Which statement distinguishes a simile from a metaphor?

Which statement distinguishes a simile from a metaphor?

• A. A simile uses like or as to compare; a metaphor asserts a direct equivalence without like or as.
• B. A simile states a direct equivalence; a metaphor uses like or as.
• C. A simile compares two things while a metaphor states they are identical.
• D. A simile uses literal language; a metaphor uses symbolic language.

Answer: (A)

Similes express a likeness by using like or as to compare two things, signaling that they are similar without saying they are the same. Metaphors skip those cue words and make an assertion that one thing is the other, creating a direct equivalence. That contrast is exactly what the statement highlights: like or as shows a comparison, while removing those words and claiming direct identity shows a metaphor. For example, “Her laughter was like bells” is a simile, whereas “Her laughter was bells” is a metaphor.

Similes express a likeness by using like or as to compare two things, signaling that they are similar without saying they are the same. Metaphors skip those cue words and make an assertion that one thing is the other, creating a direct equivalence. That contrast is exactly what the statement highlights: like or as shows a comparison, while removing those words and claiming direct identity shows a metaphor. For example, “Her laughter was like bells” is a simile, whereas “Her laughter was bells” is a metaphor.