What is the difference between a simile and a metaphor?

Both are examples of figurative language, and compare one thing to another. However, whilst a simile states that X is like Y, a metaphor states that X is Y.eg. 'The sun was like a golden coin in the sky' vs 'The sun was a golden coin in the sky'The first is a simile, the second a metaphor

GT
Answered by Gemma T. English tutor

1885 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between a metaphor and a simile?


How do I write an essay?


Can we pinpoint a turning point in Tolstoy's Anna Karenina


How are the themes of Love and Tragedy linked in Shakespeare's play ''Romeo and Juliet?''


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning