similes and metaphors are both considered types of

Similes and metaphors are both considered types of figurative language. They are literary devices that allow writers and speakers to create vivid imagery and express abstract ideas in relatable terms.

1. Simile: A simile compares two different things using the words "like" or "as." For example, "Her smile is like sunshine" suggests that the smile brings warmth and brightness, akin to the sun.

2. Metaphor: A metaphor directly states that one thing is another, highlighting similarities without using "like" or "as." For example, "Time is a thief" implies that time can stealthily take away moments of life, similar to how a thief takes possessions.

Both devices enhance writing by allowing for deeper meaning and emotional connections, making them essential tools in poetry, prose, and everyday language.