metaphorically

Thân thiện

She spoke metaphorically about her heart being a locked garden.

Definition

Adverb 1. In a metaphorical manner; using or characterized by metaphor. - Describes the use of language that signifies something by comparing it to something else, suggesting a likeness or analogy rather than stating a literal fact.

Usage

The adverb "metaphorically" modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to indicate that the associated action or description is not literal but is expressed through a metaphor.

Examples

• He said his heart was broken, but he was speaking metaphorically.
• She described the company's growth metaphorically as a "rocket ship."
• To say a person has a "heart of stone" is to speak metaphorically about their lack of compassion.
• The old tree, metaphorically, stood as a guardian of the village's history.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphorically speaking: This is a common introductory phrase used to signal that what follows is a metaphor.
  • Metaphorically speaking, we are all ships sailing on the sea of life.
• It can be used to clarify a statement that might otherwise be misinterpreted as literal.
  • I'm drowning in work. Metaphorically, of course.

Variants and Related Words

• Metaphor (noun): A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.
  • "The curtain of night" is a common metaphor.
• Metaphorical (adjective): Pertaining to or characterized by metaphor.
  • His metaphorical language made the poem powerful.
• Literal (adjective, antonym): Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory.
  • Please give me the literal meaning of the word.

Synonyms

• Figuratively
• Symbolically
• Non-literally

Antonyms

• Literally

Học thuật

Adverb

1. in a metaphorical manner
   • she expressed herself metaphorically