What is the difference between a simile and a metaphor?

Answer 1

They are both types of comparisons, but similes use the words "like" or "as" to make the comparison whereas metaphors do not.

Answer 2

A simile uses 'like' and 'as', for example, She swims like a fish. She is as quiet as a mouse.

A metaphor: She has a heart of gold. He is the apple of my eye. A metaphor describes an object or an action that is untrue but has a special meaning.

Meaning of, 'She has a heart of gold.' She is very kind.

Meaning of, 'He is the apple of my eye.' I am very fond of him. (A favorite child)

Answer 3

A simile is a comparison using "like" or "as," while a metaphor is a direct comparison between two unlike things.