Word
metaphorically
Phoneticsmetaphor·i·cal·ly
US/ˌmɛtəˈfɔɹɪkɫi/
UK/mˌɛtəfˈɒɹɪkli/
Definition
adv. in a way that uses a comparison to describe something. You use this when you are not speaking literally but want to explain an idea using a different image.
adv. in a manner involving a metaphor; figuratively. Often used to describe speech or writing that uses symbolic language to represent abstract concepts.
Examples
“He spoke metaphorically about the challenges of the new project.”
“The poet used the rising sun as a metaphorically representation of hope for the future.”
“While the legal team debated the technicalities of the contract, the CEO spoke metaphorically about the company's journey through the storm of economic uncertainty.”
Examples
simple
“He spoke metaphorically about the challenges of the new project.”
contextual
“The poet used the rising sun as a metaphorically representation of hope for the future.”
complex
“While the legal team debated the technicalities of the contract, the CEO spoke metaphorically about the company's journey through the storm of economic uncertainty.”
Real-World Examples
“What's the difference between 'valuable' when used literally and metaphorically?” “When most Australians say 'spring is in the air,' they're speaking metaphorically, as the days become longer and warmer.” “But also metaphorically: To “touch grass” is to disconnect from the virtual world and reconnect with the physical one.” “So, maybe a human-like machine will be used in such a situation.”
That’s a long way to go, both literally and metaphorically considering today’s Archax can’t really do much of anything useful.” Etymology
From metaphorical + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/metaphorically