What is a metaphor?

A metaphor describes something by calling it something else, without using 'like' or 'as'. Saying 'the classroom was a zoo' does not mean it really was a zoo, it means it was noisy and wild. Metaphors make writing more powerful and imaginative.

Examples

• The classroom was a zoo.
• Time is a thief.
• He has a heart of gold.

Quick facts

• Unlike a simile, a metaphor does not use 'like' or 'as'.
• A metaphor says one thing is another to make a strong picture.