Metaphorically: meaning, definitions and examples

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metaphorically

 

[ mɛtəˈfɔrɪkli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

figurative language

Metaphorically refers to the use of a metaphor, indicating that something is being described in terms of another, often unrelated, thing to convey a meaning or idea. It adds a deeper layer of meaning beyond the literal interpretation.

Synonyms

figuratively, representatively, symbolically.

Examples of usage

  • She was metaphorically climbing the corporate ladder.
  • Metaphorically speaking, life is a journey.
  • He was metaphorically a lion in the face of adversity.
  • To put it metaphorically, it's raining cats and dogs.

Translations

Translations of the word "metaphorically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 metaforicamente

🇮🇳 उपमा के रूप में

🇩🇪 metaphorisch

🇮🇩 secara metaforis

🇺🇦 метафорично

🇵🇱 metaforycznie

🇯🇵 比喩的に

🇫🇷 métaphoriquement

🇪🇸 metafóricamente

🇹🇷 mecazi olarak

🇰🇷 은유적으로

🇸🇦 استعارةً

🇨🇿 metaforicky

🇸🇰 metaforicky

🇨🇳 隐喻地

🇸🇮 metaforično

🇮🇸 myndrænt

🇰🇿 метафоралық түрде

🇬🇪 მეტაფორულად

🇦🇿 metaforik olaraq

🇲🇽 metafóricamente

Etymology

The term 'metaphorically' stems from the word 'metaphor', which originates from the Greek word 'metaphora', meaning 'transfer' or 'to transfer'. This Greek term is a combination of 'meta', which means 'beyond' or 'over', and 'pherein', which means 'to carry' or 'to bear'. The use of 'metaphorically' in the English language highlights an essential figurative practice that has been utilized in literature and speech since the Middle Ages. The evolution of the term reflects the human penchant for drawing comparisons and creating vivid images through language. The adverb form suggests the act of speaking or expressing ideas not in their literal sense but rather in a symbolic or representative way, showcasing the richness of language and its flexibility in conveying complex thoughts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,926, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.