Metaphor

Pronunciation: /ˈmɛtəˌfɔr/

Definitions of metaphor

noun a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable

Example Sentences

A1 A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two things without using like or as.

A2 She described her sadness as a heavy weight on her shoulders, using a metaphor to convey her emotions.

B1 The author used the metaphor of a ship lost at sea to represent the main character's feelings of isolation.

B2 In the poem, the sunset was compared to a blazing fire in the sky, creating a vivid metaphor for the reader.

C1 The use of extended metaphors throughout the novel added depth and complexity to the characters' relationships.

C2 The artist's paintings were filled with rich metaphors, inviting viewers to interpret the deeper meanings behind each image.

Examples of metaphor in a Sentence

formal The author's use of metaphor throughout the novel added depth to the characters and themes.

informal I like how the singer uses metaphor to describe love in his songs.

slang That movie was so bad, it was a metaphor for my life.

figurative Her smile was a metaphor for sunshine on a cloudy day.

Grammatical Forms of metaphor

• past tense: metaphored
• plural: metaphors
• comparative: more metaphorical
• superlative: most metaphorical
• present tense: metaphors
• future tense: will metaphor
• perfect tense: have metaphored
• continuous tense: is metaphoring
• singular: metaphor
• positive degree: metaphor
• infinitive: to metaphor
• gerund: metaphoring
• participle: metaphored

Origin and Evolution of metaphor

First Known Use: 0015 year

Language of Origin: Latin and Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'metaphor' comes from the Latin word 'metaphora', which in turn comes from the Greek word 'metaphora' meaning 'transfer'.

Evolution of the word: The use of metaphor has evolved over time from a purely linguistic term to a broader concept used in literature, philosophy, and everyday language to describe a figure of speech where a word or phrase is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable.