simile
UK/ˈsɪməli/US/'simili/
GREC2
Definitions
n.
A figure of speech that compares two things using 'like' or 'as'
明喻（用 like 或 as 把两样事物作比较的修辞手法）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin simile, the neuter of similis ('like'). A simile literally points at a 'likeness' — it says one thing is like another ('brave as a lion'). Contrast metaphor, which says one thing is another.
Root sim still carries 56 more wordsExample Sentences
- 1.
"As busy as a bee" is a classic simile.
- 2.
The poet uses a simile to compare grief to a heavy stone.
Easily Confused
simile vs metaphor — A simile keeps the word 'like' or 'as' (her smile was like sunshine). A metaphor drops it and equates directly (her smile was sunshine). If you can see 'like/as,' it's a simile.