Metaphors

A metaphor is a fun way to describe things. It compares two things by saying one is the other. For example, 'The classroom was a zoo' means the class was wild and noisy. Metaphors help make writing more exciting.

How Metaphors Work

A metaphor does not use the words 'like' or 'as'. Instead, it says one thing is another thing. When we say 'Time is money', we mean time is very valuable. We do not really mean time is dollar bills. Metaphors help us picture ideas in a new way.

Metaphors in Stories

Writers use metaphors to make stories come alive. A poet might say 'The stars are diamonds in the sky'. This helps readers see the stars in a new way. Song writers also love to use metaphors. They can turn plain words into something special.

Fun Facts

• The word metaphor comes from a Greek word that means 'to carry over'.
• Shakespeare used lots of metaphors in his plays.
• Saying 'life is a journey' is a famous metaphor.

Did You Know?

People use about six metaphors every minute when they talk. Most of the time, they do not even notice.