A metaphor directly compares two unlike things. An idiom phrases or expressions that have a figurative meaning different from the literal meaning of the individual words. A hyperbole is a statement that represents something as better or worse than it really is.
For Example: Metaphor: you are a diamond
Idiom: You’re a diamond in the rough.
Hyperbole: You’re worth more than a thousand diamonds.
These literary devices used in literature and other literary works, Generally for childrens it is difficult to understand these literary devices. I hope that understanding these differences and similarities can help you strengthen your use of literary devices.
What Is A Metaphor?
A metaphor is the figure of speech that has directly compared two unlike things.
For Example:
“Love is a Battlefield by Pat Benatar”
Love is a battlefield.
This metaphor compares love to a battlefield, suggesting the challenges and conflicts one may face in relationships.
What Is An idiom?
These are expressions that have a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. Idioms are culturally specific and often don’t make sense if you interpret them literally.
For Example: A Common English idiom I use is : Idiom: “Piece of cake.” – This idiom means something is very easy to do or accomplish, just like eating a slice of cake.
What is hyperbole?
This is an exaggeration or overstatement used for attention or effect. It’s not meant to be taken literally. Hyperboles often exaggerate to create a dramatic or funny effect.
For Example: “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.” – This hyperbolic statement exaggerates hunger to emphasize its intensity, suggesting the person is extremely famished.
What are the differences between metaphor vs idiom vs hyperbole?
Here are 4 differences:
| Metaphor | Idiom | Hyperbole |
| Used to create imagination. | Used to convey a specific meaning. | Used to create dramatic effect. |
| Direct comparison | fixed expression | Exaggerated statement or claim |
| The literal meaning of the words is different from the implied meaning. | The meaning cannot be inferred from the individual words. | The literal meaning is exaggerated. |
| Type of Figurative language | Type of Figurative language | Type of Figurative language |
What are the easy examples of metaphor vs idiom vs hyperbole for kids?
The easy examples of metaphor, idiom and hyperbole for children is:
Metaphor: “He’s a shining star.” – This metaphor compares someone to a star, suggesting they stand out and excel in something.
Idiom: “Break the ice.” – This idiom means to start a conversation in a social situation to make people feel more comfortable.
Hyperbole: “I’m so hungry I could eat a horse.” – This hyperbole exaggerates hunger to emphasize how hungry someone feels.
What are metaphor vs idiom vs hyperbole examples in literature?
Metaphor, idiom and hyperbole is very commonly use in literature:
Metaphor: In Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” Mark Antony says, “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.” Here, Antony isn’t literally asking for people’s ears but using a metaphor to request their attention and support.
Idiom: In “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, Atticus Finch advises his children, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” This expression, “climb into his skin,” is an idiom meaning to empathize with someone.
Hyperbole: In “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain, Tom exclaims, “I’ll die before I run from an Injun!” This hyperbolic statement exaggerates Tom’s determination and fearlessness in the face of danger.
What is an Example of an idiom that is also a metaphor?
One example of an idiom that is also a metaphor is “kick the bucket.”
Idiomatically, “kick the bucket” means to die. This phrase is also metaphorical because it compares the act of dying to kicking a bucket, suggesting a sudden and irreversible action.
What are the similarities between metaphor vs idiom vs hyperbole?
Here are 4 Similarities Between Metaphor, Idiom, and Hyperbole:
| Metaphor | Idiom | Hyperbole |
| Figures of Speech | Figures of Speech | Figures of Speech |
| Non-Literal Meaning | Non-Literal Meaning | Non-Literal Meaning |
| Used for Emphasis | Used for Emphasis | Used for Emphasis |
| Found in Everyday Language | Found in Everyday Language | Found in Everyday Language |
Is the apple of my eye a metaphor or idiom?
“The apple of my eye” is both a metaphor and an idiom.
Metaphorically, it compares someone or something cherished or loved to the pupil of the eye, which is a highly valued and protected part of the body.
Idiomatically, it means a person or thing that is valued above all others, often used to express deep affection or appreciation.
Is an idiom the same as a metaphor?
No, both idioms and metaphors are figures of speech, they are not exactly the same.
A metaphor directly compares two unlike things white idiom is expressions that have a figurative meaning different from the literal meaning of the specific words.