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Metaphors and similes are types of figurative language that make writing more vivid. A metaphor says one thing is another; a simile compares using like or as.
A metaphor says one thing is another to make a point.
| Metaphor | What it means |
|---|---|
| Time is a thief. | Time seems to steal our moments away quickly. |
| The classroom was a zoo. | The classroom was noisy and out of control. |
| Her voice is music to my ears. | Her voice is very pleasant to hear. |
| He has a heart of gold. | He is very kind and generous. |
| The world is a stage. | Life is like a play, and people act out roles. |
| Ideas are wings. | Ideas can lift you up and carry you far. |
| The snow is a white blanket. | The snow covers the ground smoothly like a blanket. |
| My memory is a little foggy. | I can't remember things clearly. |
| She is a night owl. | She likes to stay up late at night. |
| The stars are diamonds. | The stars sparkle brightly like diamonds. |
| His words were a rollercoaster. | His words caused sudden ups and downs of emotion. |
| The test was a breeze. | The test was very easy. |
A simile compares two things using like or as.
| Simile | What it means |
|---|---|
| As busy as a bee | Very busy and hardworking. |
| As brave as a lion | Very brave and courageous. |
| As light as a feather | Extremely light in weight. |
| As cold as ice | Very cold (or very unfriendly). |
| As quiet as a mouse | Making almost no sound. |
| As sweet as honey | Very sweet or very kind. |
| As tall as a giraffe | Very tall. |
| As slow as a snail | Moving very slowly. |
| Sleeps like a log | Sleeps very deeply. |
| Fits like a glove | Fits perfectly. |
| Runs like the wind | Runs very fast. |
| Shines like a star | Stands out brightly. |
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This free printable metaphors and similes reference gives clear examples of each, with plain meanings, so students can tell the two apart and use them in their own writing. Figurative language is a core skill in grades 3–8 reading and writing, and this sheet is perfect for classrooms, homeschool, and test review. Print it and try writing a few of your own.
A simile compares two things using “like” or “as” (“as brave as a lion”). A metaphor says one thing is another without “like” or “as” (“he has a heart of gold”).
Yes — print and share it as often as you like for home or classroom use.
It's most useful for grades 3–8, when students learn to identify and use figurative language, but younger and older students can use it too.