What’s the difference?

Both similes and metaphors are used to make writing more interesting by using striking comparisons. The difference between them comes down to two words. Similes use the words like or as to compare things:

The thunder sounded like several fireworks going off at once.

In contrast, metaphors directly state a comparison, as in Katy Perry’s song:

Baby, you’re a firework!

Here are some other examples of similes and metaphors:

• Life is like a box of chocolates. (Simile)
• My life is an open book. (Metaphor)
• The dancer’s hands fluttered like hummingbird wings. (Simile)
• You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog. (Metaphor)
• Her hair was as soft as spun gold. (Simile)
• She went to the party but soon felt lost in a sea of nameless face. (Metaphor)