a well-structured essay, where metaphors function as harmonious chords.

• Use metaphors strategically to emphasize key themes and create a sense of unity.
• Consider the pacing and placement of metaphors to enhance the overall symphonic experience.

The Essayist as a Navigator

Picture the essayist as a navigator, steering through the vast sea of ideas with precision, and metaphors as navigational tools that guide readers through the intellectual journey. This metaphor emphasizes the strategic use of metaphors to ensure clarity and coherence in the exploration of complex topics.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the logical progression and navigation of ideas in academic essays, especially in disciplines that require a clear and structured argument.
• Informal Context: Creating personal essays where metaphors act as guiding lights, making the narrative accessible and engaging.

Example: Formal Context: “In scientific essays, metaphors function as navigational tools, guiding readers through the intricate concepts and ensuring a clear understanding of the research.”

Informal Context: “As I delved into philosophical reflections, I saw myself as a navigator, using metaphors as guiding stars to lead readers through the complexities of my thoughts.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Treat your literature review as a navigational map, and use metaphors as tools to guide your readers through the diverse scholarly perspectives.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your essay is like a journey with you as the navigator, and metaphors as compass points that make the exploration both insightful and enjoyable.”
• Pros: Enhances the clarity and accessibility of complex ideas; guides readers through a well-structured intellectual journey.
• Cons: Requires thoughtful selection to avoid confusion and maintain the logical flow.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors function as effective navigational tools, aiding readers in understanding the progression of ideas in the essay.

Definition: The metaphor “the essayist as a navigator” portrays the intentional and strategic role of metaphors in guiding readers through the intellectual landscape of an essay.

• Use metaphors to introduce and connect key concepts in a way that aids understanding.
• Ensure that each metaphor aligns with the overall theme and purpose of the essay.

The Essay as a Kaleidoscope

Imagine the essay as a kaleidoscope, where ideas and perspectives shift and blend, creating a vibrant and ever-changing pattern. Metaphors, in this context, serve as the colorful elements that contribute to the kaleidoscopic richness of the narrative.

• Formal Context: Emphasizing the diversity of perspectives and ideas in academic writing, particularly in subjects that encourage varied viewpoints.
• Informal Context: Crafting personal essays with a dynamic and ever-evolving exploration of experiences and reflections.

Example: Formal Context: “In cultural studies essays, metaphors function as elements in a kaleidoscope, allowing readers to see the same topic from different angles, creating a nuanced and comprehensive understanding.”

Informal Context: “As I shared my personal journey, I envisioned my essay as a kaleidoscope, with each metaphor adding a burst of color, shaping the ever-shifting pattern of my experiences.”

• Colleague Collaboration: “Let’s approach this interdisciplinary essay as a kaleidoscope, where each section contributes a unique perspective, and metaphors act as the vibrant elements that tie everything together.”
• Friend’s Response: “Your storytelling is like a kaleidoscope, with metaphors adding diverse hues to the narrative, creating a rich and captivating tapestry.”
• Pros: Adds richness and diversity to the narrative; encourages readers to appreciate multiple facets of a topic.
• Cons: Requires careful organization to prevent the essay from becoming disjointed.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors contribute to the kaleidoscopic nature of the essay, enhancing the overall vibrancy and diversity of perspectives.

Definition: The metaphor “the essay as a kaleidoscope” portrays the dynamic and ever-changing nature of ideas and perspectives, with metaphors as key elements that contribute to the kaleidoscopic richness.

• Use metaphors strategically to explore different aspects of a topic.
• Ensure a cohesive and well-structured essay, even as perspectives shift and evolve.

The Essayist as a Gardener of Thought

Visualize the essayist as a gardener, tending to the seeds of thoughts and ideas with care, and metaphors as the nutrients that enrich the intellectual soil. This metaphor emphasizes the nurturing aspect of essay writing, where metaphors play a vital role in cultivating a fertile ground for insightful discussions.

• Formal Context: Encouraging the development and growth of ideas in academic writing, particularly in essays that require in-depth exploration.
• Informal Context: Crafting personal essays with a focus on the careful cultivation of thoughts and reflections.

Example: Formal Context: “In psychological essays, metaphors serve as nutrients for the intellectual garden, fostering the growth of theories and facilitating a deeper understanding of complex concepts.”

Informal Context: “As I explored my personal beliefs, I saw myself as a gardener of thoughts, using metaphors as nutrients to cultivate a rich and flourishing landscape of ideas.”

• Mentor-Mentee Discussion: “Approach your thesis as a garden of thoughts, and let metaphors act as the nutrients that enhance the intellectual richness of your research.”
• Friend’s Feedback: “Your essay feels like a carefully tended garden, with metaphors serving as nutrients that make the ideas flourish and bloom.”
• Pros: Fosters the growth and development of ideas; contributes to a nuanced and well-explored narrative.
• Cons: Requires thoughtful selection to ensure metaphors align with the overall theme and purpose.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Ensure that metaphors act as effective nutrients, enhancing the intellectual soil and contributing to the overall richness of the essay.

Definition: The metaphor “the essayist as a gardener of thought” conveys the intentional and nurturing approach to essay writing, where metaphors play a vital role in fostering the growth of insightful ideas.

• Use metaphors strategically to enrich the intellectual landscape of the essay.
• Ensure a balanced and well-nurtured exploration of ideas, even as metaphors contribute to their growth.

How do metaphors enhance essays?

Metaphors elevate essays by adding depth and vividness, making abstract concepts relatable and engaging.

• Use metaphors when you want to evoke emotions and create a lasting impression.
• Employ metaphors in descriptive and narrative writing to paint vivid pictures for your readers.

Example: “Incorporating metaphors in your essay enhances the overall reading experience, transforming abstract concepts into tangible images that resonate with your audience.”

Tip: “Experiment with various metaphors to find the ones that best convey your intended message. Consider the emotions and images each metaphor evokes.”

Can I use metaphors in academic essays?

Absolutely! Thoughtful use of metaphors can enhance the clarity and impact of academic writing.

• Introduce metaphors sparingly in academic essays to emphasize key points.
• Ensure that the metaphor aligns with the formal tone of academic writing and enhances understanding.

Example: “While maintaining academic rigor, strategic use of metaphors can elucidate complex theories and captivate the reader’s attention in your research paper.”

Tip: “Avoid clichéd metaphors in academic writing. Instead, opt for metaphors that bring fresh perspectives to your subject matter.”

Are clichéd metaphors a red flag?

While clichés should be used sparingly, a well-placed familiar metaphor can effectively convey ideas.

How to choose the right metaphor?

Consider your message and audience; choose metaphors that resonate and enhance your intended meaning.

Can metaphors be humorous in essays?

Certainly! Humorous metaphors inject personality into your writing, making it more enjoyable for readers.

Do metaphors work in technical writing?

Yes, when used judiciously. Metaphors can simplify complex ideas, aiding understanding in technical writing.

In conclusion, the arsenal of metaphors is a potent tool for crafting essays that linger in the minds of readers. This guide has unveiled the artistry of metaphorical expression, encouraging writers to embrace creativity and wield metaphors with finesse. As you embark on your essay-writing journey, remember the transformative power of metaphors in shaping literary masterpieces.

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• What Is a Metaphor? | Definition & Examples

What Is a Metaphor? | Definition & Examples

Published on August 11, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan . Revised on November 6, 2023.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that implicitly compares two unrelated things, typically by stating that one thing is another (e.g., “that chef is a magician”).

Metaphors can be used to create vivid imagery, exaggerate a characteristic or action, or express a complex idea.

Metaphors are commonly used in literature, advertising, and everyday speech.

The exam was a piece of cake.

This town is a desert .

Table of contents

What is a metaphor, types of metaphor, metaphor vs. simile, metaphor vs. analogy, allegory vs. metaphor, worksheet: metaphor vs. simile, frequently asked questions.

A metaphor is a rhetorical device that makes a non-literal comparison between two unlike things. Metaphors are used to describe an object or action by stating (or implying) that it is something else (e.g., “knowledge is a butterfly”).

Metaphors typically have two parts:

• A tenor is the thing or idea that the metaphor describes (e.g., “knowledge”).
• A vehicle is the thing or idea used to describe the tenor (e.g., “a butterfly”).

Sophia was a loose cannon .

There are several different types of metaphor.

Direct metaphor

A direct metaphor compares two unrelated things by explicitly stating that one thing is another. Direct metaphors typically use a form of the verb “be” to connect two things.

Ami and Vera are two peas in a pod.

Implied metaphor

An implied metaphor compares two unlike things without explicitly naming one of them. Instead, a comparison is typically made using a non-literal verb. For example, the statement “the man erupted in anger” uses the verb “erupted” to compare a man to a volcano.

The captain barked orders at the soldiers. [i.e., the captain was like an angry dog]

Extended metaphor

An extended metaphor (also called a sustained metaphor) occurs when an initial comparison is developed or sustained over several lines or paragraphs (or stanzas, in the case of a poem).

Extended metaphors are commonly used in literature and advertising, but they’re rarely used in everyday speech.

And all the men and women merely players.

They have their exits and their entrances,

And one man in his time plays many parts,

Mixed metaphor

A mixed metaphor is a figure of speech that combines two or more metaphors, resulting in a confusing or nonsensical statement.

Mixed metaphors are usually accidental and are often perceived as unintentionally humorous. Mixing metaphors can confuse your readers and make your writing seem to lack coherence.

She’s a rising star, and with the right guidance, she’ll spread her wings.

Dead metaphor

A dead metaphor is a figure of speech that has become so familiar due to repeated use that people no longer recognize it as a metaphor. Instead, it’s understood as having a straightforward meaning.

The guest of honor sat at the head of the table .

Metaphors and similes are both rhetorical devices used for comparison. However, they have different functions:

• A metaphor makes an implicit comparison between two unlike things, usually by saying that one thing is another thing (e.g., “my body is a temple”).
• A simile makes an explicit comparison between two unlike things, typically using the words “like,” “as,” or “than” (e.g., “you’re as stubborn as a mule”).

The old man’s beard was as white as snow .

There are two main types of analogy:

• Identical relationship analogies indicate the logical relationship between two things (e.g., “‘Up’ is to ‘down’ as ‘on’ is to ‘off’”).
• Shared abstraction analogies compare two unlike things to illustrate a point.

Metaphors are sometimes confused with shared abstraction analogies, but they serve different purposes. While metaphors are primarily used to make a comparison (e.g., “John is a caveman”), shared abstraction analogies are used to make an argument or explain something.

Metaphors are sometimes confused with allegories, but they have different functions:

• A metaphor makes an implied comparison between two unlike things, typically by stating that one thing is another (e.g., “time is money”).
• An allegory illustrates abstract concepts, moral principles, or complex ideas through symbolic representation.

Allegories are typically longer than metaphors and usually take the form of a story.

You can test your knowledge of the difference between metaphors and similes with the worksheet below. Choose whether each sentence contains a metaphor or a simile.

• Practice questions
• Answers and explanations
• You sing like an angel.
• The boxer is as strong as an ox.
• Hannah is a warrior.
• Your eyes are deeper than the ocean.
• Most of the time, you’re an angel. But you’re like a demon when you’re tired.
• This sentence contains a simile because it makes a direct comparison using the word “like.”
• This sentence contains a simile because it makes a direct comparison using the word “as.”
• This sentence contains a metaphor because it makes an implicit comparison by saying that something is something else.
• This sentence contains a simile because it makes a direct comparison using the word “than.”
• This sentence contains both a metaphor (“you are an angel”) and a simile (“like a demon”).

An extended metaphor (also called a sustained metaphor ) is a metaphor that is developed over several lines or paragraphs.

The following is an example of an extended metaphor in William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet :

“But soft, what light through yonder window breaks?

It is the East, and Juliet is the sun.

Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon,

Who is already sick and pale with grief

That thou, her maid, art far more fair than she.”

A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a non-literal comparison between two unlike things (typically by saying that something is something else).

For example, the metaphor “you are a clown” is not literal but rather used to emphasize a specific, implied quality (in this case, “foolishness”).

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Metaphor Definition

What is metaphor? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor can be stated explicitly, as in the sentence "Love is a battlefield." Other times, the writer may make this equation between two things implicitly , as in, "He was wounded by love." The comparisons created by metaphor are not meant to be taken literally. Rather, metaphors are figurative —they create meaning beyond the literal meanings of their words. For instance, these examples are, of course, not saying that love is actually a field of battle or that the person actually got a physical injury from love. Instead, they capture how love can be painful, a struggle, even a showdown between opponents, and—as many good metaphors do—through their comparison they make description more vivid, more relatable, or reveal new ways of seeing the world.

Some additional key details about metaphor:

• Metaphor is one of the most common figures of speech , used by writers throughout history and across the world. They are common in everyday speech and all forms of writing, from narrative fiction, to poetry, to persuasive writing.
• Metaphor is a type of analogy : a comparison between two things or ideas. Take a look at the entry that covers analogy to learn more about the difference between analogy and metaphor.
• There are actually two accepted definitions of metaphor: one that's quite broad, and one that's more specific. The broader definition includes any type of comparison or association, and includes under its umbrella other figures of speech, such as simile . The other, more narrow definition is the one we focus on in this entry, and is limited to figures of speech that state one thing is the other.

Metaphor Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce metaphor: met -uh-fore

The Anatomy of a Metaphor

Metaphors can be broken down into two elements: a tenor and a vehicle.

• The tenor is the thing a metaphor describes.
• The vehicle is the thing to which the tenor is compared.

For instance, in the metaphor " Love is a battlefield ," love is the tenor because it's the thing being described, while "battlefield" is the vehicle because it's the thing love is being compared to. The metaphor operates by borrowing key attributes from the vehicle and ascribing them to the tenor: love is violent, brutal, life-threatening.

A strong metaphor is one in which the attributes shared by the vehicle and the tenor are clear without further explanation. For example, "she's a gem" is a widely used metaphor whose meaning would probably be pretty clear even if we hadn't all heard it a thousand times: it's a way of saying someone is precious, treasured, lovely. "He's a peanut butter sandwich," on the other hand, is a pretty mystifying statement, since the vehicle—a peanut butter sandwich?—doesn't immediately call to mind any particularly vivid qualities or adjectives, let alone adjectives that would be used to describe a person. As a result, a weak metaphor such as this one leaves the mind searching for a basis of comparison between the tenor and the vehicle: is he... sticky? Unappetizing? A perfect combination of two things?

Types of Metaphors

There are a handful of varieties of metaphor that fall under the larger umbrella of "metaphor." Here are a few important ones:

• Conventional Metaphors are just what they sound like: metaphors that have become such a common part of speech that they no longer call attention to their status as metaphors. For instance, when we say that someone is an expert in his or her "field," field is a conventional metaphor for "area of study" or "profession," because it's been used so frequently that we don't even realize we're referencing a physical field. Some sources say that when a conventional metaphor has completely lost its "effectiveness" or ability to influence thought, it becomes a Dead Metaphor. The concept of "dead metaphors" is controversial however, because many people argue that simply because something becomes unconscious, doesn't mean it's dead.
• Creative Metaphors, in contrast to conventional metaphors, are novel comparisons that draw attention to their status as metaphors. The following Rita Rudner quote is a creative metaphor: "Before I met my husband, I'd never fallen in love. I'd stepped in it a few times." Rudner, here, is twisting and playing with the metaphor "falling love" to emphasize the fact that it is a metaphor, and then she's creating a new metaphor all her own. (Of course, she's a comedian so she's also doing it to get laughs.)
• Mixed Metaphor is a combination of two or more incongruous comparisons. These can occur accidentally, or a writer may string incompatible metaphors together for comedic effect. For example, the mixed metaphor, "He was born with a silver foot in his mouth" combines the metaphors "To be born with a silver spoon in one's mouth" (meaning: to be born privileged) and "To put one's foot in one's mouth" (meaning: to say something embarrassing) to create a puzzlingly humorous hybrid. Mixed metaphor is often referred to as catachresis.
• "In a sense we’ve come to our nation’s capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the “unalienable Rights” of “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note..."
• Absolute metaphors are metaphors in which the tenor can't be distinguished from the vehicle. In other words, the content of the metaphor can't be stated explicitly, because the only way to express the content is through the metaphor itself. An example would be "Life is a journey." We're constantly equating life with a journey, often without realizing it, when we say things like "That kid is off to a good start" or "He's taken the road less travelled," because so much of life is unknown: we have no other way in our language to explain the complex, all-encompassing experience that life is. As a result, this metaphor starts to actually shape the way we see life, and the comparison it makes becomes a truth that's impossible to express without the metaphor itself.

These are the most common varieties of metaphor. Here's a great resource with information about still more types of metaphors.

The Debate Over Metaphor's Meaning

There are actually two accepted definitions of metaphor—one that's quite broad and one that's more specific—and people commonly confuse the two without even noticing, so it follows that there is some debate over which definition is correct . The truth is, both definitions are correct, and for that reason it's useful to have a solid understanding of both, as well as what makes them different. These are the two definitions given in the Oxford Companion to English Language —the first one broad, the other narrow:

• Metaphor: All figures of speech that achieve their effect through association, comparison, and resemblance. Figures like antithesis , hyperbole , metonymy , and simile are all species of metaphor.
• Metaphor: A figure of speech which concisely compares two things by saying that one is the other.

This entry focuses on the second, narrower definition of metaphor. To read more about the broader definition of metaphor, it may help to take a look at the entry on analogy —another broad category that encompasses many of the same figures of speech as the broader definition of metaphor.

Metaphor vs. Simile

Of all the different kinds of figures of speech that fit under the broader definition of metaphor (described above), simile is the one that is most often confused with the more specific definition of metaphor that we cover in this entry, since both simile and metaphor are figures of speech that involve the comparison of unlike things. However, simile and metaphor do not make comparisons in the same way. The most obvious difference between simile and metaphor can be summed up this way:

• Similes use the words "like" or "as" to establish their comparison: "The world is like your oyster."
• Metaphors state the comparison without such connecting words: "The world is your oyster."

While the presence of a connecting word, such as "like" or "as," is generally a good rule of thumb to identify similes versus metaphors, it doesn't get at the root of the difference between these two figures of speech. A deeper way to understand the difference is through the nature of the comparison each one makes:

• A simile makes an explicit comparison by asserting that two different things are similar . A simile sets thing A and thing B side by side to compare them. In the sentence "The world is like your oyster," the listener is asked to mentally visualize and compare "the world" and "an oyster"—as though he or she were holding one in each hand—and draw a comparison between the two.
• A metaphor asserts an implicit comparison by stating that one thing is the other thing . Instead of setting two entities A and B side by side through the use of connecting words, metaphor superimposes them. The metaphor "The world is your oyster" asks the reader to imagine his or her relationship to the world as being the relationship of an oyster to the space inside its shell.

This isn't to say that either a simile or metaphor is stronger or better than the other, just that they are subtly different in the sort of comparison they create, and this difference affects how a reader imaginatively interacts with the text.

Metaphor Examples

Examples of metaphor in literature.

Mastering the art of metaphor is essential to writing vivid, relatable poetry and prose. Furthermore, understanding a writer's use of metaphor will enable you to better understand the specific themes that run throughout works of literature.

Metaphor in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby tells the story of Jay Gatsby, an ambitious young man from a poor background, and his pursuit of the wealthy, aristocratic Daisy Buchanan. Gatsby eventually amasses a fortune large enough to purchase a mansion across the water from Daisy's estate on Long Island, New York. Throughout the novel, Gatsby gazes longingly at the green light that shines from the end of Daisy's dock, and this light becomes a symbol for Gatsby's yearning for the unattainable Daisy. Fitzgerald concludes the novel by adding a further layer of meaning to the metaphor of the Green Light:

Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther.... And then one fine morning—So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.

Here, the green light isn't simply a symbol for Daisy, but a metaphor for the "orgastic future that year by year recedes before us,"—for the ultimate, unattainable, and perhaps even unknowable goal of each individual's ambition. This use of metaphor is a bit subtler than an "X is Y" construction such as "she's a gem," since Fitzgerald never explicitly states that the green light is anything. Instead, he uses a comma to equate the green light with the "orgastic future" that he then describes in detail. He then broadens and extends the metaphor even further by introducing the image of "boats [beating on] against the current" to describe all people who pursue such a future, seeming to suggest that everyone experiences some version of Gatsby's struggle toward the "green light."

Metaphor in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

Romeo uses the following metaphor in Act 2 Scene 2 of Romeo and Juliet , after sneaking into Juliet's garden and catching a glimpse of her on her balcony:

But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.

Romeo compares Juliet to the sun not only to describe how radiantly beautiful she is, but also to convey the full extent of her power over him. He's so taken with Juliet that her appearances and disappearances affect him like those of the sun. His life "revolves" around Juliet like the earth orbits the sun. The rest of the passage, which we haven't included here, is also an example of extended metaphor—since Romeo continues to speak about Juliet as though she were the sun throughout his brief monologue.

Metaphor in James Joyces' Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man

Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man is a bildungsroman — a novel that follows the journey of a young protagonist from childhood to adulthood. In Portrait, Joyce describes the growth and maturation of Stephen Daedalus, a young boy growing up in an impoverished Irish-Catholic household who ultimately aspires to become a writer. In Chapter 5, Stephen composes the following love poem (a villanelle ) to his beloved Emma Clery (whom he actually barely knows and seldom sees):

Are you not weary of ardent ways, Lure of the fallen seraphim? Tell no more of enchanted days. Your eyes have set man's heart ablaze And you have had your will of him. Are you not weary of ardent ways? Above the flame the smoke of praise Goes up from ocean rim to rim. Tell no more of enchanted days. Our broken cries and mournful lays Rise in one eucharistic hymn. Are you not weary of ardent ways? While sacrificing hands upraise The chalice flowing to the brim, Tell no more of enchanted days. And still you hold our longing gaze With languorous look and lavish limb! Are you not weary of ardent ways? Tell no more of enchanted days.

Stephen's expression of love is full of metaphors—he likens his lovestruck heart to a "blaze," and his words of praise to "smoke." The "chalice flowing to the brim" is similarly a metaphor for the strength of Stephen's feeling—which, in the context of the novel, might be either religious or sexual in nature.

Metaphors occur frequently in love poems such as this, one reason being that the lover or narrator seeks to express the singular, unique experience of love in terms that the reader can relate to. For instance, in the example above from Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare—through Romeo—compares Juliet to the sun, in part because he recognizes that most readers are familiar with the sun's awe-inspiring beauty, and therefore will be better able to imagine Romeo's profound admiration for Juliet through this metaphorical comparison.

However, the use of metaphors can sometimes cover up lack of knowledge about something, and this is particularly relevant to Stephen's poem. Stephen wrote his romantic villanelle to a woman he barely knows and hasn't seen for ten years. His somewhat cliché metaphor comparing love to a "heart ablaze" emitting "smoke of praise" may be interpreted not only as the first attempt of a young poet, but also as an indication that Stephen fully understands neither the woman to whom his poem is addressed, nor the complexity of his own feelings.

Metaphor in Kurt Vonnegut's Cat's Cradle

The title " Cat's Cradle " refers to a children's game in which the player makes an intricate pattern of X's by weaving a piece of string between his or her fingers. It also functions as an important metaphor in Vonnegut's novel, which follows the attempts of a nameless writer to research Dr. Felix Hoenikker: a scientist who (in the story in the book) helped invent the atomic bomb. The writer reaches out to Hoenikker's son, Newt, who tells him that on the day the Americans dropped the bomb—Dr. Hoenikker's invention—on Hiroshima, his father attempted to play cat's cradle with him. For some inexplicable reason, the game terrified Newt. The adult Newt explains:

"For maybe a hundred thousand years or more, grownups have been waving tangles of string in their children's faces... No wonder kids grow up crazy. A cat's cradle is nothing but a bunch of X's between somebody's hands, and little kids look and look and look at all those X's... No damn cat, and no damn cradle."

It's clear that even as an adult, cat's cradle retains a special significance for Newt: his father used the game as a diversion, lacking in substance and meaning, to distract himself and his son from the terrible reality of the bomb. Later on in the novel, Newt discovers that his sister, Angela, is abused by her husband. Referencing the way Angela hides her unhappiness and lies about her husband's behavior, Newt asks, "See the cat? See the cradle?" In doing so, he compares Angela's efforts to hide her husband's violence to their father's efforts to hide his own acts of violence (using cat's cradle as a distraction). Newt insightfully connects children's games to the games adults play with themselves. In short, cats cradle becomes an elaborate metaphor for evading the truth, and the way that people then become trapped and entangled in those evasions.

Examples of Metaphor in Song Lyrics

Metaphorical comparisons often make language more memorable and more powerful, and can capture and make vivid emotions and feelings in profound, new, arresting, and often concise ways. It's no wonder, then, that musicians across genres regularly use metaphor in their song lyrics.

Metaphor in Pat Benatar's "Love is a Battlefield"

In her most famous song, released on the album Live from Earth in 1983, Benatar compares love—in its dangerousness and its power—to a battlefield:

When I'm losing control Will you turn me away Or touch me deep inside And when all this gets old Will it still feel the same There's no way this will die But if we get much closer I could lose control And if your heart surrenders You'll need me to hold We are young Heartache to heartache we stand No promises No demands Love is a battlefield

Metaphor in Katy Perry's "Firework"

In "Firework" ( Teenage Dream , 2010), Perry uses extended metaphor to compare a firework to her lover's inner "spark" of resilience which, in the context of the song, stands in opposition to the dreary experience of life and the difficulty of communicating with others:

Do you know that there's still a chance for you? 'Cause there's a spark in you You just gotta ignite the light And let it shine Just own the night Like the Fourth of July 'Cause baby, you're a firework C'mon, show 'em what you're worth Make 'em go "Aah, aah, aah" As you shoot across the sky Baby, you're a firework C'mon, let your colors burst Make 'em go, "Aah, aah, aah" You're gonna leave them all in awe, awe, awe

Metaphor in The Eagles' "Life in the Fast Lane"

In the title phrase "Life in the Fast Lane" ( Hotel California , 1976), "the Fast Lane" is a metaphor for a lawless, limitless, risky mindset. If you live life in the Fast Lane, it means that you are edgy, daring, and impulsive, like the couple described in the song:

Life in the fast lane, surely make you lose your mind Life in the fast lane Life in the fast lane, everything all the time Life in the fast lane Blowin' and burnin' blinded by thirst They didn't see the stop sign; Took a turn for the worse She said, "Listen, baby. You can hear the engine ring. We've been up and down this highway; haven't seen a god-damn thing." He said, "Call the doctor. I think I'm gonna crash." "The doctor say he's coming but you gotta pay in cash." They were rushing down that freeway; Messed around and got lost They didn't care they were just dyin' to get off.

The Eagles extend the metaphor of "the fast lane" into the verse following the chorus: the "stop sign" and "engine ring" are metaphors for warning signs suggesting the couple's way of living is unsustainable.

Why Do Writers Use Metaphor?

Writers, and people in general, use metaphors for countless reasons:

• They create memorable images with language.
• They help communicate personal or imaginary experiences in terms to which readers can relate.
• By connecting different spheres of experience and language, they can lead the reader to surprising and important discoveries; the figurative meaning that metaphors create can help a reader to see the world or a concept in a new way.
• They can even sometimes hide a person's lack of knowledge about the things they're discussing.

It should be noted that metaphors aren't merely additive —in other words, they aren't just meant to embellish language or "spice it up." Metaphors actually shape our understanding of the relationships between things in the world. Without even knowing it, we constantly speak and think in metaphors.

Other Helpful Metaphor Resources

• The Wikipedia Page on Metaphor: An in-depth explanation of metaphor, its history, and how it relates to other figures of speech.
• The Dictionary Definition of Metaphor: A basic definition and etymology of the term—it comes from the Greek metaphora, meaning "a transfer."
• 99 Metaphors for Love: ThoughtCo's compendium of 99 love metaphors that span genres and centuries.
• A very worthwhile, very 1980s music video of Pat Benatar singing her metaphorically-titled song "Love is a Battlefield."
• The opening scene of Disney's Aladdin, in which Jafar learns he must find the "diamond in the rough"—a metaphorical riddle, the answer to which is Aladdin himself: a "gem" amongst the low-class riffraff.

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53 Metaphor Examples in Literature, Music, and Everyday Life

General Education

If you’re a writer or poet, you’ve likely heard of metaphors — and might even be a fan of using them in your own writing. Metaphors bring power, persuasiveness, and beauty to the written word.

Here, we explain what a metaphor is and list 50+ metaphor examples in literature, popular songs, famous quotations, and more. We also provide you with some tips on how to come up with unique metaphors of your own.

What Is a Metaphor?

A metaphor is a literary device and figure of speech that compares two unalike things in a non-literal manner . Usually, the two ideas being compared will have one trait in common but differ in all other respects.

Metaphors are used by writers for clarity, rhetorical effect, and emphasis; they're also used to add color to descriptions. You’ll see metaphors most often in poetry, fiction/prose, and song lyrics.

Now, how does a metaphor differ from a simile ? A simile is a type of metaphor that specifically uses the words "as" or "like" to make a comparison between two unalike things.

By contrast, metaphors do not use either of these words; rather, they will say that "A is B" to make the comparison (even though we know A is not literally the same as B).

Basically, all similes are metaphors — but not all metaphors are similes .

A Comprehensive List of 53 Metaphor Examples

For this list, we include a wide array of metaphor examples, which are divided into the following categories:

• Metaphor Examples in Literature (including an extended metaphor example )

Metaphor Examples in Famous Quotations

Metaphor examples in music, everyday metaphor examples for kids and adults, original metaphor examples.

Metaphor Examples in Literature

These metaphor examples come from famous works of fiction and poetry. We’ve also included an extended metaphor example , which is a long metaphor sustained for an entire paragraph, story, or poem (noted below).

"But thy eternal summer shall not fade" — William Shakespeare, Sonnet 18

But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun. — William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

If you can look into the seeds of time, And say which grain will grow and which will not, Speak then to me, who neither beg nor fear Your favours nor your hate. — William Shakespeare, Macbeth

All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players. — William Shakespeare, As You Like It

"Her mouth was a fountain of delight." — Kate Chopin, "The Storm"

"The sun was a toddler insistently refusing to go to bed: It was past eight thirty and still light." — John Green, The Fault in Our Stars

"She’s all states, and all princes, I" — John Donne, "The Sun Rising"

"Hope" is the thing with feathers— That perches in the soul— And sings the tune without the words— And never stops—at all — Emily Dickinson, "'Hope' Is the Thing With Feathers"

"The sun in the west was a drop of burning gold that slid nearer and nearer the sill of the world." — William Golding, Lord of the Flies

I’m a riddle in nine syllables, An elephant, a ponderous house, A melon strolling on two tendrils. — Sylvia Plath, "Metaphors"

Marriage is not a house or even a tent — Margaret Atwood, "Habitation"

"She was a mind floating in an ocean of confusion." — Caroline B. Cooney, The Face on the Milk Carton

Extended Metaphor Example:

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill of things unknown but longed for still and his tune is heard on the distant hill for the caged bird sings of freedom.

— Maya Angelou, "Caged Bird"

These next metaphor examples all come from quotations said or written by well-known writers, politicians, scientists, artists, and so on.

"Dying is a wild Night and a new Road." — Emily Dickinson

"Time is the moving image of eternity." ― Plato

"Books are the mirrors of the soul." — Virginia Woolf

"All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree." — Albert Einstein

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." — Pablo Picasso

"Your very flesh shall be a great poem." — Walt Whitman

"Conscience is a man’s compass." — Vincent van Gogh

"Advertising is the rattling of a stick inside a swill bucket." — George Orwell

"But there are many mountains yet to climb. We will not rest until every American enjoys the fullness of freedom, dignity, and opportunity as our birthright." — Ronald Reagan, Second Inaugural Address

"Trees are poems the earth writes upon the sky." — Kahlil Gibran

These metaphor examples were taken from popular song lyrics.

'Cause, baby, you're a firework Come on, show 'em what you’re worth — Katy Perry, "Firework"

Fire away, fire away You shoot me down but I won't fall I am titanium — David Guetta ft. Sia, "Titanium"

You are my fire The one desire Believe when I say I want it that way — Backstreet Boys, "I Want It That Way"

I'm a genie in a bottle You gotta rub me the right way — Christina Aguilera, "Genie in a Bottle"

Life is a highway I want to ride it all night long — Tom Cochrane, "Life Is a Highway"

This section provides everyday metaphor examples for kids and adults. You’ll often hear them in day-to-day life. These metaphors are most often referred to as idioms , which are established sayings whose meanings are not deducible from the individual words within them.

While it’s fine (and perfectly normal!) to use idioms in everyday speech, they can sound clichéd in writing and should therefore be avoided.

All metaphors have been bolded (except when the entire sentence is the metaphor).

Eyes are the windows to the soul.

It’s raining cats and dogs out here!

The sound of the pouring rain was music to my ears .

Love is a battlefield.

Time is money.

He has a heart of stone .

She has the strength of an ox .

My best friend stabbed me in the back .

It’s time to face the music .

That name doesn’t ring a bell .

Our vacation plans are still up in the air .

I had to break the bank to be able to afford this car.

That exam was a piece of cake .

I like reading novels, but poetry isn’t really my cup of tea .

That toddler is one smart cookie .

Telling jokes is a good way to break the ice .

My cousin is kind of the black sheep of the family.

Finally, here’s a short list of original metaphor examples to give you an idea as to how you could come up with your own metaphors.

She was sobbing so hard that her tears soon evolved into a fountain.

The forest was a lush, emerald ocean waiting to be explored.

His eyes were bright diamonds, leading me out of the darkness.

The job interview was the final battle, and she was ready to win.

He couldn’t imagine a world without her: she was his passion, his hope.

I began to drown in a sea of memories.

Hope is the last lingering flicker of a candle.

Whenever she goes running, she becomes a cheetah chasing its prey.

How to Use Metaphors in Writing: 3 Essential Tips

Whether you’re writing a poem, a short story, or something else entirely, knowing how and when to use metaphors can help your writing stand out in a more impactful way. Here are three tips to help you use metaphors more effectively.

#1: Avoid C lichés and Common Idioms

Although we gave you tons of metaphorical idioms above, in writing you will actually want to avoid using these, as they can make your writing sound unoriginal and boring .

Using clichés in anything you write will generally signal to the reader that you’re a lazy, uninspired writer who doesn’t think that it’s worth taking the time to come up with your own unique, creative metaphors.

Your Dictionary has a long list of clichés you’ll want to avoid when you write.

The only time you might want to use a clichéd metaphor or idiom is when you’re writing dialogue for a character and want to make their speech sound more realistic . Other than this, though, definitely avoid them!

#2: Use Logical Comparisons

A metaphor compares two unalike things, and while these things should certainly be very different from each other, they still must share some clearly detectable commonality . What this means is that you can’t compare two things that are so different that the metaphor won't make any sense to the reader.

For example, if you wanted to use a metaphor to describe the rhythmic, pleasant, delicate melody of a flute, it wouldn't be logical to compare it to something harsh, uncomfortable, or irregular.

Ultimately, your metaphors should be easily understood by the reader. If you’re not sure whether the meaning of your metaphor is clear or relevant, ask a friend or family member to read it (in context) and tell you whether they were able to interpret it easily.

#3: Don’t Clutter Your Writing With Too Many Metaphors

Finally, be sure to avoid clogging up your writing with too many metaphors.

Although metaphors are great devices for emphasis and poetic effect, they can also clutter your writing with way too many comparisons and make what you’re trying to say unclear and vague.

You risk not only alienating the reader when you have so many metaphors, but also lessening the impact of each metaphor , since they’ll all start to blend together and become less memorable.

If you’re ever in doubt, consider whether it might be best to avoid placing a metaphor in a certain spot and instead see how the text reads without it. Remember as well that you only want to use your strongest metaphors !

What’s Next?

Exactly how do similes differ from metaphors ? Our in-depth guide provides a clear explanation and gives you some helpful examples of both figures of speech.

Working on a piece of fiction or trying to analyze a work for English class? Then you'll want to read up on what the most important literary devices and poetic devices are and how they work.

What is the purpose of an epilogue? Learn how epilogues work in novels and get some tips on how to write your own .

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Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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Metaphor: definition, types, and examples

Masooma Memon

If I were a bit dramatic, I’d start this piece with the following line: chaos is a friend of mine.

Except, chaos isn’t a friend of mine – there’s no chaos wherever I go (thankfully 😅). And, I’m also not as dramatic. What I want to do though, is to introduce you to a metaphor in the first line itself.  

It got your attention, didn’t it?

Because that’s how metaphors work. They stroke your imagination, drawing beautiful comparisons between two apparently unrelated things or ideas. Here are a few more simple metaphor examples :

• Her heart is gold

• The snow is a white blanket.

• The falling snowflakes are dancers

Like them? We’ve a lot more metaphor examples to share with you. So read on as we share examples, dive into the definition of metaphor , and show you how to use this l iterary device . We’ll also clear the air around metaphor vs simile vs analogy.

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What is a metaphor.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that pulls comparisons between two unrelated ideas.

If I were to say this piece was a big, hairy project I worked on, you’d instantly imagine the comparison. And, you’d also understand I had a hard time writing it (except I didn’t. I only want to explain things as clearly as possible).

Circling back to being formal, a metaphor never makes clear comparisons. The resemblance is rather hidden and you’ve to put your brain to use to figure out how something compares to another. This means, a writer uses the literary device to keep you hooked to their work while also putting your thinking gears into motion.

In fact, back when I read William Shakespeare’s comedy As You Like It , he wrote a popular metaphor that reads:

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players…”

I remember the entire class musing over the figure language. Everyone shared their suggestions on the resemblance between the world and a stage.

See what happened?

Shakespeare engaged us with his metaphor. Besides, the true nature of a metaphor also comes out with this example – metaphors are never clear. Instead, they imply similarities.

What is the root word of metaphor?

Before we move on any further, let’s look at the etymology of metaphor.

It’s origin traces back to the 15 th century. But there’s no single root. Metaphor in English language comes from the Old French métaphore that, in turn, comes from the Latin metaphora (meaning: carrying over).

And here’s more: the Latin word comes from metaphorá in Greek, which means to transfer.

If we were to look at the big picture, the meaning of metaphor in all three of these languages is almost the same. Carrying over and transferring suggest taking the characteristic of an idea or an object and imposing it on another by way of comparison.

Examples of metaphors

Metaphors are everywhere: in your daily life, the movies, and song. There’s also a boatload of metaphor examples in literature.

Let’s look at each category for metaphor examples :

Metaphors from songs

“ You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog  Cryin’ all the time”  – Hound Dog by Elvis Presley

“You shoot me down, but I won’t fall I am titanium”  – Titanium by David Guetta ft. Sia

Metaphors from literature

“Exhaustion is a thin blanket tattered with bullet holes.” ― If Then, Matthew De Abaitua

“But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!” — Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare

Metaphors from daily life

• Life is a rollercoaster

• The classroom was a zoo

• The calm lake was a mirror

Metaphor vs simile vs analogy

Metaphors are often confused with similes and analogies. Why? Because all these literary terms compare ideas and settings. But, in different ways. I’ve explained this difference below:

Metaphor vs Simile

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two objects or ideas using the words ‘like’ and ‘as,’ giving literal meaning of how they compare.

  So a telltale sign of a simile is the prepositions it uses. Notice these aren’t present in a metaphor so you can instantly tell the difference between the two.

Metaphor vs. Analogy

Again, both of these work in the business of comparison. But, where a metaphor is a figure of speech, an analogy is a logical argument that elaborates on the resemblance between two things.

So how can you tell them apart? A good way to do so is to see how much explanation surrounds the comparison.

An analogy is word-friendly – it explains exactly what it’s comparing. Metaphor, on the flip side, leans on brevity and leaves you to think about potential point(s) of comparison between two ideas or concepts.

Let’s look at the examples to get this straight:

How do you identify a metaphor in 4 steps

Some metaphors, like the ones used in daily life, can be fairly simple to identify. Others can be a bit tricky to pick – tricky, but not impossible though.

Use this simple, 4-step framework to tell metaphors from a mile away:

1. Smell a comparison

Whether it’s a simile, analogy, or metaphor – all three work in the comparison business. This means the first step in identifying a metaphor is sensing a comparison in the text. If there’s one, you can tell you are in the company of a comparison literary device.

2. See if the comparison is standing on crutches

Similes lean on support. They rely on the words ‘like’ and ‘as’ to draw similarities. If you see any such crutches, you can tell it’s not a metaphor, but a simile.

3. Run it through the explanation monitor

Now that you’ve narrowed down your options to two: metaphor vs analogy, separate one from the other. How? By looking at how deep the comparison is explained. If the author has taken the time to explain the similarity between two ideas, the literary device is an analogy.

4. Take the metaphor under the microscope

By now, you’d know that there’s a metaphor in front of you. So this last step in the framework is to break down the metaphor and analyze the content.

Some questions to ask yourself are: what’s being compared? What characteristics are similar? How are they different? 

Common types of metaphors

Now that you know what a metaphor is, how it compares to other agents of comparison and also understand the use of metaphor , let’s dig into its types.

Altogether we’ve four types of metaphors plus 2 more that you need to be familiar with:

1. Standard metaphor

A standard metaphor states one idea is another, making a direct comparison as if the two ideas were synonyms. 

The template looks like this: X is Y so that Y is almost a metonym (substitute name for the close association) for X. 

Example : Maria is my sunshine

Explanation : Maria is directly called sunshine. Of course, Maria can’t be sunshine, so the reader has to understand that Maria is as important to the writer’s life as sunshine is.

2. Implied metaphor

As its name suggests, an implied metaphor makes an implied comparison without ever making a direct comparison between two ideas.

Example : The commander barked an order to the troops to stand alert.

Explanation : With this implied metaphor, the commander’s order is compared to that of a bark, suggesting it as harsh.  

3. Visual metaphor

A visual image compares something to a visual image of another. This type of metaphor is common in advertising where a product is visualized with another object. For example, spicy Cheetos being compared to fire. 

There’s also another way to see visual metaphors as metaphors that compare something to another to give a visual identity. For instance, in her poem Hope is the thing with feathers, Emily Dickinson gives the visual image of a bird to hope. 

4. Extended metaphor

An extended metaphor uses descriptive language to elaborate a comparison. It’s the type of metaphor that you find referenced throughout a stanza, a full poem, a couple of paragraphs, or an entire blog post.

Example: This post that explains how to use the Swiss cheese productivity method to get things done references food items throughout the piece. 

Here’s a peek:

• You started by taking a snack-able piece from your cheese block (the overwhelming project) 

• You poked holes in the cheese chunk by continuously doing small tasks one at a time throughout your work day

• You created so many holes in the cheese block that you finished it

Two more types of metaphors that you need to know of:

Mixed metaphor

Again, the name explains what a mixed metaphor is – a combination of two commonly used metaphors.

This one’s a combination of two prominent metaphors ‘get on the same page’ and ‘get our ducks in a row.’

Dead metaphor

These are metaphors that have been overused to the point that they’ve become clichés. So you’re better off not using them as dead metaphors have lost much of their impact with their overuse.

How to create a metaphor

Now, to get you to speak some metaphorical language by writing metaphors:

• Nail down the character, setting, idea, or object that you want to describe with a metaphor.
• Identify exactly which characteristic of the character or object you want to compare with another character or object.
• Look for how your chosen characteristic compares to a characteristic of another character, setting, setting, idea, or object.
• Write the comparison. You may not get it right in the first go. So rewrite your metaphor a couple of times until you get it just right.

Let’s break down this metaphor example from Albert Einstein to understanding it’s making:

All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree

In this case, three ideas: religion, arts, and sciences are compared. They’re all compared to branches of a tree. And, the aim of this metaphor? To show that all three come from the same idea just as different branches of the same tree.

Best practices for using metaphors

Beware of mixed metaphors.

Mixed metaphors are slippery eels that can make their way into your writing without warning. The reason? They come from overused metaphors that are so common they go in mixtures you can’t identify at first look. Hence, it’s best you double check a metaphor before including it in your writing.

Choose a clear comparison

Sure, a good metaphor gets readers thinking, but that doesn’t mean the comparison has to be hidden in layers. Instead, the comparison has to be clear, if not literal.

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200 Short and Sweet Metaphor Examples

Examples of metaphors for love, examples of metaphor from famous people, examples of common metaphors.

Examples of Popular Metaphors

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What Is A Metaphor? Examples Of Metaphors In Writing

Today we’ll look at what a metaphor is, share examples of metaphors in writing, and give some tips for how to use metaphors when writing.

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Metaphors are some of the most effective tools for adding color and emphasis to your writing. Although they serve many of the same functions as similes, they are generally much more subtle and poetic.

In fact, the Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle thought of metaphors so highly that he considered their mastery “a sign of genius.”

Metaphors defined 

Metaphors are figures of speech in which one thing is spoken of in terms of another.

Frequently, metaphors compare people or events to inanimate objects or natural occurrences. Even when the two things being compared are seemingly unrelated to each other, the use of a metaphor makes the reader understand that the comparison isn’t literal. 

The word “metaphor” comes from the 16 th -century French word métaphore , which in turn is derived from the Latin word metaphora , which means “carrying over” or “to carry across.” The word metaphor, therefore, suggests the carrying over of a shared characteristic or quality across two different things.

See Related Post: Allusion in Writing

The purpose of metaphors

The most basic function of a metaphor is to impart a bit of emphasis and color to what a writer is trying to express. For instance, describing someone as having a “sea of knowledge” means that the writer considers that person extremely wise or knowledgeable. 

In this particular example, the “sea” and “knowledge” obviously do not have a literal relationship with each other. Even so, they share the qualities of being large or immense, as well as being difficult to measure. By using them both in a comparative statement, most readers would understand that the writer is alluding to the person’s vast and immeasurable knowledge.

Why are metaphors so important?

Using metaphors are useful for adding detail to your writing and making it more powerful. They can impart essential sensory details and make your story or message more interesting to the reader. Used effectively, metaphors can make your words more real and give your readers a more meaningful connection to a character or scene.

Metaphors also spur on the imagination of your readers, enabling them to form a new and more in-depth understanding of familiar ideas. They can also help readers better understand a topic that would otherwise be vague or confusing to them. 

Things to keep in mind when using metaphors

One of the risks associated with using metaphors is the tendency for readers to be confused about what the writer is trying to express.

Often, there is a need to examine the context in which the metaphor is used. Depending on the particular usage, a metaphor could affect the meaning of the phrase in different ways. 

It is also worth noting that some writers may include a phrase that is commonly used as a metaphor without necessarily comparing two things with each other.

When describing someone as having a “broken heart”, for example, the writer may not necessarily be alluding to the subject’s heart. Instead, the phrase “broken heart” may simply be used because of its familiarity as a figurative expression.

Examples of metaphors

Metaphors are fairly common in everyday language, so much so that most of us don’t even give them a second thought. Many of the expressions that we commonly use in written and spoken language are, in fact, metaphors.

Among these are phrases such as “heart of gold”. Some metaphors may also refer to other people in unflattering terms such as a “snake”, a “pig”, or a “shark”. 

Here are some more common examples:

“All religions, arts, and sciences are branches of the same tree.” – Albert Einstein 

In this particular example, Einstein obviously wasn’t talking about horticulture. But his association of religion, art, and science with a tree suggests that he believed that they were all part of a bigger whole. 

“The running back carried the entire team on his back the whole game!”

This is commonly heard in sports where metaphors are frequently used. Instead of visualizing an entire team being carried on a single player’s back, it would be more accurate to get a picture of the player performing more than is typically expected. 

“You were a total rock star at the last sales meeting!”

This suggests that the object of the metaphor performed exceptionally well during the last meeting. Rock stars are often seen as larger-than-life characters capable of astounding feats. By being compared to a rock star, the object is considered as having performed outstandingly well. 

The use of metaphors is rife in literature throughout the ages. In William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet , the following line is written: 

“But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!”

Considered one of the most famous metaphors in the English language, it compares Juliet to the sun, suggesting the radiance of her beauty. The absence of comparing words such as “like” or “as” further emphasize how Romeo was impressed with Juliet.

In Khalil Gibran’s Sand and Foam , we read the following example: 

“Our words are but crumbs that fall down from the feast of the mind.”

In many ways, this particular metaphor is quite similar to other commonly used–and abused–metaphors such as “the tip of the iceberg” or “a mere shadow.” These metaphors suggest that what we are seeing is only a fraction of what remains hidden or concealed. 

But unlike those other metaphors that border on the cliché, Gibran’s sentence adopts a more creative and original approach. It also utilizes two different comparisons in one metaphor, by comparing “words” to “crumbs” and “mind” to “feast”. This usage makes the metaphor much more powerful and evocative to the reader. 

The next example comes from Sylvia Plath’s Metaphors. Here, the sentence simply reads; 

“I’ve eaten a bag of green apples.”

The simplicity of this particular example arguably makes the message more powerful once you figure out what the author is trying to express. But it also makes the metaphor a bit more difficult to comprehend. In fact, many of Plath’s poems–this one included–are rife with figurative language, much of which can be challenging to understand. 

But the meaning of this particular metaphor can be deduced by knowing what the poem is about, which is Plath’s pregnancy. It is, therefore, safe to assume that the line alludes to morning sickness, the symptoms of which could be similar to consuming a bag of sour green apples. 

Metaphors are common in pop culture as well. In Disney’s Aladdin , the following phrase is used: 

“Seek thee out the diamond in the rough.”

This line is only one of many in the film that compares humans to jewels and gemstones. This particular example alludes to Aladdin as a “diamond in the rough”, suggesting that despite his rough and unpolished state, he could go on to achieve great things. 

Finally, from singer Pink comes this line from her song God Is a DJ : 

“God is a DJ, life is a dance floor, love is a rhythm.”

Again, this metaphor combines more than one comparison in a fairly lengthy phrase. As in Khalil Gibran’s Sand and Foam, this approach helps create a more powerful image.

In this case, it encapsulates the entirety of the world within the confines of a nightclub. And because the song is likely played in nightclubs, club-goers are presumably able to relate their more fleeting experience to loftier and more significant concepts. 

As you can see, metaphors can add richness and color to what would otherwise be drab and straightforward writing. Learn how to utilize metaphors effectively, and you could add more depth and expression to your written work. 

Do you have any questions about metaphors or examples of metaphors you are familiar with? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

Eric Pangburn is a freelance writer who shares his best tips with other writers here at ThinkWritten. When not writing, he enjoys coaching basketball and spending time with his family.

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292 Useful Metaphor Examples! Types of Metaphors with Examples

One of the most frequently used forms of figurative language in the English language is the metaphor. But what is this figure of speech used for and how can it be used in a day-to-day conversation? In this article, we are going to take a look at the answer to both of these questions. We are also going to find out exactly how metaphor looks in a spoken conversation by viewing some examples as well as taking a look at some examples of the use of metaphor as a literary device.

What Is A Metaphor?

As mentioned in the introduction, a metaphor is a form of figurative language. A metaphor is a rhetorical device in which an object, idea or situation is referred to directly as something it is not. It moves away from referring to something in a literal sense, and refers to it as something else in order to create a more imaginative figure of speech and description of something.

When used as a literary device, a metaphor can add a more detailed and complex description to something giving the reader a more in depth experience. A metaphor is more easily able to convey an idea or an emotion than by simply using a literal statement.

Metaphor Examples

Metaphor examples in spoken language.

In a day-to-day speech, you are likely to hear the use of metaphors very often. They are a common type of figurative language and can be heard in many types of situations. We are now going to take a look at some examples of sentences that feature metaphors in order to better understand how they are used in a conversation.

• The snow was a blanket of white on the ground.
• Her singing was so good, she was a shining star.
• She cried a river of tears after her father passed away.
• My next-door neighbour is a real old dragon.
• When it comes to eating, he is a pig.
• My sister is a night owl.
• My wife is an old dinosaur.
• You are such a chicken.
• The crocodile had teeth that were white daggers.
• The dancer was a swan.
• He is so clumsy he is a bull a china shop.
• My husband is a sofa hog.
• He is my sunshine.
• The desert is a dry bone.
• The clouds are fluffy cotton candy.
• Her temper is a volcano.
• The grass in the garden is a green carpet.
• The stars are sparkling gems in the sky.
• The sisters are two peas in a pod.
• The solution is just a sticking plaster for the problem.
• The eyes are a window to your soul.
• Last summer, I was boiling hot.
• This is music to my ears.
• Thank you for your help, you are a true angel.

Metaphor Examples for Kids

• Life is a journey.
• The world is a stage.
• Time is a thief.
• Love is a rose.
• Knowledge is power.
• Laughter is medicine.
• The sun is a golden ball in the sky.
• The wind is a playful kitten.
• My brother is a monkey.
• My teacher is a walking encyclopedia.
• The ocean is a vast, blue blanket.
• My sister is a shining star.
• The city is a jungle.
• The moon is a silver coin in the sky.
• The night is a black cloak.

Metaphor Examples in Literature

Using a metaphor in a literary piece is an extremely popular choice with writers because this type of figurative language can add an extra layer of complexity to the writing and better convey the feeling of the piece. Now we are going to take a look at some examples of times in which metaphor has been used in a literary sense.

• In the song sing by Michael Buble, we see an example of metaphor in the line ‘ why do you not cry me a river? ‘
• In ‘The sun rises’ written by John Donne, we see an example of metaphor in the line ‘ she is all princes and she is all states .’
• In the piece ‘ shall I compare thee to a summers day? ‘ there are examples of metaphor throughout the work, one of these examples is that William Shakespeare uses a metaphor to describe a life long love by calling it ‘ an eternal summer .’
• In the poem ‘When I have fears’ written by John Keats, we can see an example of metaphor in the line ‘ before high piled books in character, they hold like rich the ripened grain .’
• In ‘the sun rising’ written by John Donne, we can see another example of metaphor being used in the line ‘ busy old fool, you unruly sun. ‘
• ‘I carry your heart with me’ written by E E Cummings, shows a good example of metaphor in the line ‘ you are what a moon means and what a sun sings is you .’
• Kate Chopin uses metaphor in her piece ‘The storm’ where she writes the line ‘ her words are a fountain of delight. ‘
• In ‘The call of Cthulhu’ written by H P Lovecraft, we can see an example of metaphor when we read the line ‘ we live on a calm island of ignorance in the middle of infinite black oceans .’
• In the song ‘Hound dog’ by Elvis Presley, we see a metaphor in the title line when he sings ‘ you are nothing but a hound dog. ‘
• The song by Rascal Flatts, ‘life is a highway’ features a metaphor in it’s title by stating that life is in fact a highway.
• In the song ‘human nature’ by Michael Jackson, we can see that there is a metaphor example in the line ‘ life is an apple so let me take a bite. ‘
• Switchfoot sings a song which uses a metaphor as it’s title, which is ‘ love is a song .’
• In the song ‘heart of gold’ by Neil Young, there are many examples of metaphor, one of them is seen in the line ‘ I am a minor for a heart of gold. ‘

Metaphor Examples in Poems

• “The fog comes / on little cat feet.” – Carl Sandburg
• “I wandered lonely as a cloud” – William Wordsworth
• “Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player / That struts and frets his hour upon the stage” – William Shakespeare
• “A book is a garden, an orchard, a storehouse, a party, a company by the way, a counsellor, a multitude of counsellors.” – Henry Ward Beecher
• “All the world’s a stage, / And all the men and women merely players” – William Shakespeare
• “My heart is a lonely hunter that hunts / On a lonely hill.” – William Sharp
• “The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas.” – Alfred Noyes
• “Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs” – William Shakespeare
• “The wind tapped like a tired man / And like a host, ‘Come in,’ / I boldly answered; entered then / My residence within.” – Emily Dickinson
• “A hope like the sun / Aspires, / And shines, / And never sets.” – Emily Dickinson
• “Hope is a thing with feathers / That perches in the soul” – Emily Dickinson
• “The mind is a universe and can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.” – John Milton
• “O my Luve’s like a red, red rose / That’s newly sprung in June” – Robert Burns
• “Time is a thief that steals our years away” – Edward Young
• “The streets were a furnace, the sun an executioner” – Cynthia Ozick
• “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” – Saint Augustine
• “Memory is a mirror that scandalously lies.” – Julio Cortázar
• “My heart’s a stereo / It beats for you, so listen close” – Gym Class Heroes
• “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” – Thomas Jefferson
• “Life is a game of whist. From unseen sources / The cards are shuffled and the hands are dealt.” – Edwin Arlington Robinson

Metaphor Examples (By Different Categories)

Examples of metaphors about nature:.

• As busy as a bee
• As free as a bird
• As gentle as a lamb
• As fierce as a tiger
• As cool as a cucumber
• As bright as the sun
• As steady as a rock
• As fast as lightning

Examples of Metaphors about Food and Drink:

• Life is like a box of chocolates
• She’s a peach
• He’s a lemon
• She’s a hot potato
• He’s a cold fish
• She’s a spicy meatball
• Life is a bowl of cherries
• She’s the apple of his eye

Examples of Metaphors about the Body:

• He has a heart of gold
• She’s a breath of fresh air
• He’s got nerves of steel
• She’s a pain in the neck
• He’s a real pain in the butt
• She’s a sight for sore eyes
• He’s got a sharp tongue
• She’s all ears

Examples of Metaphors about Animals:

• As sly as a fox
• As strong as an ox
• As quiet as a mouse
• As busy as a beaver
• As stubborn as a mule
• As wise as an owl
• As slippery as an eel
• As happy as a clam

Examples of Metaphors about Technology:

• My brain is a computer
• My phone is my lifeline
• His mind is a well-oiled machine
• She’s wired for success
• His memory is like a hard drive
• She’s a master of multitasking
• He’s a tech wizard
• She’s a coding genius

Examples of Metaphors about Emotion:

• She was boiling with anger
• He was on cloud nine after winning the race
• She was drowning in sorrow
• He was a volcano of emotions
• She was bursting with excitement
• He was feeling blue
• She was over the moon with joy
• He was simmering with frustration

Examples of Metaphors about Behaviors:

• He was walking on eggshells around his boss
• She was tiptoeing around the issue
• He was playing it safe
• She was testing the waters
• He was running in circles trying to solve the problem
• She was juggling too many tasks
• He was dancing around the question
• She was tip-toeing through the minefield of office politics

Examples of Metaphors about Love:

• He wears his heart on his sleeve
• She’s a ray of sunshine in his life
• He’s head over heels in love with her
• She’s the missing piece in his puzzle
• He’s her knight in shining armor
• She’s the light in his darkness
• He’s her rock in the stormy sea of life

Examples of Metaphors about Time:

• Time is money
• Time flies when you’re having fun
• The past is a foreign country
• The future is a blank slate
• The present is a gift
• Time is a thief
• The years are creeping up on her
• He’s stuck in a time warp

Metaphor Examples about Knowledge and Learning:

• Knowledge is power
• She’s a walking encyclopedia
• He’s a quick study
• She’s a sponge for new information
• He’s a font of knowledge
• Learning is a journey
• She’s cracking the code
• He’s unlocking the mysteries of the universe

Metaphor Examples about Success and Failure

• Failure is a stepping stone to success
• Success is a double-edged sword
• He’s climbing the ladder of success
• She’s hitting a brick wall
• He’s treading water
• She’s making great strides
• He’s on a slippery slope
• She’s stuck in a rut

Metaphor Examples about Health and Illness

• He’s fighting a losing battle
• She’s a picture of health
• He’s as fit as a fiddle
• She’s burning the candle at both ends
• He’s a ticking time bomb
• She’s on the road to recovery
• He’s walking on thin ice
• She’s living on borrowed time

Metaphor Examples about Creativity

• She’s a creative powerhouse
• His mind is a wellspring of ideas
• She’s a master of her craft
• He’s painting with words
• She’s weaving a tapestry of ideas
• He’s sculpting his vision
• She’s writing a symphony of words
• He’s a virtuoso of creativity

Metaphor Examples about Travel

• Life is a journey, not a destination
• She’s setting sail on a new adventure
• He’s charting his own course
• She’s wandering down the path less traveled
• He’s hitting the open road
• She’s taking the scenic route
• He’s exploring new horizons
• She’s crossing the finish line

Metaphor Examples about Politics

• He’s playing hardball
• She’s a political animal
• He’s a political lightning rod
• She’s playing both sides of the fence
• He’s pandering to the base
• She’s a political chameleon
• He’s a kingmaker
• She’s a rising star in the political arena

Metaphor Examples about Relationships

• She’s the yin to his yang
• He’s the peanut butter to her jelly
• She’s the sugar to his spice
• He’s the wind beneath her wings
• She’s the key to his heart
• He’s the missing puzzle piece in her life
• She’s the light of his life
• He’s the love of her life

Metaphor Examples about Sports

• Life is a game, and we are the players
• He’s a slam dunk in the basketball court
• She’s a home run in the baseball field
• He’s a touchdown in the football game
• She’s a star player in the team
• He’s playing ball with life
• She’s a runner-up in the race
• He’s a team player in the game of life

Metaphor Examples about Money

• Money is the root of all evil
• He’s as rich as Croesus
• She’s penny-wise and pound-foolish
• He’s living from paycheck to paycheck
• She’s in the red financially
• He’s as tight-fisted as Scrooge
• She’s made a killing in the stock market
• He’s throwing money down the drain

Types of Metaphors (with Examples)

There exist five main types of metaphors, and an additional sixth one, which is essentially a mix of two or more metaphors.

Let’s detail each one for further illustration:

Standard Metaphor Examples (Direct Metaphor)

The standard metaphor is a direct comparison that treats one idea or entity as synonymous with another. The basic formula to represent this type of metaphor would be “X is Y” or “X = Y.”

Example:  “Anna is a sweetie pie.”

This sentence directly compares Anna to the sweetie pie, signifying perhaps that Anna has a charming character.

More Standard Metaphor Examples:

• My love is a rose in bloom.
• She has a heart of gold.
• His temper was a volcano about to erupt.
• My father is the rock of our family.
• Time is money.
• Her words were a knife that cut deep.
• His eyes were a window to his soul.
• Love is a battlefield.
• The classroom was a zoo.
• The stormy relationship was a rollercoaster ride.
• His words were music to her ears.
• She was a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day.
• The sea of faces in the crowd was overwhelming.
• The city was a melting pot of cultures.
• He was a lion on the basketball court.
• Her dreams were a castle in the sky.
• She was a fish out of water in the new school.
• The future is a blank canvas waiting to be painted

Implied Metaphor Examples (Indirect Metaphor)

As the term suggests, an implied metaphor compares two unrelated things without explicitly mentioning the other.

Example:  “Mike bleated bitterly during the entire trip.”

In this example, Mike is being likened to an annoying sheep or goat, as is suggested by the use of the verb  “bleated,”  corresponding to the animal’s characteristic cry. The animal itself is not mentioned but merely hinted at.

More Implied Metaphor Examples:

• The night sky was a dark blanket over the city.
• His anger boiled and spilled over.
• The scent of his cologne lingered in the air, a sweet memory of him.
• The problem is a thorn on my side.
• Her words were a warm embrace.
• The politician was a snake in the grass.
• The coffee shop was a beacon of warmth on a cold day.
• The dancer was a butterfly, graceful and light on her feet.
• The news was a dagger in my heart.
• The entrepreneur was a shark in the business world.
• The athlete was a cheetah on the track.
• The music was a river of emotion.
• His words were a hammer that struck deep.
• The child was a flower in bloom, growing stronger each day.
• The team was a well-oiled machine, working together seamlessly.
• The story was a maze, with twists and turns at every corner.
• The painting was a window into the artist’s soul.
• The city streets were a jungle, full of danger and excitement.
• The problem was a knot that needed to be untangled.
• Her voice was a symphony, filling the room with beauty and harmony

Visual Metaphor Examples

A visual metaphor uses images as a medium to communicate a message without saying it outright.

For example, the picture of “a person in a wheelchair cheering” may not mean much in isolation. Still, if the project leader wishes to establish a theme – namely, “smile in the face of adversity” – the image might be useful in giving away that intended interpretation.

• A heart-shaped lock and key , used to represent love or the idea of unlocking someone’s heart.
• A ship sailing through rough waters , used to represent overcoming challenges or navigating through difficult times.
• A puzzle with missing pieces , used to represent something that is incomplete or needs to be solved.
• A broken chain , used to represent freedom or breaking free from something.
• A maze or labyrinth , used to represent a complex problem or difficult situation that requires navigation and persistence.
• A tree with deep roots , used to represent stability, strength, and the idea of being grounded.
• A mirror reflecting an image , used to represent self-reflection or the idea of looking within oneself.

Extended Metaphor Examples

Extended metaphors are often employed in heavy literary work, especially poems or novels. They’re still comparisons between unlike things but extend beyond the mere sentence structure, spanning multiple paragraphs, lines, or stanzas.

One classic example can be found in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, where Juliet is described as a sun by her lover, all the while fleshing out the various traits proper to the celestial body, like its brightness and orientation.

More Extended Metaphor Examples:

• Life is a journey, and we are all just travelers on the road of existence.
• Love is a rose, beautiful and delicate, but also capable of causing pain with its thorns.
• The world is a stage, and we are all actors playing our assigned roles.
• Hope is a beacon, shining bright in the darkness and guiding us towards a better tomorrow.
• Time is a river, constantly flowing forward and impossible to stop or control.
• Knowledge is a key, unlocking doors of opportunity and opening up new worlds of understanding.
• Dreams are seeds, planted in the fertile soil of our minds, waiting to grow and bloom into reality.
• Friendship is a shelter, offering protection and comfort during life’s storms.
• Success is a mountain, a difficult climb that requires strength, perseverance, and determination.
• Trust is a fragile vase, easily shattered and difficult to repair.

Dead Metaphor Examples

Dead metaphors originally had a drastically different meaning but largely lost it due to frequent usage in other contexts.

Example: Everyone now assumes that “falling in love” is synonymous with becoming enamored without pondering about the physical act of “falling.”

It is debated among experts whether a dead metaphor is, in fact, a  true  one, especially when considering it doesn’t follow the underlying structure proper to this figure of speech.

More Dead Metaphor Examples:

• Foot of the bed – originally referred to the foot of a bed, but now used to describe the end of anything.
• Face of the clock – originally referred to the clock’s dial, but now used to describe the front of anything.
• Arm of a chair – originally referred to the armrest of a chair, but now used to describe the side of anything.
• Heart of the matter – originally referred to the core of an issue, but now used to describe the main point of anything.
• Head of the class – originally referred to the student with the highest academic standing, but now used to describe the best performer in any field.
• Eye of the storm – originally referred to the calm center of a hurricane, but now used to describe a peaceful moment amidst a crisis.
• Mouth of a river – originally referred to the opening of a river into a larger body of water, but now used to describe the source of anything.
• Footing the bill – originally referred to paying the bill with one’s foot, but now used to describe paying for something.
• Shooting off at the mouth – originally referred to firing a gun without thinking, but now used to describe speaking without thinking.
• Hand in hand – originally referred to holding hands, but now used to describe things that go together well

Mixed Metaphor Examples

In a mixed metaphor, the writer or speaker blends two different metaphor types, sometimes resulting in absurd comparisons that border on satire at times. Usually, the person uttering these metaphors is so cognizant of their figurative meaning that they fail to discern how ridiculous the statement sounds in its literal sense.

Example: “Birds of a feather have left the station”

This metaphor combines two wholly incompatible comparisons: “Birds of a feather flock together” and “the train has left the station.” There is nothing undergirding this statement other than the fact that it’s “grammatically correct.”

More Mixed Metaphor Examples:

• “We’ll burn that bridge when we come to it.” (Combining “burning bridges” and “crossing bridges”)
• “He’s a loose cannonball on a sinking ship.” (Combining “loose cannon” and “sinking ship”)
• “She’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing, but the cat’s out of the bag.” (Combining “wolf in sheep’s clothing” and “cat’s out of the bag”)
• “I’ll ride this train until the wheels come off.” (Combining “riding a train” and “wheels come off”)
• “He’s a fish out of water who’s trying to climb the corporate ladder.” (Combining “fish out of water” and “climbing the corporate ladder”)
• “Let’s take the bull by the horns and grab the tiger by the tail.” (Combining “take the bull by the horns” and “grab the tiger by the tail”)

By looking at the metaphor in a more profound way, we have discovered that it is a form of figure of speech which replaces the name of an item, situation or action with something that it is not. It is a more creative and expressive way to show the literal meaning of something without using literal speech.

Metaphors are extremely common in spoken English and can be regularly heard in day to day conversation. They are also very popular for use in writing, whether that is in song, script , poetry or otherwise, enabling the writer to add more emotional and deep meaning to a statement.

Metaphor Infographic

Frequently Asked Questions on Metaphors

What is a metaphor?

A metaphor tries to integrate ideas that seem unrelated to convey an expression that can grab the audience’s attention. In other words, it’s a “figure of speech” where an idea, action, or object is described in a manner that shouldn’t be reckoned as “literally true.”

What are some examples of a metaphor?

Some common examples of metaphors include “life is a journey,” “time is money,” and “her words were music to his ears.”

Jump to full examples

What is a simile and a metaphor examples?

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using the words “like” or “as”. For example, “Her eyes sparkled like diamonds” is a simile that compares the brightness of someone’s eyes to the brightness of diamonds.

A metaphor, on the other hand, is a figure of speech that compares two things by saying one thing is another thing. For example, “Life is a journey” is a metaphor that compares the experience of living to the act of traveling. Another example could be “He is a shining star” which compares someone’s talent or personality to the brightness of a star.

What is an extended metaphor?

An extended metaphor is a literary device used to compare two things in a more elaborate and complex manner than a simple metaphor. It works by extending a comparison throughout a piece of writing, usually through multiple sentences or even an entire text.

For example, in John Donne’s poem “No Man Is an Island,” he compares individuals to parts of a larger world, stating “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” This metaphor is extended throughout the poem to make a statement about interdependence and the interconnectedness of all people.

Learn more.  

Metaphors Video

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25 Metaphors for Writing

The vibrant world of metaphors for writing, where the power of language transcends mere words and takes on a life of its own. In this exploration, we will delve into various metaphors that paint a vivid picture of the writing process.

Each metaphor is a lens through which we can view the art of writing, revealing its complexities and nuances. Let’s embark on a journey of words that go beyond mere communication, forming a symphony of expression and creativity.

Metaphors for Writing

1. the pen is mightier than the sword.

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that the power of words and ideas is stronger and more influential than physical force or violence.

In a Sentence: In the realm of literature, the pen is not just a writing instrument; it becomes a formidable force that shapes minds and ideologies, proving mightier than the sword.

2. A Blank Canvas

Meaning: This metaphor likens a blank piece of paper or a blank screen to a blank canvas, suggesting that the writer has the opportunity to create something new and original.

In a Sentence: Facing the blank canvas of a new writing project, the author feels the exhilarating freedom to paint a literary masterpiece with the strokes of imagination.

3. A Tapestry of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the creation of a tapestry, with words and ideas being woven together to create a cohesive and intricate whole.

In a Sentence: In the hands of a skillful writer, each word becomes a thread, weaving seamlessly into a tapestry of emotions and ideas that captivates the reader.

4. A Symphony of Language

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the creation of music, with words and ideas coming together to form a harmonious and pleasing composition.

In a Sentence: The writer orchestrates a symphony of language, where each word plays a unique note, contributing to the harmonious melody of the narrative.

5. A Journey of the Mind

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that writing is a way of exploring and discovering new ideas, much like a journey through unfamiliar territory.

In a Sentence: Embarking on a literary journey, the writer navigates uncharted realms of thought, discovering hidden landscapes of imagination.

6. A Garden of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the cultivation and growth of a garden, with words and ideas being carefully nurtured and tended.

In a Sentence: In the writer’s garden, ideas bloom like vibrant flowers, each word a carefully nurtured seed that sprouts into a landscape of literary beauty.

7. A House of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the construction of a house, with words and ideas being carefully arranged to create a solid and coherent structure.

In a Sentence: The writer builds a house of words, crafting a narrative architecture that provides both stability and intrigue for the reader.

8. A Puzzle of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the creation of a puzzle, with words and ideas fitting together to form a cohesive whole.

In a Sentence: As the writer assembles the puzzle of words, each piece falls into place, revealing a complete and satisfying picture for the reader to unravel.

9. A Mosaic of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the creation of a mosaic, with words and ideas being arranged and pieced together to create a colorful and intricate design.

In a Sentence: The writer skillfully arranges words into a mosaic of emotions and images, creating a literary masterpiece that dazzles and captivates.

10. A River of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a flowing river, with words and ideas flowing smoothly and naturally together.

In a Sentence: The writer’s words flow like a gentle river, carrying the reader on a journey through the narrative’s twists and turns with effortless grace.

11. A Fireworks Display of Language

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a fireworks display, with words and ideas being bright and colorful and creating a sense of excitement and wonder.

In a Sentence: The writer’s language bursts forth like a fireworks display, captivating the reader with the brilliance and intensity of each carefully crafted word.

12. A Ladder of Language

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a ladder, with words and ideas being used to climb higher and reach new heights of understanding and insight.

In a Sentence: With each rung of the literary ladder, the writer ascends to new levels of comprehension, offering the reader a panoramic view of knowledge and enlightenment.

13. A Painting with Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the creation of a painting, with words and ideas being used to create a visual and expressive representation of a subject.

In a Sentence: The writer’s words become strokes of a brush, painting a vivid canvas that immerses the reader in the rich colors and textures of the narrative.

14. A Sculpture of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the creation of a sculpture, with words and ideas being shaped and molded to form a three-dimensional object.

In a Sentence: The writer sculpts the narrative with precision, molding words into a tangible and evocative form that engages the reader on multiple levels.

15. A Palette of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the selection and use of colors on a palette, with words and ideas being chosen and arranged to create a particular effect or mood.

In a Sentence: The writer carefully selects from a palette of words, infusing the narrative with hues that evoke emotions and set the tone for the reader’s experience.

16. A Toolbox of Language

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to the use of tools, with words and ideas being used to accomplish a specific task or purpose.

In a Sentence: Equipped with a toolbox of language, the writer skillfully employs words as instruments, shaping the narrative with precision and expertise.

17. A Map of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a map, with words and ideas being used to guide the reader through a particular topic or idea.

In a Sentence: The writer unfolds a map of words, guiding the reader on a literary journey that navigates the intricate terrain of ideas and perspectives.

18. A Theater of the Mind

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a play, with words and ideas being used to create a vivid and immersive experience for the reader.

In a Sentence: The writer stages a theater of the mind, where the reader becomes an active participant in the unfolding drama of the narrative.

19. A Bridge of Words

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a bridge, with words and ideas being used to connect and facilitate communication between different ideas or perspectives.

In a Sentence: The writer constructs a bridge of words, spanning the gap between disparate thoughts and fostering a connection between the author and the reader.

20. A Window Into the Soul

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a window, with words and ideas being used to provide a glimpse into the inner thoughts and feelings of the writer.

In a Sentence: Through the writer’s words, the reader peers into a window into the soul, gaining insight into the depths of the author’s emotions and perspectives.

21. A Mirror of the World

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a mirror, with words and ideas being used to reflect and reveal the complexities and nuances of the world around us.

In a Sentence: The writer’s words serve as a mirror, reflecting the intricate tapestry of the world and inviting the reader to see familiar landscapes in a new and insightful light.

22. A Lens Into the Past

Meaning: This metaphor compares writing to a lens, with words and ideas being used to focus and examine the events and experiences of the past.

In a Sentence: The writer’s words act as a lens, bringing historical events into sharp focus and allowing the reader to explore the past with clarity and understanding.

In the kaleidoscope of metaphors for writing, each comparison offers a unique perspective on the art of expression. From the might of the pen to the vivid imagery of a fireworks display, writers wield a diverse array of tools to craft narratives that resonate with readers. As we conclude this exploration, may these metaphors inspire you to view writing not merely as a skill but as a rich tapestry of creativity and communication, where words become the threads that weave the fabric of human connection.

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Popular Metaphor

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Metaphors are timeless linguistic tools that infuse language with imagery and depth, making them a staple in literature, communication, and everyday expressions. This collection highlights Popular Metaphor Examples that have woven themselves into the fabric of language, from Shakespeare’s eloquent prose to contemporary idioms. Exploring these metaphors not only unveils their universal appeal but also offers insight into the power of figurative language to convey complex ideas and evoke emotions.

What is the Most Popular Metaphor?

Pinpointing the absolute “most popular” metaphor is challenging due to the vast and diverse ways metaphors are used across cultures, languages, and contexts. However, one of the most universally recognized and enduring metaphors is “ Time is Money .” This easy metaphor draws a parallel between time and the value placed on currency, conveying the idea that time, like money, should be used wisely and not wasted. It has permeated various fields, from literature to business, showcasing the metaphor’s ability to succinctly convey complex concepts.

100 Most Popular Metaphor Examples

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• “The world is your oyster”: The world is full of opportunities waiting to be seized, just like an oyster contains a pearl within its shell.
• “Time is money”: Time should be valued and managed effectively, much like financial resources.
• “He’s a real snake”: Someone is deceitful or untrustworthy, paralleling their behavior with a snake’s traits.
• “Love is a battlefield”: Love’s challenges are compared to the conflicts of a battlefield.
• “Life is a rollercoaster”: Life has its ups and downs, twists and turns, like a rollercoaster.
• “The early bird catches the worm”: Being proactive yields advantages, similar to an early bird getting food.
• “Her smile lights up the room”: A smile’s positivity and brightness are paralleled with illuminating a space.
• “The sun rose on his horizon”: A positive change is symbolized by the rising sun.
• “She’s a breath of fresh air”: Someone’s presence is refreshing and invigorating.
• “Fear is a shadow”: Fear’s presence and influence are likened to a shadow.
• “Life is a journey”: Life’s continuous growth and discovery are compared to a journey.
• “He’s a black sheep”: Calling someone a “black sheep” indicates they’re different from the rest, often negatively.
• “She’s a shining star”: Someone’s exceptional qualities and radiance are likened to a star.
• “The world is a book”: The world offers knowledge and experience, similar to a book.
• “Knowledge is power”: Knowledge empowers individuals, just like power does.
• “Love is a flame”: Love’s intensity, warmth, and ignition are paralleled with a flame.
• “His dreams took flight”: Dreams can soar and become reality.
• “The storm of emotions”: Emotions’ intensity and turbulence are paralleled with a storm.
• “Chasing dreams”: Pursuing aspirations with determination is likened to chasing a moving target.
• “Time flies”: Time’s swift passage is compared to the rapid movement of birds or aircraft.
• “The pen is mightier than the sword”: Words’ power is compared to a weapon that can effect change.
• “She’s a diamond in the rough”: Someone’s potential for greatness is highlighted, despite their current rough exterior.
• “You’re my rock”: Someone’s unwavering support is paralleled with a rock’s stability.
• “He’s walking on thin ice”: Someone is in a risky situation, paralleling it with walking on thin ice.
• “Her heart of gold”: Someone’s kind and generous nature is likened to a heart of gold.
• “A sea of faces”: A crowd’s many faces are vividly described.
• “A glimmer of hope”: Hope’s small but significant presence is likened to a glimmer.
• “A web of lies”: Lies’ complexity and entanglement are symbolized by a web.
• “His dreams were shattered”: Dreams are portrayed as something fragile that can break.
• “He’s a pillar of strength”: Someone’s reliability and supportiveness are paralleled with a pillar.
• “Love is blind”: Love doesn’t see faults, much like blindness.
• “She’s as busy as a bee”: Someone’s busyness is compared to the industrious nature of a bee.
• “His eyes were daggers”: Eyes’ intensity is paralleled with the sharpness of daggers.
• “Her voice is music to my ears”: Someone’s voice is as pleasing as the beauty of music.
• “Her laughter is music”: Comparing laughter’s pleasantness to the beauty of music.
• “She’s a firecracker”: Someone’s energy and enthusiasm are likened to a firecracker.
• “The sun sets on his dreams”: Symbolizing dreams ending with the setting sun.
• “He’s as busy as a bee”: Comparing someone’s busyness to the industrious nature of a bee.
• “Her smile is a ray of sunshine”: Describing someone’s smile as a positive and radiant presence.
• “Love is a delicate flower”: Equating love to a fragile flower, emphasizing its vulnerability.
• “His heart is a fortress”: Someone’s heart is paralleled with a strong and protected fortress.
• “The world is a canvas”: Viewing the world as a canvas implies its potential for creativity and expression.
• “Her tears were a river”: Tears’ abundance is paralleled with the flow of a river.
• “He’s a mountain of wisdom”: Comparing someone to a mountain emphasizes their vast knowledge and insight.
• “Life’s a stormy sea”: Likening life’s challenges and uncertainties to the turbulence of a stormy sea.
• “Her smile is a beacon”: Describing someone’s smile as a guiding light and source of positivity.
• “Love is a fragile thread”: Equating love to a delicate thread underscores its vulnerability and need for care.
• “His dreams are skyscrapers”: Dreams’ ambitious nature is paralleled with the towering heights of skyscrapers.
• “Life is a melody”: Highlighting life’s harmony, rhythm, and interconnectedness, similar to a musical melody.
• “Her voice is a velvet glove”: Describing someone’s voice as soothing and gentle, like a velvet glove.
• “Love is a secret garden”: Equating love to a hidden garden emphasizes its beauty, intimacy, and exclusivity.
• “His courage is a roaring lion”: Comparing someone’s courage to the fierce and powerful nature of a lion’s roar.
• “Life is a puzzle”: Highlighting life’s complexity and the need to piece various aspects together.
• “Time is a thief”: Characterizing time as a “thief” that steals moments and opportunities.
• “Life is a journey”: Highlighting the process of growth and discovery.
• “He’s a black sheep”: Indicating someone is different from the rest.
• “Knowledge is power”: Linking knowledge to power and empowerment.
• “The sun rose on his horizon”: Symbolizing a positive change or new beginning.
• “The storm of emotions”: Capturing the intensity of emotions.
• “Fear is a monster”: Comparing fear to a “monster” magnifies its impact.
• “Life is a dance”: Highlighting movement and rhythm in life.
• “She’s a diamond”: Signifying someone’s exceptional qualities and value.
• “Hope is a light at the end of the tunnel”: Symbolizing hope’s guiding role.
• “A sea of faces”: Depicting a crowd vividly.
• “Friendship is a bond”: Emphasizing connection in friendship.
• “The city that never sleeps”: Describing an active city.
• “Fear is a shadow”: Comparing fear to a “shadow” implies its influence.
• “Time is a river”: This metaphor views time as a flowing river.
• “Life’s a balancing act”: Likening life to a “balancing act” underscores managing responsibilities.
• “Her eyes are the windows to her soul”: This metaphor suggests eyes reveal inner thoughts

Popular Metaphors for Essays

Explore creative comparisons of simple metaphors that transform the writing process into a journey of discovery and puzzle-solving, guiding readers through thoughtful dialogues and structured narratives.

• “An essay is a journey”: Describing the process of exploration and discovery within an essay.
• “An essay is a puzzle”: Portraying the complexity of organizing thoughts and ideas in an essay.
• “An essay is a canvas”: Emphasizing the creativity and expression involved in crafting an essay.
• “An essay is a conversation”: Comparing writing an essay to engaging in a dialogue with readers.
• “An essay is a building”: Illustrating the structured and layered nature of constructing an essay.
• “An essay is a mirror”: Highlighting how essays can reflect the writer’s thoughts and perspectives.
• “An essay is a map”: Conveying the idea that essays guide readers through a logical progression.
• “An essay is a journey through time”: Describing how essays explore historical or evolving concepts.
• “An essay is a seed”: Signifying the potential for ideas to grow and develop within an essay.
• “An essay is a treasure hunt”: Equating essay reading to uncovering valuable insights.

Popular Metaphors for Kids

Discover  metaphors for kids  that liken elements of a child’s world to magical tools like wands, stars, keys, and puzzles, fostering curiosity, growth, and connections.

• “Imagination is a magic wand”: Comparing imagination to a tool that conjures creativity.
• “Dreams are like stars”: Portraying dreams as guiding lights in a child’s mind.
• “Curiosity is a key”: Equating curiosity to unlocking knowledge and discoveries.
• “Friendship is a sturdy bridge”: Depicting friendship as a strong connection between individuals.
• “Growing up is climbing a ladder”: Illustrating the process of maturation as ascending steps.
• “Learning is a treasure hunt”: Describing education as an exciting search for knowledge.
• “A smile is a ray of sunshine”: Likening smiles to bringing warmth and positivity to others.
• “Families are like puzzle pieces”: Portraying family members as essential parts of a bigger picture.
• “Love is a hug for the heart”: Equating love to an emotional embrace.
• “Courage is a superhero cape”: Comparing courage to the empowering qualities of a superhero’s cape.

Popular Metaphors for Love

Experience the deep emotions of love through metaphors that paint love as a blossoming journey, a fiery flame, a harmonious symphony, or a sanctuary of comfort.

• “Love is a journey”: Conveying the continuous growth and discovery in a loving relationship.
• “Love is a flame”: Equating love to an intense and warm fire.
• “Love is a garden”: Describing love as a space that needs nurturing and care to thrive.
• “Love is a symphony”: Likening love to the harmonious arrangement of music.
• “Love is a dance”: Comparing love to a rhythmic and fluid dance.
• “Love is a binding thread”: Signifying love’s connection and unity between individuals.
• “Love is a sanctuary”: Portraying love as a safe and comforting refuge.
• “Love is a sunrise”: Equating love to the gradual and beautiful emergence of a new day.
• “Love is a journey to the stars”: Illustrating the transcendent and aspirational nature of love.
• “Love is a book”: Describing love as a story with chapters of growth and experiences.

Popular Metaphors on Anger

Capture the intense feelings of anger with metaphors that compare it to boiling pots, stormy seas, wildfires, and clenched fists, conveying its powerful and dynamic nature.

• “Anger is a boiling pot”: Equating anger to something that simmers and boils over.
• “Anger is a stormy sea”: Comparing anger’s intensity to the turbulence of a sea during a storm.
• “Anger is a wildfire”: Describing anger’s rapid and destructive nature, like a wildfire.
• “Anger is a pressure cooker”: Likening anger to something that builds up pressure until released.
• “Anger is a thunderclap”: Equating anger to a sudden and loud burst, like thunder.
• “Anger is a clenched fist”: Describing anger’s tension and readiness to strike.
• “Anger is a volcano”: Comparing anger’s eruption to the explosive release of a volcano.
• “Anger is a storm cloud”: Portraying anger as a dark and brooding presence.
• “Anger is a rattling cage”: Signifying the sense of being confined and agitated when angry.
• “Anger is a red-hot coal”: Illustrating anger’s burning and searing sensation.

Popular Metaphors in Advertising

Uncover the art of persuasion through metaphors in advertising , where products become game-changers, services act as lifelines, and branding creates bonds of trust.

• “Product is a game-changer”: Highlighting how a product transforms the status quo.
• “Service is a lifeline”: Equating a service to a vital support system.
• “Quality is a gold standard”: Comparing high quality to the revered status of gold.
• “Innovation is a leap forward”: Describing innovation as a bold and significant advancement.
• “Brand is a trusted friend”: Likening a brand to a reliable and supportive friend.
• “Experience is a journey”: Portraying an experience as a guided exploration.
• “Customer satisfaction is a key ingredient”: Equating customer satisfaction to a crucial component.
• “Price is a value proposition”: Describing pricing as a representation of value offered.
• “Brand loyalty is a bond”: Comparing brand loyalty to a strong and lasting connection.
• “Advertising is a spotlight”: Illustrating advertising’s role in highlighting products or ideas.

Popular Metaphors for Action

Embark on a metaphorical journey of action, stepping into arenas, casting stones, lighting torches, and setting sails to create impactful changes.

• “Taking action is stepping into the arena”: Equating action to engaging in a significant challenge.
• “Taking action is casting a stone into the pond”: Portraying action as creating ripples of impact.
• “Taking action is lighting a torch”: Comparing action to igniting a source of guidance.
• “Taking action is setting sail”: Describing action as embarking on a journey of progress.
• “Taking action is building a bridge”: Likening action to constructing connections and solutions.
• “Taking action is writing a story”: Equating action to creating a narrative of change.
• “Taking action is a leap of faith”: Portraying action as a bold and uncertain step forward.
• “Taking action is planting a seed”: Describing action as initiating growth and transformation.
• “Taking action is a spark in the dark”: Comparing action to kindling light in the midst of challenges.
• “Taking action is catching the wind”: Illustrating action as harnessing momentum and progress.

Popular Metaphors for Growth

With these Mission Statements for Business Growth, Visualize personal development as blossoming flowers, climbing vines, building foundations, and journeys to summits, capturing the essence of growth and transformation.

• “Growth is a blossoming flower”: Equating growth to the beautiful unfolding of a flower.
• “Growth is a climbing vine”: Comparing growth to the upward ascent of a vine.
• “Growth is a building foundation”: Describing growth as the sturdy base of progress.
• “Growth is a journey to the summit”: Likening growth to a challenging yet rewarding ascent.
• “Growth is a widening river”: Equating growth to the expansion and deepening of knowledge.
• “Growth is a branching tree”: Portraying growth as the branching out of new possibilities.
• “Growth is a sunrise”: Describing growth as the gradual emergence of potential.
• “Growth is a turning page”: Comparing growth to the unfolding chapters of a story.
• “Growth is a sculptor’s chisel”: Illustrating growth as the intentional shaping of progress.
• “Growth is a rising tide”: Equating growth to the incremental rise of opportunity.

Popular Metaphors for Family

Understand family bonds through metaphors that liken families to tight-knit fabrics, sturdy shelters, shared recipes, and lifelong journeys, showcasing the depth of connections.

• “Family is a tight-knit fabric”: Depicting family members as interwoven and supportive.
• “Family is a sturdy shelter”: Equating family to a safe and comforting haven.
• “Family is a shared recipe”: Comparing family to the blending of unique ingredients.
• “Family is a lifelong journey”: Describing family as a continuous and evolving experience.
• “Family is a puzzle”: Likening family to a collection of essential pieces that fit together.
• “Family is a garden of relationships”: Portraying family as a space for nurturing connections.
• “Family is a guiding star”: Equating family to a constant source of direction and support.
• “Family is a book of memories”: Describing family as a collection of shared experiences.
• “Family is a circle”: Comparing family to an unbroken and inclusive ring.
• “Family is a tree with deep roots”: Illustrating family’s enduring and foundational nature.

Popular Metaphors for Sad Emotion

Feel the weight of emotions with metaphors that compare sadness to heavy burdens, gray clouds, sinking feelings, and broken melodies, expressing the depths of sorrow.

• “Sadness is a heavy burden”: Describing sadness as something that weighs down the heart.
• “Sadness is a gray cloud”: Equating sadness to a somber and lingering presence.
• “Sadness is a sinking feeling”: Comparing sadness to a gradual descent into emotional turmoil.
• “Sadness is a broken melody”: Likening sadness to a discordant and melancholic tune.
• “Sadness is a fading star”: Describing sadness as the gradual dimming of positivity.
• “Sadness is a silent room”: Portraying sadness as a quiet and isolating experience.
• “Sadness is a closed door”: Equating sadness to the sense of being shut off from happiness.
• “Sadness is an empty vessel”: Comparing sadness to a void that needs to be filled.
• “Sadness is a winter landscape”: Illustrating sadness as a cold and desolate emotional state.
• “Sadness is a broken mirror”: Depicting sadness as a fractured reflection of one’s emotions.

Popular Metaphors for Excitement

Experience exhilarating emotions with metaphors that liken excitement to sparks, bubbling cauldrons, rollercoasters, and crackling fires, igniting enthusiasm and joy.

• “Excitement is a spark”: Describing excitement as a sudden and invigorating burst.
• “Excitement is a bubbling cauldron”: Equating excitement to a joyful and effervescent energy.
• “Excitement is a rollercoaster”: Comparing excitement to the ups and downs of a thrilling ride.
• “Excitement is a crackling fire”: Likening excitement to the lively and dynamic flames of a fire.
• “Excitement is a rising tide”: Describing excitement as a surge of positive anticipation.
• “Excitement is a whirlwind”: Portraying excitement as a swirling and exhilarating experience.
• “Excitement is a vibrant color”: Equating excitement to the vividness and liveliness of color.
• “Excitement is a drumroll”: Comparing excitement to the building rhythm of a drumroll.
• “Excitement is a shooting star”: Illustrating excitement as a fleeting yet captivating phenomenon.
• “Excitement is a full moon”: Depicting excitement as a radiant and luminous emotion.

Popular Metaphors in Music

Dive into the world of  metaphors in song and music that paint melodies as threads woven in time, rhythms as heartbeats, and lyrics as windows to the soul, capturing the essence of musical expression.

• “Music is a language of the soul”: Equating music to a means of profound emotional expression.
• “Melodies are threads woven in time”: Describing melodies as intricate and interwoven elements.
• “Rhythm is the heartbeat of music”: Comparing rhythm’s vital role to the heartbeat’s rhythm.
• “Harmony is a tapestry of notes”: Likening harmonious arrangements to intricately woven tapestries.
• “Music is a painting of emotions”: Portraying music as a visual representation of feelings.
• “Chords are the building blocks of music”: Equating chords to essential components in musical composition.
• “Music is a journey through soundscapes”: Describing music as a voyage through auditory landscapes.
• “Lyrics are windows to the artist’s soul”: Comparing lyrics to revealing glimpses into the artist’s emotions.
• “Music is a time traveler”: Illustrating how music can transport listeners across eras and emotions.
• “Melodies are whispers of the heart”: Depicting melodies as tender and heartfelt expressions.

How to Use Popular Metaphors?

Using metaphors effectively can greatly enhance communication, creativity, and understanding in various contexts. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use metaphors:

• Identify the Concept: Determine the abstract concept or idea you want to convey. It could be an emotion, relationship, process, or any complex concept that you wish to simplify or make more relatable.
• Choose a Familiar Image: Select a concrete and familiar image or object that can serve as a metaphor for the chosen concept. The image should have qualities or attributes that resonate with the essence of the concept.
• Draw Parallels: Establish a connection between the chosen image and the concept you want to convey. Identify specific qualities or attributes of the image that align with the qualities of the concept.
• Create Comparison: Craft a sentence or phrase that directly compares the chosen image to the concept. This comparison should highlight the similarities between the two and evoke a vivid mental picture in the reader’s mind.
• Contextual Relevance: Ensure that the metaphor is relevant to the context in which you’re using it. The metaphor should enhance understanding and engagement, not confuse or distract.
• Emotional Impact: Consider the emotional impact you want to achieve. Metaphors can evoke emotions and create a deeper connection with the audience, so choose an image that resonates emotionally.
• Avoid Mixed Metaphors: While using metaphors, be cautious not to mix different metaphors within the same context. Keep the imagery consistent to prevent confusion.
• Consider Your Audience: Tailor your metaphors to your audience’s background, interests, and familiarity. Choose metaphors that your audience can easily understand and relate to.
• Use Varied Metaphors: Don’t rely on the same metaphors repeatedly. Experiment with different metaphors to keep your communication fresh and engaging.
• Practice Precision: Use metaphors that succinctly capture the essence of the concept. Avoid overly elaborate or convoluted comparisons that may dilute the impact.
• Be Poetic and Descriptive: Metaphors allow you to be poetic and descriptive. Use vivid language to paint a clear mental picture for your audience.
• Revise and Refine: Like any form of writing, revise and refine your metaphors. Ensure that they flow smoothly within the context and contribute to the overall message.
• Maintain Consistency: If you use a metaphor at the beginning of your communication, maintain its thread throughout to sustain the imagery and analogy.
• Practice, Learn, and Experiment: Practice using metaphors in various contexts. Observe how other writers and speakers use metaphors effectively, and experiment with your own creativity

How to Write Metaphors That will Become Popular?

Writing metaphors that become popular involves a combination of creativity, relatability, and resonance with your audience. Here’s a guide to help you craft metaphors that capture attention and stand the test of time:

• Understand Your Audience: To create popular metaphors, you need to know your target audience well. Understand their interests, experiences, and cultural references so that your metaphors resonate deeply with them.
• Tap into Universal Concepts: Choose concepts that are universally understood and experienced. Metaphors that touch on basic human emotions, relationships, or experiences tend to have broader appeal.
• Be Original: While drawing inspiration from existing metaphors is common, strive to add a unique twist or perspective. Inject your personal creativity to make your metaphors stand out from the crowd.
• Use Simple and Clear Language: Keep your metaphors simple and easy to understand. Overly complex or convoluted comparisons can confuse your audience and detract from the impact.
• Create Vivid Imagery: Paint a vivid mental picture with your metaphor. Use descriptive language that engages the senses and helps your audience visualize the comparison.
• Evoke Emotions: Successful metaphors often tap into emotions. Choose metaphors that evoke strong feelings or associations to connect with your audience on an emotional level.
• Relatability: Make sure your metaphors are relatable to your audience’s daily lives, experiences, and aspirations. Metaphors that feel relevant and relatable are more likely to become popular.
• Surprise and Intrigue: Craft metaphors that surprise and intrigue your audience. Presenting a familiar concept in an unexpected way can capture attention and make your metaphor memorable.
• Cultural Relevance: Incorporate cultural references that are familiar to your audience. This can add an extra layer of connection and resonance to your metaphors.
• Test and Refine: Before sharing your metaphors widely, test them with a small group of trusted individuals. Their feedback can help you refine and improve your metaphors for broader appeal.
• Context Matters: Consider the context in which you’re using the metaphor. The situation, topic, and medium (e.g., written, spoken, visual) can impact how well the metaphor is received.
• Avoid Overuse: While a popular metaphor can gain traction, avoid overusing it to the point of cliché. Metaphors lose their impact when they become overly familiar.
• Be Authentic: Authenticity resonates with audiences. Craft metaphors that align with your voice and values, rather than trying to force a metaphor that doesn’t feel genuine.
• Storytelling Integration: Weave your metaphors into compelling stories. Storytelling adds context and depth to your metaphors, making them more engaging and memorable.
• Stay Timeless: While timely references can make metaphors relevant, strive for a timeless quality. Metaphors that withstand the test of time continue to resonate over the years.
• Engage with Feedback: Pay attention to how your audience responds to your metaphors. Engage in conversations and discussions about the metaphors to gauge their popularity and refine them further.

Remember that popularity can be unpredictable, as it depends on various factors including timing, cultural trends, and the resonance of your metaphor with the audience. While striving for popularity is a worthy goal, creating metaphors that genuinely resonate and connect with your audience should be your primary focus.

Tips for Using Popular Metaphors

Here are some tips to make the most of popular & Easy metaphors :

• Contextual Fit: Ensure the popular metaphor aligns naturally with your message and context.
• Audience Relevance: Choose metaphors that resonate with your audience’s interests and experiences.
• Unique Twist: Add a creative twist to popular metaphors to stand out and capture attention.
• Authentic Alignment: Select metaphors that reflect your voice and values for genuine communication.
• Varied Mediums: Use popular metaphors across different mediums to maximize their impact.
• Layered Meaning: Opt for metaphors that carry deeper meanings to encourage thoughtful engagement.
• Visual Enhancement: Reinforce popular metaphors with visuals to reinforce your message visually.
• Feedback Loop: Pay attention to audience feedback and adjust your use of metaphors accordingly.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Mind cultural nuances to ensure your metaphors are inclusive and respectful.
• Moderation: Use popular metaphors judiciously to maintain their impact and freshness

In the world of language, popular metaphors stand as powerful connectors, bridging complex ideas with tangible imagery. These gems, transcending time and culture, enhance conversations and ignite creativity. With their vivid resonance, they foster understanding, empathy, and shared experiences. As we reflect on their impact, let us embrace the enduring influence of popular metaphors, using them to enrich our expressions and forge deeper connections.

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Metaphors with Meanings, Definition, and Examples

• Updated on  
• Feb 3, 2024

Metaphors are widely used across the English language and hold an important place in exams like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, TOEIC, and many more. She’s the man of the house! What do you think the above sentence implies? The ‘woman’ is being called the ‘man’ to draw a parallel with the idea of taking all the responsibility and being the breadwinner or you can say earner in the house. This was an example of a common metaphor that goes unnoticed in our day-to-day lives!

If you are preparing for English for competitive exams, then this blog on common metaphors with meanings can help you out in many ways. Read on to know more!

This Blog Includes:

What is a metaphor, implied metaphor, visual metaphor, extended metaphor, metaphor examples for kids, common metaphor examples with usage, common examples in literature, common metaphors of life, examples in poems, is it a metaphor or a simile, metaphor vs analogy, metaphors vs similes quiz pdf.

Metaphor (Etymology: ‘ Metaphora ’ in Greek meaning “to transfer”) is an interesting way to emphasize and map certain descriptive qualities of two terms. Metaphors create a beautiful blend between concepts, to form comparisons between a particular behaviour, concept or feeling with something impractical or unrelated to it.

The best examples of abstract metaphors are seen in movies like the Oscar-winner Parasite where the characters are attributed to the quality of leaching off wealth.

Types of Metaphors

Let’s dig deeper and look at the many types of metaphors with a few common types of metaphors mentioned henceforth:

An implied metaphor compares two things without naming one of the things. Here we draw an implication by using the basic formula: A is B.

For example: 1. “Our soldiers were lions in the war .” This means the soldiers fought like lions.

2. “A woman barked a warning at her child.” This implies that the woman is compared to a dog.

One of the most interesting types of metaphors, a visual metaphor compares one thing to a visual image that suggests an association. Visual metaphors are frequently used in advertisements and movies to symbolise or depict a theme, feeling, etc.

For example, the following picture is a visual metaphor that suggests that the Earth is melting like an Ice Cream to indicate the effects of climate change and globalization.

An extended metaphor extends over several lines in a poem, stanza, or passage. These extended metaphors build upon simple metaphors with figurative language and descriptive comparison.

For example, in the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, he makes a comparison between two roads and life choices.

In the initial years of our lives, our brain grasps concepts much faster than adults. teaching metaphors through creative examples can help children develop unique perspectives and understanding about concepts, ideas, and materials. If you want to teach the concept of metaphors to kids, you can use various creative metaphors that children can easily remember. Here are the best metaphor examples for kids.

• Heart of stone: Cruel or stern nature My teacher has a heart of stone .
• The Zoo metaphor : Crowded and noisy The classroom turns into a zoo during recess.
• Time is money : The value of time is as important as money itself. Time is money , my friend!
• Tall tree : Taller in height like a giant He is a tall tree .
• The wind screamed in his face while he was riding the bike. Meaning: The wind is compared with a scream to emphasize on how furiously it blew.
• Go for a walk or you’ll become a couch potato. Meaning: Here, the person is told that he/she will turn fat and bulgy like a potato if they avoid exercising.
• Her heart of stone was the result of the previous unfortunate events in her life. Meaning: In this sentence, the heart is symbolised by a stone, emphasizing on the lack of empathy she developed.
• Her mom warned her about the monsters in the world. Meaning: The denotation of the bad, wicked people is made by monsters.
• He was a diamond among the sea of glass. Meaning: The man (diamond) is said to be unique like a diamond among other ordinary men (sea of glass).
• You’re sitting on a winning lottery. Meaning: The term winning lottery is used to emphasize on a golden opportunity.

Also read about 100 Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences & Meanings

• He was a cheetah in the race. Meaning: The runner’s speed is attributed to the speed of a cheetah.
• You’ll be left in the dust. Meaning: Here leaving one in the dust, implies being left far behind.
• The professor was a guiding light for him. Meaning: The professor is compared with light, so as to help him pave his way easily.
• The curtains of life fell. Meaning: The phrase ‘curtains of life’ is compared to that of a show which has fallen denoting that the person’s life is over.
• Life is a maze. Meaning: Life is being said to have its own navigation as you move ahead with surprises at every turn.
• There’s a rat among us. Meaning: Rats are said to be sneaky animals and are associated with betrayal.
• Her heart sank on hearing the terrible news. Meaning: The sinking of the heart is termed to emphasise on deep sorrow.
• Laughter is the best medicine. Meaning: Laughter is compared with medicine so as to help you heal or recover from an event.
• India’s culture is a salad bowl. Meaning: Salad bowl is a common cultural idea to reflect India’s multiple cultures, yet having their own individual identities.
• His heart was made of gold. Meaning: Here, gold is used to indicate abundance and generosity.
• She was drowning in grief. Meaning: Drowning is used to emphasize the amount of sorrow or problems in a person’s life.
• The mind is an ocean. Meaning: The mind is attributed to its endless capacity and also to characterize calmness.
• Her heart melts when she sees him. Meaning: The melting of the heart means to be sympathetic and compassionate.
• Your words cut deeper than a knife. Meaning: The phrase is used to emphasize the intensity of a certain hurtful speech.
• His lawyer is a shark. Meaning: The lawyer being compared to a shark means the implication of vicious or ruthless behaviour.
• He thinks that the world revolves around him. Meaning: Here, the ‘world revolving around someone’ is used to describe a self-centred person or behaviour.
• The mind is a computer. Meaning: The mechanisms of the computer are compared to the brain.
• Sarojini Naidu is the nightingale of India. Meaning: The attribution of poetry and a melodious voice is associated with the nightingale and hence, the comparison.
• A friend is a treasure. Meaning: The friend is given the attributes ofsingular vs. plural nounssingular vs. plural nouns a treasure being precious and hard to find.
• Love is a rose. Meaning: Rose is used to characterize both- beauty and hardships (Petals and thorns).

Also read about Parts of Speech: Learn Grammar the Right Way

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Metaphors are used by authors , writers , speakers , and poets as interesting devices. They used such metaphors to emphasize an event, situation, or a sensitive matter by using a much stronger concept fit for comparison.

Here are the most common metaphors in Literature:

• “Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice.” – Robert Frost
• “Hold fast to dreams, For when dreams go Life is a barren field, Frozen with snow.” – Langston Hughes
• “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day.” William Shakespeare
• “Hope is the thing with feathers.” – Emily Dickinson
• “The sun was a toddler insistently refusing to go to bed: It was past eight-thirty and still light.” — Fault in Our Stars , John Green
• “Wishes are thorns, he told himself sharply. They do us no good, just stick into our skin and hurt us.” ― A Face Like Glass , Frances Hardinge
• “Love is a battlefield.” – Pat Benatar
• “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” – William Shakespeare
• “Each friend represents a world in us.” – Anais Nin
• “If wits were pins, the man would be a veritable hedgehog.” ― Fly by Night , Frances Hardinge

We often say many metaphors in our everyday life and routine without even realising that we are using them. Here are the most common metaphors used in everyday life:

• Life is a race and we never realise that we are running towards nothing!
• He is the light of my life .
• For this whole year, this room has become my prison .
• Love is a fine wine !
• My heart’s a stereo and it beats for you!
• She is happy as a clam .
• My mind becomes an ocean with calm waves when I meditate.
• Yesterday was a roller-coaster !
• She was fit as a fiddle !
• Doesn’t matter, he is an old flame !

Many famous poets have used metaphors in their poems as it enhances the meaning of the poem. Here are some of the best poems that used metaphors:

• “ All the world is a stage All men and women merely players”- As you Like It by William Shakespeare
• “ Two roads diverged in a yellow wood ,” “And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler” “I took the one less traveled by”- Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
• “’ Hope’ is the thing with feathers ” “. . . That perches in the soul And sings the tune without the words,”- Hope by Emily Dickinson

Simile and Metaphor

Inarguably, the most common comparisons and mistakes people tend to make are between similes and metaphors. Similes are explicit comparisons, e.g. He ran like a cheetah. A metaphorical sentence for the same would be: He was a cheetah in the race. Similes are cognitively more complicated because it includes the addition of cognizing the two objects. Similes include the words ‘as’ and ‘like’ to draw a comparison between two terms. Metaphors instantly help the reader/listener to apply all attributes of the particular concept to another one.

Lifeis likea box of chocolates. This is a Simile

The worldisyour oyster This is a Metaphor

Her mother wasassharpasa tack. This is a Simile

His computer was a dinosaur. This is a Metaphor

‘The simile is also a metaphor. The difference is but slight’. – ‘Aristotle’ by Jonathan Barnes, 1984

While Metaphor and Analogy have the same type of usage, their purpose is different. A metaphor is poetically comparing something with something else while an Analogy is comparing something with something else for an explanatory point.

Also Read: Reported Speech Rules With Exercises

Metaphor (Etymology: ‘Metaphora’ in Greek meaning “to transfer”) is an interesting way to emphasize and map certain descriptive qualities of two terms

Hope these metaphors helped you explore some new terms. Metaphors are the most beautiful form of figurative speech which can help you communicate your thoughts and imaginations poetically. We hope this blog on Adjectival Nouns provided you with all the information. To advance your grammar knowledge and read more informative blogs, check out our Learn English page and don’t forget to follow Leverage Edu .

A creative writer, Sidrah is zealous about enhancing student interaction and engagement. She has majored in psychology and enjoys exploring human history. If not at work, you can find her binging films or strolling on the beach.

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This is what I am looking for!!!! I love it

Thank you for the feedback! We are glad you enjoyed our blog on Common Metaphors. You can check out similar posts like

https://leverageedu.com/blog/50-difficult-words-with-meanings/

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While looking for metaphors, similes and such i came across your lists here. It’s like striking the jackpot! Thank you very much for sharing!!

Thank you for the comment. We are happy to help! Do check out these articles- https://leverageedu.com/blog/idioms-with-examples/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/tongue-twisters/

best post it is useful to me

Thanks for reading. You can further read: Creative Writing Topics Creative Writing Courses in UK Tenses Rules and Examples

Good examples and questions.

What does it mean the metaphor in fault in our star??

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How to Develop a Personalized Metaphor for Your Applications

←How to Use Rhetorical Devices in Your College Essay

How to Get the Perfect Hook for Your College Essay→

Developing a Theme for Your Application

When you’re applying to competitive colleges, you need something that sets you apart from other applicants. This might be a special skill, an interesting characteristic, a unique experience, or even a circumstance beyond your control. One way to express this is through a personal metaphor in your essay. If you can come up with a defining metaphor that manifests throughout your application, you’ll be able to express your character more clearly and give colleges a better sense of who you are. This can tie your personal qualities and accomplishments together in a way that is more likely to resonate with admissions committees. Read on to learn how you can come up with a personalized metaphor for your essays that will set you apart.

How Can You Use a Metaphor in Your Essays

A metaphor is a comparison between two unlike things, tying something—an experience, a person, a thing, a place—to something else. At first glance, the comparison might seem unrelated but when the two ideas are juxtaposed, a new meaning emerges. Unlike a simile, your description doesn’t use “like” or “as,” so the comparison is more implicit. You might also use an analogy, which is similar to a metaphor in some respects. An analogy is another type of comparison, but instead of demonstrating how two things are completely similar, it highlights how two particular characteristics of those things are comparable, and often does use “like” or “as”. “I’m as tired as the day is long” is an example of an analogy, because rather than totally comparing oneself to the day, the speaker is focusing on one particular characteristic in each thing being compared—being tired and the length of the day.

In a metaphor, the comparison becomes a symbol to represent a larger experience or circumstance. Metaphors are commonly used as literary devices. For instance, Shakespeare wrote in As You Like It : “All the world’s a stage / And all the men and women merely players.” This is a quintessential example of a double metaphor, in which the stage represents the world, and players represent all the people—the implicit idea being that life is really a performance.

A metaphor can be a strong device to use in your college essays, but you’ll need to keep a few important considerations in mind. You’ll need to choose something unique to stand out, and describe it well. Use imagery and other rhetorical devices to frame your metaphor. Be descriptive. Also remember that admissions committees read many, many essays. While your experience doesn’t have to be completely unique, the way you describe it does. And you certainly don’t want to write an essay with overused clichés. Colleges have seen hundreds of essays describe how winning a sports game is like conquering life obstacles. Don’t be that person!

Consistency and cohesiveness are also important here. Choose something and stick to it. Don’t try to pack too much into a single thought, because then the metaphor might become too much of a leap. “I’m like bird, because I’m quick on my feet, adventurous, and like to sing” has too many elements. Try to focus on a particular thing—such as an adventurous spirit—and draw it out with examples, anecdotes, and imagery.

Thinking About our Pre-College Experiences Through the Lens of a Metaphor

You don’t have to climb Mount Everest to develop a meaningful metaphor. Colleges care more about how you describe and frame your experiences than the experiences themselves. However, you’re probably not going to find much inspiration from the Sunday you spent watching TV on the couch, so you should make an effort to seek out experiences that inspire you. To start, try pursuing something off the beaten path that interests you over the summer. For example, you might volunteer in another country, take on a unique internship, or gain experience in a profession you plan on pursuing. You might, then, use an aspect of the experience—say, animals you encountered in the wilderness—to highlight the new experiences and adventures you seek out in life: “Seeing a lion on a safari in Africa made me nervous at first, but I soon realized the fear came more from the unknown than the threat the lion posed to me.”

Or, on the flip side of this example, if you’ve had a particular struggle, is there a way to paint a metaphorical picture about it?

Making Your College Application Cohesive

Don’t stretch to hard to fit everything into the metaphor you choose, and don’t try to pack too much into it. You don’t want to make admissions committees have to work to understand what you’re trying to convey. For example, “Working with my teammates to defeat the rival school in football taught me collaboration conquers all” is a bit of a reach, not to mention cliché.

To help you come up with something that defines you and your experiences, make a list of your best qualities and what defines you as a student. Additionally, ask friends, family members, and teachers what they think of when they think about you. Then, make a list of extracurricular activities or other interests you’ve pursued, and try to determine the qualities from the first list each activity brings out. Select one that best exemplifies your personal experiences to write about in your essay. It’s also a good idea to think about particular experiences and anecdotes to illustrate the activity. Also think about imagery you associate with the activity. Does playing piano make you feel peaceful? What other images are associated with peace? Perhaps it transports you to a beach or some other calm setting. Is there a particular time when this feeling was exemplified during a performance or recital?

If you have a particular passion, describe why you love it and what you’ve done to hone and pursue it. Show colleges why it’s meaningful to you. Maybe you’re a writer and have participated in writing programs, contest, and clubs like the school newspaper. Is there an image that comes to mind that illustrates how you’ve made writing your focus?

If you can think of a literal object that works well with your talents and experiences, then great. You could also use a single event or activity to show who you are more generally. For example, you might use debate club to show how you feel like a small-time version of a Supreme Court judge. “One time, when I argued the merits of the public-school system, I pictured myself in a real courtroom, presiding over a trial that would determine the fate of Americans.”

Remember that consistency is key. In Well-Rounded or Specialized? , we explain how it is important to demonstrate passion for a particular specialty or area. Having that passion will help you develop your metaphor, because you will naturally have a theme to exemplify.

Final Thoughts on the Admissions Metaphor

A metaphor is an impressive way to capture the attention of the admissions committee. Remember, you want them to sit up and take notice, so you need to draw them in right away.

Also keep in mind that it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. While having a solid academic record is important, you need to demonstrate that you are unique. That doesn’t mean you have to have had a unique experience. You might have a particularly insightful or interesting way of describing or looking at something—and that makes you unique! Plus, being able to describe the events of your life or your goals for the future through the frame of a metaphor is one way of showing that you are capable of thinking of general trends and patterns in life in a creative way.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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Creative writing ,

Metaphors dos and don’ts.

By Amanda Nicholson

Everyone has heard of metaphors, it’s something most people are taught at school, but are they still relevant to your writing? Yes. 

Undoubtedly, metaphors enhance your writing, whether you’re penning a  novel , short story , poem , or an English assignment. But to use them effectively, it’s important to fully understand what metaphors are in terms of definition, how to not confuse them with similes, and understanding all the different ways they can strengthen your work with examples.

In this article I will guide you through everything you need to know about metaphors, so you too can feel confident using this literary device  to enrich your writing. 

What Is A Metaphor?

A metaphor is a comparison between one thing and something else with similar qualities, providing the reader with a visual image that can be stronger in meaning than further description . 

For instance, I could write a description of someone with long hair by simply saying they have long hair. Or I could use a metaphor and say, ‘Her hair was a flowing golden river’. This second option invokes the image of long, blonde flowing hair tumbling over her shoulders the way water runs over rocks in a river. The reader is more likely to remember the character and perhaps imagine them as someone they know. 

Metaphors also reduce the need to include paragraphs of description or explanation. ‘The World is a stage,’ will have varying meanings for people. Generally, it creates the idea of performing as an actor in your own life. This says a lot (metaphorically speaking) in just a few words.  

When you’re trying to hook the reader and make them see the story the way you do, metaphors can draw the reader in while keeping the story flowing. Too much description detracts from the story and loses readers’ attention. You don’t want to take your reader out of the action . 

By using metaphors, you can capture an image, feeling, or experience in just a few words. When a reader already has pre-existing knowledge of the comparison, they will be able to fill in the blanks to get a fuller picture. 

When used sparingly, metaphors give readers something to think about. Once the words are on the page, we have no further control in how the reader will interpret the metaphor’s meaning, so something which is universally understood has more impact. 

Difference Between A Simile And A Metaphor 

Metaphors and similes both use comparisons to provide a clearer image for readers, in a more creative way than a straightforward description. Analogies can also be used to do this.  

Analogy vs Metaphor: An analogy is still a comparison, but uses a combination of simile and metaphor, and contains more information. One example would be, ‘Her hair whipped backwards and forwards in the wind like an out-of-control river’. It gives a fuller picture of the scene. 

So, what’s the difference between a simile and a metaphor? A simile uses the word ‘like’ or ‘as’ to compare, so would be less direct than a metaphor, but shorter than an analogy. An example of this would be ‘Her hair was like a turbulent river’. A metaphor would shorten this with, ‘Her hair was a turbulent river’. If you ever need to stick to a strict word count, while saying the same thing, the shorter metaphor is one way to help reduce the word count, without losing any of the story. 

Although all similes are metaphors, not all metaphors are similes.  

If you find yourself asking ‘how are similes and metaphors different?’ Here’s a simple answer: 

An indirect comparison is used in a simile, while both make it clear the person or object is being compared to something else. 

• A metaphor – uses ‘is’ to compare. 
• A simile – uses ‘as’ or ‘like’. 

Another example of a metaphor is, ‘Their home was their prison’. A simile would be ‘Their home was like their prison’. If you’re wondering how an analogy would be used to say the same thing, here is an example. ‘After being trapped in their house for weeks, the rain continued to fall and their home became their prison.’  

It gives more information, but also uses more words. And, like with any good analogy, a writer may take their comparison further and add more metaphors to emphasize the point – ‘But there was no visiting hours, no one had come to call for days. They wondered when they would ever be able to escape their confines.’     Very dramatic, and perhaps a bit overkill, but you get the point. 

What Is A Mixed Metaphor?

If you’ve used metaphors before, or researched it for your writing, you may have heard of a mixed metaphor. The simplest explanation is two metaphors used together, which you wouldn’t normally associate with each other. Generally, they don’t work in serious writing. However, if used in the right context, they can work well together despite the contrast. 

If you want to be creative and write some of these yourself, remember they are often humorous so use sparingly. They work less well in serious fiction or poetry.     Here are some mixed metaphor examples. 

• Homework was a breeze, but the new teacher was a thorn in my side. 
• I’m talking to a brick wall here. Do you have a heart of stone? 
• He was a mighty lion, but now he’s a lame duck. 
• That’s music to my ears, let’s blow off some steam to celebrate. 

While these are unlikely to be suitable for literary fiction, they could suit a character who constantly talks in mixed metaphors (if that’s part of their personality and it fits with the story).  

What Is An Implied Metaphor?

There are several types of metaphors, and implied metaphors take the idea of comparison a little further, by comparing people or things in a subtle way. Unlike other metaphors, these imply a comparison without specifically mentioning one of the things being compared. These rely on using a well-known trait, so the reader guesses what is being implied. 

To help you understand, here are some examples:

• With his tail between his legs, he ran away. (Comparing a man to a scared dog without mentioning the dog, but the description is enough to inform the reader of the implied comparison.) 
• She slithered around my boyfriend all night. (A jealous girlfriend using a well-known trait of a snake, to describe her potential love-rival.) 
• The news crew circled the scene. (Comparing the news crew to a pack of vultures who typically circle their prey before swooping in.) 

By using these animals as comparisons, readers will automatically associate the animals’ characteristics in relation to the subject (i.e. the girl is hunting the other woman’s boyfriend like a snake, she’s deadly, she may be poisonous to their relationship, she’s silent, dangerous, and unlikeable). 

Once you understand what implied metaphors are, they are easy to use, and you can add them to your writing in a way the average reader will barely notice. In fact, now you’re aware of implied metaphors, you may notice their usage if you look out for them in the next book you read. 

How To Use Metaphors

By using metaphors, you can vary your descriptions and the visual images you’re trying to create. Some of the best metaphors can be those which people don’t notice, if they’re immersed in your written words. 

But  why  are metaphors used?  

Metaphors are used when the writer wants to bring their work to life in a fresh and creative way. Many readers say when they read a great book, they can see the characters and the actions playing out in their mind. This can be achieved by using metaphors here and there. 

Metaphors aren’t just used in writing novels and short stories, though. A lot of poets make use of metaphor to express a thought or feeling on a deeper level. If done right, poems can have two meanings. 

An example of this is one of my own poems,  Winter Trees . This is about aging and missing the advantages of youth, while overlooking the things which weren’t so great about being young. 

This is expressed in the following lines: 

‘Decorated in baubles and winter soldiers.  

I used to be pretty too, think the winter trees.’  

The first line above shows how the speaker views the younger people around her, and the second line shows how she misses that beauty in herself. The full poem is an implied metaphor, but on the surface can be interpreted as a poem about trees. 

If you’re looking for a guide on how to create a metaphor, check out this more well-known example of metaphors as poetry in ‘ Metaphors’  by Sylvia Plath.

Metaphors: Do

• Switch between different kinds of metaphors in your writing. (This will vary your writing style and keep your writing from becoming repetitive.) 
• Use sparingly. (Nobody wants to read pages of metaphors.) 
• Go with the second or third metaphor you think of. (The first one is likely to be overused.) 
• Use a comparison in your metaphors which readers will understand. (You want your readers to have an immediate understanding of what you’re trying to say.) 
• Use a metaphor which fits with your writing. (Something which doesn’t fit will jolt the reader out of the fictional world you’ve created.) 
• To get used to metaphors, spend time comparing objects in your home, or people you know, to other things. (This will help you see common and not so common comparisons.) 
• Look for metaphors in poetry and stories you read. (This will show you how common they are, and judge what works or doesn’t work, so you can apply them to your own writing or avoid the same mistakes.) 

Metaphors: Don’t

• Don’t clutter the page with them. (They will lose their impact. Less is more when it comes to metaphor usage.)
• Don’t use them if you know they will weaken the description rather than add to it. (They should blend seamlessly into your writing. Use whatever works best for each description.) 
• Avoid mixed metaphors if writing something serious. (These can make your writing seem humorous or silly, and if you’re writing an emotional scene, this can make light of an otherwise serious issue.) 
• Don’t use cliches  or overused metaphors. (Again, unless the aim is to be funny or silly, it can ruin the mood you’re trying to create.) 
• If a metaphor will detract from the story, don’t use it. (Everything about your writing should add something to the story.) 
• Don’t be afraid to experiment. (Even if you never use them, if you’re new to metaphors, the best way to improve is to practice.) 

Time To Practise Some Metaphors

I hope you have found this guide helpful when it comes to the effective use of metaphors. There are lots of different types to choose from in your writing, and each one has its uses. By choosing the right metaphor, you can create powerful and engaging writing.

To practise, go through a story you’ve already written (or write a new one) then change some of the description by using metaphors instead. Compare the two pieces and ask yourself which is more engaging. Time to take a giant leap off the metaphoric edge and spread those writing wings! 

About the author

Amanda Nicholson (who also writes as Amanda Steel) is an author, poet, podcast co-host and copywriter from Manchester. She co-hosts the book review podcast Reading in Bed . Her books include Ghost of Me  (which was a finalist in the Author Elite 2020 awards), two full length poetry books, and several chapbooks. She has also edited two anthologies;  From the Shadows , and  Words to Remember .  Amanda’s poetry has been broadcast on BBC Radio Manchester, and her story  Clown Control  was featured on  The NoSleep Podcast . For more on Amanda, see her blog , Twitter , or Amazon author page .  

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Braiding the ropes: adding second or additional language acquisition to reading and writing metaphors.

1. Introduction

2. the rope as an educational metaphor, 2.1. the reading rope, 2.2. the writing rope, 3. weaving new educational ropes, 3.1. synthesis of second language acquisition theory, 3.2. second language acquisition visuals, 4. synthesizing to braid a new rope, 4.1. lane’s l2+ acquisition rope, 4.1.1. external factors, 4.1.2. social factors, 4.1.3. affective factors, 4.1.4. innate factors, 4.1.5. internal factors, 5. application for current practitioners, 5.1. educator training and coaching, 5.2. translation to instructional strategies, 6. limitations, implications, and conclusions, author contributions, institutional review board statement, informed consent statement, data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

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Lane, J.M.; Kennedy, T.J. Braiding the Ropes: Adding Second or Additional Language Acquisition to Reading and Writing Metaphors. Educ. Sci. 2024 , 14 , 901. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14080901

Lane JM, Kennedy TJ. Braiding the Ropes: Adding Second or Additional Language Acquisition to Reading and Writing Metaphors. Education Sciences . 2024; 14(8):901. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14080901

Lane, Jennifer M., and Teresa J. Kennedy. 2024. "Braiding the Ropes: Adding Second or Additional Language Acquisition to Reading and Writing Metaphors" Education Sciences 14, no. 8: 901. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci14080901

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