Simile Meaning in English
word
ˈsɪməli
SIM-uh-lee
sˈɪmɪlˌi
SIM-ih-lee
Definition
A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as', to make a description more vivid.
Usage & Nuances
'Simile' is mainly used in literature or descriptive writing. The comparison must use 'like' or 'as'. Do not confuse with 'metaphor', which makes a direct comparison without these words.
Spanish: símilPortuguese (BR): símilePortuguese (PT): símileChinese (Simplified): 明喻Chinese (Traditional): 明喻Hindi: उपमाArabic: تشبيهBengali: উপমাRussian: сравнениеJapanese: 直喩 - 明喩Vietnamese: so sánh (tu từ)Korean: 직유Turkish: benzetmeUrdu: تشبیہIndonesian: simile - perumpamaan
Example Sentences
A common simile is 'as brave as a lion'.
basic
Authors use simile to make their descriptions lively.
basic
A simile often uses 'like' or 'as' in the sentence.
basic
That kid is as fast as lightning—what a great simile!
natural
If you see 'as cold as ice', that's a classic simile.
natural
Teachers often ask students to write a simile in their essays.
natural