Definition

Adjective: 1. Relating to or based on analogy: Expressing, composed of, or derived from a comparison between two things that are similar in some way, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification. 2. Characterized by or involving analogy: Using or following the method of reasoning by analogy.

Usage and Examples

• General Use: Describes a statement, argument, or relationship that uses analogy.
  • The professor's explanation was analogical, comparing the structure of an atom to a miniature solar system.
  • She made an analogical argument, suggesting that just as a seed needs water to grow, a mind needs knowledge to develop.
• Linguistic Use: Describes the use of a word or phrase in a way that draws a comparison.
  • The poet's analogical use of "a stormy sea" to describe emotional turmoil was very effective.

Advanced Usage

• Analogical Reasoning: A cognitive process of transferring information or meaning from a particular subject (the analogue or source) to another particular subject (the target).
  • Children often use analogical reasoning to solve new problems by relating them to familiar situations.
• Analogical Modeling: A theoretical framework in linguistics and cognitive science that predicts outcomes based on the analogy to similar, known instances.

Variants and Related Words

• Analogically (adverb): In an analogical manner; by way of analogy.
  • He argued analogically, drawing parallels between historical and current events.
• Analogy (noun): A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.
  • The analogy between the heart and a pump is common in biology textbooks.
• Analogous (adjective): Comparable in certain respects, typically in a way that makes clearer the nature of the things compared.
  • The wings of a bird and the wings of an airplane are analogous structures.

Synonyms

• Comparative: Pertaining to or based on comparison.
• Metaphorical: Characteristic of or relating to metaphor; figurative. (Note: While all metaphors are analogical, not all analogies are metaphors.)
• Figurative: Departing from a literal use of words; metaphorical.

Antonyms

• Literal: Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory.
• Nonfigurative: Not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Argument from analogy: A logical argument that relies on the principle that if two things are similar in some known respects, they are likely similar in other, unknown respects.
  • His prediction was based on a weak argument from analogy.
• Analogical transfer: The application of a solution or strategy from a known problem to a new, similar problem.

Adjective

1. expressing, composed of, or based on an analogy
   • the analogical use of a metaphor