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

1638 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is a topic sentence and why should I use them?


How do I make sure my essays are always structured well?


Discuss the use of personification in the following quote from Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream: ''Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, and therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind.''


How to Structure an A Level Essay; i.e


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