Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Using or containing a metaphor: Describes language that uses a word or phrase to represent something else, suggesting a comparison without using "like" or "as."
   • Not literal; figurative: Indicates that the meaning of a word or phrase is symbolic and not its basic, concrete meaning.

Usage

• The adjective metaphorical is used to describe words, expressions, language, or meaning.
• It is often used to clarify that a statement is not to be taken literally.
• It can be used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb).
• The shorter form metaphoric is also correct and has the same meaning.

Examples

• Attributive use (before a noun):
  • The author's metaphorical description of time as a river is beautiful.
  • She used a metaphorical expression to explain the complex concept.
• Predicative use (after a verb):
  • His language was highly metaphorical.
  • When I say "the heart of the matter," I'm being metaphorical.

Advanced Usage

• Extended Metaphor: A metaphor that is developed over several lines or throughout an entire work.
  • The poem's metaphorical comparison of life to a journey unfolds in every stanza.
• Metaphorical Extension: The process by which a word acquires new, figurative meanings.
  • The metaphorical extension of "mouse" to mean a computer device is now standard.

Variants and Related Words

• Metaphor (n): The figure of speech itself.
  • "All the world's a stage" is a famous metaphor.
• Metaphorically (adv): In a metaphorical way.
  • He spoke metaphorically about "climbing the ladder of success."
• Metaphoric (adj): A variant form of .
  • The metaphoric language enriched the narrative.

Synonyms

• Figurative: Involving a meaning that is not literal.
• Symbolic: Serving as a symbol of something else.
• Allegorical: Involving a story or image that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning.

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 Idioms

• A metaphorical sense: Used to indicate a non-literal interpretation.
  • He is, in a metaphorical sense, the father of the movement.
• Metaphorically speaking: A phrase used to signal that what follows is not literal.
  • Metaphorically speaking, we are all ships sailing on the sea of life.

Adjective

1. expressing one thing in terms normally denoting another
   • a metaphorical expression
   • metaphoric language