Spell Bee Word: metaphors

Basic Details

Word: Metaphor

Part of Speech: Noun

Meaning: A way of describing something by saying it is something else, to show similarities or create a vivid image.

Synonyms: Comparison, figure of speech, allegory

Antonyms: Literal, straightforward

Idioms and Phrases

1. Metaphorically speaking: Used when you want to clarify that you are using a metaphor rather than speaking literally. Example: "Metaphorically speaking, he was a lion in that debate—fierce and unstoppable."
2. In a metaphorical sense: Refers to understanding something in a symbolic way. Example: "In a metaphorical sense, life is a journey filled with ups and downs."

Usage Examples

Example 1: In the poem, the author uses the metaphor of a "sea of troubles" to describe overwhelming problems.

Example 2: When she called the classroom a "zoo", she was using a metaphor to indicate that it was loud and chaotic.

Example 3: His heart was a stone, a metaphor that showed how emotionally closed off he had become.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the word "metaphor" comes from the Greek word "metaphora," which means "to transfer"? This reflects how a metaphor transfers meaning from one thing to another, helping us understand ideas better.

Famous Quote

"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." - William Shakespeare

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What does "metaphor" mean?

a) A literal truth
b) A description by saying something is something else
c) A type of instrument
d) A story

Answer: b) A description by saying something is something else

2. Which of these is a synonym of "metaphor"?

a) Literal
b) Comparison
c) Analogy
d) Both b and c

Answer: d) Both b and c

3. Which of these is an antonym of "metaphor"?

a) Allegory
b) Literal
c) Interpretation
d) Imagination

Answer: b) Literal

4. Which sentence uses "metaphor" correctly?

a) The metaphor in the poem was very boring.
b) She metaphor a beautiful picture of the sunset.
c) He uses a metaphor to explain how she felt.
d) They metaphorically made a cake for their friend.

Answer: c) He uses a metaphor to explain how she felt.

5. Which idiom means to use language symbolically?

a) In a metaphorical sense
b) Face the music
c) Up in the air
d) A penny for your thoughts

Answer: a) In a metaphorical sense