Analogy

Definitions

1. A relationship of resemblance or equivalence between two situations, people, or objects, especially when used as a basis for explanation or extrapolation.
   countable, uncountable
2. The proportion or the equality of ratios.
   countable, uncountable
3. The correspondence of a word or phrase with the genius of a language, as learned from the manner in which its words and phrases are ordinarily formed; similarity of derivative or inflectional processes.
   countable, uncountable

Equivalents

Examples

“Yet the systole and diastole of the heart are not without their analogy in the ebb and flow⟳ of love⟳.”

“Is there any analogy, in certain constitutions, between keeping an umbrella up, and keeping the spirits up?”

“The old analogy likening the human mind⟳ to an imperfect mirror, which modifies the images it reflects, occurred more than once to Odo.”

“Perhaps the easiest way to think⟳ of it is in terms of a simple analogy: hardware is to software as a television set⟳ is to the shows that appear⟳ on it.”

“A kid living on the street is a bit like⟳ — and please⟳ pardon the analogy here — a weed.”

CEFR level