Translation 4

Metaphors
Metaphors link two unrelated things that are not normally linked. This linking does not create an open, or simple, comparison. Instead, it creates a hidden one where you are saying something is equal to something else, even though the two are clearly not the same thing. Consider the following example:

Example:

1. Max is a pig when he eats.
2. You are my sunshine.
3. It’s raining cats and dogs.
4. Even a child could carry my dog around for hours. He is a feather.
5. He is the Tiger Woods of his golf team.

Similes
Like metaphors, similes connect two unrelated things. Unlike metaphors, a simile connection is not the equivalent of an equal sign. Instead, it is meant to highlight a similarity and suggest that one thing is like another. This connect is an open, simple one. Similes are normally identified by the word “like” or “as.” See the below examples:

Example:

1. During the awful, horrifying accident, he remained as cool as a cucumber. (as cool as a cucumber to be calm and relaxed, especially in a difficult situation.)
2. As he never ate much, his arms were as thin as a rake. (as thin as a rake very thin)
3. That devilish monkey which stole my banana was as bold as brass! (as bold as brass very brave and confident; not afraid to say what you feel or take risks.)
4. The old man's beard is as thorny as a rose bush; I won't touch it! (as thorny as a rose bush very thorny.)
5. He washed his face until it was as smooth as glass. (as smooth as glass very smooth)
6. After finding a bag full of jewels, the young man's eyes looked as bright as the moon. (as bright as the moon very bright.)

Idioms
Idioms have no defining rules. They are, however, phrases that mean something other than the words that create them. Phrases that are common in everyday language and have figurative meanings that are widely understood are idioms. The literal meanings make no sense. Many idioms are also considered cliches because they are used so frequently. If you are using idioms in a written piece, try to avoid those that are overused unless you feel one is absolutely necessary to the purpose of your words. Consider the following example:

Example:

1. She wants to play it by ear. (The idiom is “play it by ear,” and the figurative meaning is to improvise instead of making set plans.)
2. He's been chasing his tail all week collecting data but the report is still not ready. (Spending a lot of time and energy doing a lot of things but actually achieving too little.)
3. The boss examined my report with a fine tooth comb before submitting it to the senior management. (Examining something carefully to not miss out any details.)
4. To ensure a successful product launch, we must get our ducks in a row. (Getting your things well organized.)
5. Now that we have compeleted all the legal formalities, let's get the show on the road. (Putting up a plan or idea into action.)
6. Audition test was conducted by the director to separate sheep from goats. (Examining a group of people and deciding their suitability.)