Unit 6 Lesson 4: Comparisons Flashcards
metaphor
a figure of speech that compares seemingly unlike things without using like or as; “A is B,” although A is not literally the same as B
metaphorical language
words or phrases intended to be taken as a metaphor; language used symbolically to represent something else
prose
non-verse writing; a form based on sentences and paragraphs
Consider these two different ways of describing the same view:
I saw large, dark clouds on the horizon.
Large, dark clouds floated on the horizon like a pod of killer whales.
The first example says what is on the horizon directly and literally, but the second example uses a simile to suggest the clouds are threatening and perhaps even dangerous.
What are similes
Similes use like or as to alert the reader that a comparison is being made. They leave the reader with little doubt that two different things are somehow alike. In the above simile, it would be hard to miss the fact that there are no actual whales flying in the sky. But connecting the dark clouds to the threat of killer whales allows the reader to understand the ominous nature of an oncoming storm.
What are metaphors
Metaphors omit like or as and create an implied comparison between two unlike things. Because metaphors are indirect, they pose some special challenges for readers and writers. For one thing, the reader must figure out how the two things are alike. For example, if an author calls a department store a “forest of merchandise,” do they mean the store is large, impressive, easy to get lost in, or perhaps all three? Sometimes, readers may also struggle to tell whether a statement is meant metaphorically or literally. Skilled authors keep this in mind as they decide when and how to use metaphorical language.
analogy
the comparison of two things for the purpose of explaining, clarifying, or making a point about a difficult or unfamiliar idea by showing how it is similar to something familiar
how does an analogy compare to a simile or a metaphor
. An analogy is a form of comparison that is more extensive than a simile or a metaphor.
What is an analogy
An analogy helps readers think critically, often by showing how an unfamiliar concept is similar to something they are more familiar with.
how long are analogies
Analogies need not be lengthy, but in a story or novel, an author may revisit the same analogy across paragraphs, pages, or even chapters to elaborate and enrich the comparison. In poetry, analogies often contribute to the basic structure of a work—especially in short poems such as sonnets.
which one provdes more detail an analogy simile or metaphor
Because an analogy typically provides greater detail than similes or metaphors, they can clarify or explain a comparison. This can be useful in turning an otherwise vague or cliché comparison into something precise and impactful. Suppose that an author writes the following:
At games, Coach Wilkins was like a tiger—he fiercely defended the team as if they were his cubs.
An author may use a simile as a springboard to a larger concept in an analogy so the reader gets a clearer picture and the author’s point is explained and emphasized.
object-to-function analogy
an unexpected comparison that shows how something works
what purpose does an analogy have
An analogy, a figure of speech that explains one thing in terms of another, can serve many purposes. An analogy helps the reader make connections to an idea or concept in a new way. Analogies make unexpected comparisons. A writer thinks creatively to manipulate language with an analogy, comparing for an effect.
Consider the following two analogies used to describe a department store:
- “a palace, with hall after hall of brightly lit glass and mirrors”
- “an endless maze, with shirts and jackets encroaching like hedges onto the narrow carpeted aisles”
How do these two descriptions help the reader to understand the layout of the store? How do they differ?
Both images make it clear that the store is a large space with many smaller divisions (“hall after hall,” “narrow carpeted aisles”). Analogy (1) treats the size and complexity of the store as grand and impressive, while (2) makes those same features seem confusing and intimidating.
