What is the difference between a metaphor and a simile?

A simile is a figure of speech that refers to comparable phrases that are alike in some way (e.g. 'as black as coal'). Contrastingly, a metaphor is a figure of speech that is applied without being the literal truth (e.g. 'he had a heart of gold').  

DO
Answered by Danny O. English Literature tutor

7675 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is analysis and how do I show this?


I've been given London by William Blake to analyse for homework but I'm really struggling. There really aren't that many devices in it. My question is, how does William Blake present powerlessness in London?


How do i write an introduction to my essay?


How does Tennessee Williams create a sense of fantasy and delusion in A Streetcar Named Desire?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning