Metaphorical Meaning in English
word
Definition
Describes language or expression that compares one thing to another in a non-literal, imaginative way. It means using words as symbols or images, not their direct meanings.
Usage & Nuances
Used in literary, academic, and everyday speech to talk about non-literal meanings. Common with 'metaphor,' 'meaning,' and in discussing art or poetry. Opposite of 'literal.' Do not use for direct, factual descriptions.
Example Sentences
The phrase 'time is a thief' is a metaphorical expression.
basic
Poetry often uses metaphorical language to create powerful images.
basic
She gave a metaphorical answer instead of a direct one.
basic
Sometimes his jokes are so metaphorical that I don't get them.
natural
Don't take his metaphorical comments literally—he just likes to be creative with words.
natural
Her explanation was more metaphorical than scientific, but it helped me understand.
natural