Analogy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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analogy
[ษหnalษdสi ]
Definition
logical comparison
An analogy is a comparison between one thing and another, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification. Analogies are often used to make complex ideas more easily understood.
Synonyms
comparison, likeness, similarity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| analogy |
Use this word when drawing a parallel to explain something complex by comparing it to something simpler and more familiar.
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| comparison |
This term is appropriate when directly juxtaposing two or more things to highlight their similarities and differences.
|
| similarity |
This word is best used when discussing characteristics or features that are alike between two or more things without necessarily implying a comparison.
|
| likeness |
Use this word to describe a resemblance or similarity between two things, often in physical appearance or characteristics.
|
Examples of usage
- Drawing an analogy between the human brain and a computer can help illustrate how memory works.
- The teacher used an analogy of a sports team to explain the concept of teamwork to the students.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Authors often use analogies to make complex ideas more relatable, like comparing a journey to lifeโs challenges.
- Classic works like 'Animal Farm' use allegorical analogies to convey deeper social and political messages.
- Notable figures such as Aristotle and Plato employed analogies in their writings to clarify their philosophical arguments.
Cognitive Psychology
- Studies have shown that using analogies can enhance problem-solving skills by allowing people to transfer knowledge from one context to another.
- Analogical thinking engages different parts of the brain, facilitating creativity and innovative ideas.
- Research indicates that people often rely on analogies to make sense of new experiences by relating them to familiar concepts.
Education
- Teachers frequently use analogies in the classroom, helping students grasp difficult subjects by linking them to everyday experiences.
- Explaining scientific concepts through analogies can improve understanding; for example, comparing electrical flow to water flow.
- Using familiar analogies can make learning more engaging, as they create relatable connections for students.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often use analogies during conversations, which can highlight parallels between their lives and broader themes.
- Popular songs may include analogies; for instance, using a flower to represent love's fragileness.
- Social media thrives on analogies in memes, making complex societal issues more digestible and relatable.
Origin of 'analogy'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'analogy' comes from the Greek word 'analogia', meaning 'proportion' or 'similarity'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally used in philosophical texts.
- The prefix 'ana-' means 'up' or 'back', while 'logos' means 'reason' or 'word', together emphasizing reasoning by comparison.
The word 'analogy' comes from the Greek word 'analogia', which means 'proportion' or 'analogy'. The use of analogies in reasoning and communication dates back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Plato and Aristotle used them to explain complex concepts. Analogies continue to be a powerful tool in education and problem-solving, helping to bridge the gap between the known and the unknown.