Metaphore
metaphore is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an
object or action to which it is not literally applicable.
metaphore is a thing regarded as representative or symbolic of something
else, especially something abstract.
Metaphor is a
figure of speech which makes an implicit, implied or hidden comparison between
two things that are unrelated but share some common characteristics. In other
words, a resemblance of two contradictory or different objects is made based on
a single or some common characteristics.
metaphor Is word or phrase for one
thing that is used to refer to another thing in order to show or suggest that
they are similar .
metaphor is a word or phrase used to
compare two unlike objects, ideas, thoughts or feelings to provide a clearer
description .
“He is the black sheep of the family” is a metaphor because he is not a sheep and is not even black. However, we can use this comparison to describe an association of a black sheep with that person. A black sheep is an unusual animal and typically stays away from the herd, and the person you are describing shares similar characteristics.
Furthermore, a metaphor develops a comparison which is different from a simile i.e. we do not use “like” or “as” to develop a comparison in a metaphor. It actually makes an implicit or hidden comparison and not an explicit one.
Functions
From the above arguments, explanations and examples, we can easily infer the function of metaphors; both in our daily lives and in a piece of literature. Using appropriate metaphors appeals directly to the senses of listeners or readers, sharpening their imaginations to comprehend what is being communicated to them.Moreover, it gives a life-like quality to our conversations and to the characters of the fiction or poetry. Metaphors are also ways of thinking, offering the listeners and the readers fresh ways of examining ideas and viewing the world.
