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Wordabulary

metaphor

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

A way of describing something by calling it another thing entirely, to suggest they share a quality.

""Time is money" is a metaphor, not a literal statement."

Usage notes

Unlike a simile, a metaphor doesn't use "like" or "as"; it simply states that one thing is another thing.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? ""Time is money" is a _____, not a literal statement."

Answer: metaphor

In your own words, what does "metaphor" mean?

A way of describing something by calling it another thing entirely, to suggest they share a quality.

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