Metaphoric for Dummies

Metaphoric is a word that can be a little tricky to understand at first, but I'm here to help make it clear for you! When something is described as metaphoric, it means that it is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable. In simpler terms, it's when we use a word or phrase to describe something in a way that may not be exactly true, but helps us understand it better. For example, if I say "His heart is as cold as ice," I'm not saying his heart is literally made of ice, but I'm using that image to help you understand just how cold and unfeeling he seems.

Another way to think about it is like using a comparison to explain something. Have you ever heard the saying "like a wolf in sheep's clothing"? This is a metaphoric phrase - it's not saying there's actually a wolf wearing sheep's clothes, but it's using that image to describe someone who looks harmless but is actually dangerous.

So when you hear the word "metaphoric," I want you to think of it as a way of using expressive language to paint a picture in someone's mind, even if it's not literally true. It's like using a magnifying glass to zoom in on the meaning of something and make it more vivid and understandable. It's kind of like when you use your favorite color to make a drawing more interesting and lively - the color isn't literally there, but it adds depth and meaning to the picture. That's what a metaphoric expression does to language - it adds depth and meaning to what we're saying.