Metaphor
A metaphor asserts that one thing is something that it literally is not. For example: * This bedroom is a prison. * He's a real gannet. * He listened with a stone face. * We don't need dinosaurs in this company.
Simile
A simile likens one thing to another (usually achieved by the use of the wordlike or as). For example: * He eats like a gannet. * This sandwich tastes like sawdust between two doormats. * She sings like an angel. * It's like water off a duck's back.
Personification
Personification is when non-human objects are given human traits. For example: * The tide waits for no man. * My car tends to give up on long hills. * Summer's healing rays
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is an exaggeration or extravagant statement used for effect. For example: * I have a million problems. * We won a tonne of cash. * I'll die if I don't finish this crossword.
Idiom
An idiom is commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. For example: * Be careful not to miss the boat. * This is the last straw. * You can't pull the wool over my eyes. * Don't sit on the fence. Say what you mean.
Euphemism
A euphemism is the use of agreeable or inoffensive words to replace rude or offensive ones. For example: * kicked the bucket = has died * knocked up = is pregnant * letting you go = you're fired * lost his marbles = is mad

Famous Metaphors (Examples)
Here are some metaphors by famous people: * Conscience is a man’s compass.
(Dutch post-Impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh, 1853-1890) * All religions, arts, and sciences are branches of the same tree.
(Theoretical physicist Albert Einstein, 1879-1955) * All at once he was alone in this noisy hive with no place to roost.
(Tom Wolfe)
Funny Metaphors (Examples)
Here are some funny