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Likening: meaning, definitions and examples

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likening

 

[ ˈlaɪ.kə.nɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

comparison context

Likening refers to the act of comparing one thing to another, often to highlight similarities or attributes. It is commonly used in literary and rhetorical contexts to enhance understanding or convey meaning.

Synonyms

analogy, comparison, metaphor, simile.

Examples of usage

  • The poet used likening to compare love to a rose.
  • In her speech, she employed likening to illustrate the struggles of the community.
  • The likening of the two leaders showcased their shared visions.
  • The teacher encouraged students to use likening in their essays for greater impact.

Translations

Translations of the word "likening" in other languages:

🇵🇹 comparação

🇮🇳 समानता

🇩🇪 Vergleich

🇮🇩 perbandingan

🇺🇦 порівняння

🇵🇱 porównanie

🇯🇵 比較

🇫🇷 comparaison

🇪🇸 comparación

🇹🇷 karşılaştırma

🇰🇷 비교

🇸🇦 مقارنة

🇨🇿 srovnání

🇸🇰 porovnanie

🇨🇳 比较

🇸🇮 primerjava

🇮🇸 samanburður

🇰🇿 салыстыру

🇬🇪 შედარება

🇦🇿 müqayisə

🇲🇽 comparación

Etymology

The term 'likening' derives from the Old English word 'lician,' which means to please or be similar. Over time, it evolved into a more generalized term indicating comparison. The suffix '-ing' conveys the act or process of comparing. In the context of literature and rhetoric, likening has been widely employed since early English literature to draw parallels between different concepts, enhancing the reader's understanding and emotional response. Throughout history, likening has played a crucial role in teaching, writing, and public speaking, allowing speakers and writers to create vivid imagery and connect with their audiences.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,528 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.