Figurative Language versus Literal Language Essay - 24

Figurative Language versus Literal Language - Essay Example An analogy is used to compare two things, and its function is to explain or clarify. An example of an analogy is your brain is like a sponge. An ideal circumstance to use this example would be when explaining how one’s brain is capable of absorbing information - much like a sponge soaks up water. This particular analogy may be misconstrued if the individual hearing this phrase is unaware of the similar functions between a brain and a sponge and that they are both capable of holding a large quantity. A metaphor is when two completely different objects, concepts, or actions are compared. The purpose of a metaphor is to provide a greater comprehension of what is being described. An example of a metaphor is time is money. Time is nothing like money, but this phrase can be appropriately used when the speaker is trying to instill into workers, for example, the importance of not wasting time, which could lead to wasting time. This phrase could be misunderstood if the listener is unable to see how time and money are associated. A simile is a figure of speech that allows two dissimilar things to be directly compared using words â€Å"like† or â€Å"as† to connect them to each other. The purpose of a simile is to reveal the relationship between two completely unlike things. An example of a simile is as busy as a bee. This example best describes how quickly and efficiently that someone is working, comparing them to the energetic work ethics of a bee as it keeps its hive operative. This phrase might lead to misunderstanding if the listener is unfamiliar with the workings and importance of a bee to the success of its hive. A cliche is a phrase that is overused and lacking original thought, often causing the phrase to lose its original meaning. The function of a cliche is to explain a concept with more accuracy than a metaphor or original description. One of the most common cliches is time heals all wounds. This phrase is best used when comforting someone after