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Likening Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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likening

[ˈlaɪ.kə.nɪŋ ]

Definition

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Language Use

  • Likening is often used in poetry to create vivid images by comparing one thing to another.
  • In everyday conversations, people may use likening to clarify ideas by connecting new concepts to familiar ones.
  • Common phrases like 'as brave as a lion' are examples of likening, enhancing understanding through relatable comparisons.

Psychology

  • Humans naturally tend to use comparisons to make sense of new information, because it relates to prior knowledge.
  • Cognitive psychologists suggest that likening helps in memory retention by creating associations between concepts.
  • Understanding through analogy, which involves likening, is recognized as a powerful learning tool in educational settings.

Literature

  • Famous authors, like Shakespeare, frequently used likening in their works to enhance imagery and convey deeper meanings.
  • Children's literature often employs likening to engage young readers, making complex emotions easier to grasp.
  • Metaphors and similes, forms of likening, are crucial devices in storytelling, driving emotional connections.

Cultural Implications

  • Different cultures utilize unique likening forms in their storytelling, enriching their folklore.
  • Comparative phrases can reflect cultural values, such as likening a person to a wise owl in Western cultures.
  • In interpersonal communications, likening can bridge cultural gaps by highlighting shared human experiences.

Origin of 'likening'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'likening' comes from the Old English 'lician' which means 'to please' or 'to resemble'.
  • It evolved in Middle English to refer more specifically to the act of comparison or similarity.
  • Linked to the word 'like', which indicates resemblance or similarity.

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.