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Metaphoric: meaning, definitions and examples

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metaphoric

 

[ məˈtæfərɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

figurative language

Metaphoric refers to the use of metaphors, which are figures of speech that describe something by asserting that it is something else, often to suggest a similarity or to convey deeper meanings. This term can apply to language that is not to be taken literally, instead providing insight into an idea or concept through imaginative comparison.

Synonyms

figurative, representational, symbolic, tropological

Examples of usage

  • Her words were metaphoric expressions of love.
  • The painting's metaphoric imagery conveyed a sense of loss.
  • He explained the situation using a metaphoric analogy.
  • The poet's metaphoric language painted vivid pictures.

Translations

Translations of the word "metaphoric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 metafórico

🇮🇳 उपमा संबंधी

🇩🇪 metaphorisch

🇮🇩 metaforis

🇺🇦 метафоричний

🇵🇱 metaforyczny

🇯🇵 比喩的な

🇫🇷 métaphorique

🇪🇸 metafórico

🇹🇷 metaforik

🇰🇷 은유적인

🇸🇦 استعارية

🇨🇿 metaforický

🇸🇰 metaforický

🇨🇳 隐喻的

🇸🇮 metaforičen

🇮🇸 myndlíkur

🇰🇿 метафоралық

🇬🇪 მეტაფორული

🇦🇿 metaforik

🇲🇽 metafórico

Etymology

The word 'metaphoric' originates from the Greek term 'metaphora', which means 'to transfer' or 'to carry over'. It stems from the verb 'metapherein', comprised of 'meta-' meaning 'beyond' and 'phorein' meaning 'to carry'. This concept has evolved through centuries of linguistic development, reflecting the rich history of metaphor's role in literature, art, and everyday communication. Metaphors have been a key aspect of human expression, allowing individuals to convey complex ideas and emotions through vivid and relatable imagery. The use of metaphorical language is prevalent in many cultures, making 'metaphoric' a foundational term in understanding literary and rhetorical strategies throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,350, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.