Metaphor

Metaphors are used in communication to help illustrate or explain something by comparing it to something else. Metaphors serve several functions:

help people vividly visualize unfamiliar concepts explain unfamiliar situations meaningfully add variety and interest to a person's writing or conversations create strong images and leave lasting impressions pair the intangible with the literal impact readers and audience members

Metaphors can be useful in expressing the extent or type of feelings a person is experiencing.

"His words cut deeper than a knife."

Words don't materialize into sharp objects. In this metaphor, someone has said something hurtful to another.

Failure isn't fun but it doesn't smell. So, when this metaphor is used, it means one of life's disappointments is on the way.

Here, grief is so overwhelming that the person feels helpless, like they're being pulled underwater.

Until we become like the little girl in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, none of us are likely to turn as blue as a blueberry. This metaphor means someone is sad.

Our emotions can't take a ride on a rollercoaster. This metaphor simply means the person's going through a lot of different moods.