B2noun 2K

Metaphor

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈmetəfə(r)//ˈmetəfɔː(r)/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈmetəfər//ˈmetəfɔːr/"]/

Meaning of Metaphor

a word or phrase used to describe somebody/something else, in a way that is different from its normal use, in order to show that the two things have the same qualities and to make the description more powerful, for example She has a heart of stone; the use of such words and phrases

In simple words: A way to describe something by saying it is something else, to create an image or idea.

Metaphor in a sentence

• a game of football used as a metaphor for the competitive struggle of life
• the writer’s striking use of metaphor
• ‘This vale of tears’ is a metaphor for the human condition.
• He uses the metaphor of fire to represent hatred.
• The ladder metaphor works in several ways.
• an extended metaphor for human existence
• one of the central metaphors in the book
• the metaphor of life as a journey

How to use Metaphor

Used in literature, speeches, and everyday language. Avoid in very formal contexts where literal language is preferred.

Grammar pattern

metaphor + of/about + object

Memory hint

Think of 'meta' like a hidden meaning; a metaphor is a secret way to show similarity.

Related words

Collocations with Metaphor

• appropriate
• apt
• good
• employ
• invoke
• use
• describe something
• represent something
• imply something
• metaphor for
• metaphor of

Synonyms for Metaphor

• analogy
• symbol
• figure of speech
• comparison
• imagery

Opposites of Metaphor

• literal
• fact
• reality

Common mistakes with Metaphor

• Confused with 'simile' which uses 'like' or 'as'.
• Using metaphors too literally in explanations.
• Failing to recognize metaphors in reading.

Frequently asked questions about Metaphor

What does Metaphor mean?

A way to describe something by saying it is something else, to create an image or idea.

What is the definition of Metaphor?

a word or phrase used to describe somebody/something else, in a way that is different from its normal use, in order to show that the two things have the same qualities and to make the description more powerful, for example She has a heart of stone; the use of such words and phrases

How do you use Metaphor in a sentence?

a game of football used as a metaphor for the competitive struggle of life

Can you give another example of Metaphor?

the writer’s striking use of metaphor

What are synonyms for Metaphor?

Common alternatives include analogy, symbol, figure of speech, comparison, imagery.

What is the opposite of Metaphor?

Opposite meanings include literal, fact, reality.

What words go with Metaphor?

It commonly pairs with appropriate, apt, good, employ, invoke, use, describe something, represent something, imply something, metaphor for, metaphor of.

What are common mistakes when using Metaphor?

Confused with 'simile' which uses 'like' or 'as'. Using metaphors too literally in explanations. Failing to recognize metaphors in reading.

How do you pronounce Metaphor?

US: /["/ˈmetəfər//ˈmetəfɔːr/"]/, UK: /["/ˈmetəfə(r)//ˈmetəfɔː(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Metaphor?

Used in literature, speeches, and everyday language. Avoid in very formal contexts where literal language is preferred.

What CEFR level is Metaphor?

"Metaphor" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.