Tropes & Figures
Simile
A simile is a trope that figuratively juxtaposes two objects or phenomena by a common feature, using the conjunctions "like," "as," "as if," "as though," or the instrumental case or words such as "similar," "resembling." Unlike metaphor, where the transfer of meaning is hidden, in a simile both members of the juxtaposition are named openly. A simile specifies and visualises the image, making the unknown comprehensible through the known and the abstract through the concrete. Simple similes are distinguished from extended (Homeric) ones, which grow into an independent picture. The simile is one of the most ancient and natural means of imagery, widely represented in the folklore, poetry and literary prose of all peoples.
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Compare “Simile” with another term
Meaning, origins and distinction — side by side.
Distinction
Both juxtapose objects by similarity, but frame it differently. A simile names BOTH members OPENLY and links them with "like," "as" ("strong as a lion"). A metaphor is a hidden, condensed comparison WITHOUT the conjunction, where the transfer of meaning is concealed and the image is presented as identity ("a lion" for a person). Metaphor is more compact and bold; simile, more graphic and transparent.
