5.1 Metaphor, Simile & Personification

Comparisons

A simile compares using 'like' or 'as' ('brave as a lion'); a metaphor states one thing is another ('the world's a stage'). Both illuminate a subject by mapping qualities from something else onto it.

Personification

Personification gives human qualities to nonhuman things ('the wind whispered'). It animates the world and can carry emotion or theme, making abstract or natural forces feel intentional.

Tenor and vehicle

In a metaphor, the tenor is the actual subject and the vehicle is the image used to describe it. In 'life is a journey,' life is the tenor and journey the vehicle; meaning arises from what they share.

Key terms

Simile

A comparison using 'like' or 'as.'

Metaphor

A comparison stating one thing is another.

Personification

Giving human qualities to nonhuman things.

Tenor

The actual subject of a metaphor.

Vehicle

The image used to describe the tenor.

Try an AP-style question

What device is this?

1. Onomatopoeia
2. Metaphor
3. Simile
4. Hyperbole