What is the difference between between a metaphor and a simile?

Metaphors and similes are easily confused! Both are methods of description that compare one thing to another. We find them all types of writing but most of all in poetry and fiction prose. A simile using words like: 'as' and 'like' to compare one thing to another. for example:
His hair looked like yellow candyfloss.
On the other hand, a metaphor will make a direct comparison stating that one thing is another. For example:
She had a heart of gold.

RM
Answered by Rob M. English Literature tutor

3477 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

On the significance of the imagery of “words” to the play Othello


Explore the writers’ presentation of their protagonists struggles with identity in The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe


How do I go about answering an essay question?


How do I construct an effective argument in an exam essay?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences