Metaphor and Simile

Comparisons, we all make them whether we are aware of it or not. We do this for emphasis in making clear a point we’re trying to make. In writing we use comparisons for the same reason, but add to that, visuals. If we want our readers to know just how big something is, we need to go beyond using the word big or huge or even gargantuan. Readers want to SEE the hugeness. Two forms of comparison writers use to accomplish this is:

Simile–Comparing using the words like or as.

• His mouth was thick like paste.
• The cat’s eyes glowed in the dark like twin moons.
• He smile was as bright as the sun.

Metaphor–A direct comparison.

• The warm sand is a blanket.
• The sound of his laughter was a dogs bark.
• The moon is a lightbulb.