Understand the Difference Between a Simile and a Metaphor

Use of Language - Metaphors and Similes

There are so many ways we can use language to create amazing images.

Two particular techniques are called metaphors and similes.

Similes are when you liken something to something else using the words 'as' or 'like'. 

For example:

The dying sun cast a yellow glow over the mountain making it look like a pile of gold.

A metaphor still likens something to something else, but instead of using the words 'like' or 'as', it suggests it really is something else.

For example:

The mountains were piles of gold in the glow of the setting sun.

Can you see the difference?

This activity is going to help us to distinguish between the two.

Let's get started.