What is the main difference between a simile and a metaphor?

A simile uses 'like' or 'as' to compare two things, while a metaphor directly states that one thing is another.

Which of the following sentences is an example of a simile?

The snow was as white as a polar bear.

To create a vivid picture in the reader's mind and make their writing more interesting.

The internet is an information superhighway.

Grade 4th Grade · ELA · 60 min

I can identify examples of similes, metaphors, and personification in folklore.

GrammarSongs by Melissa · 6:53

Similes and Metaphors | Award Winning Similes and Metaphors Teaching Video | New!

3 key concepts

1
Similes and metaphors are types of figurative language that compare two things by highlighting shared qualities.
2
Similes use the words like or as to make a comparison, while metaphors state that one thing is another.
3
Authors use similes and metaphors to encourage the reader to use their imagination and paint a more vivid picture.

12 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Quick comprehension check

“Is the following sentence a simile or a metaphor? Explain your answer. "The dancer was a graceful swan on the stage."”

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