Similes, Metaphors and Kennings: What are they, and how do we use them?

All the time in our writing we are trying to spark emotion, paint vivid pictures, and help readers connect with our ideas. Two of the most powerful – and every so simple – tools for doing this are similes and metaphors. While they’re often confused with each other, they each have a distinct role in writing.

What is a Simile?

A simile is a comparison between two different things using the words like or as. It highlights a shared quality to make a description more vivid.

Examples of similes:

• Her smile was as bright as the sun.

• The child ran like the wind.

• His voice cracked like dry wood snapping.

*Lots of similes are cliches and can be found in everyday language! Not too unfamiliar as you may think! Similes, in general, add clarity by directly pointing out similarities, making it easier for readers to visualise or understand something you are trying to describe – especially images that are little more complex.

What is a Metaphor?

A metaphor is a comparison that says one thing is another, even though it’s not literally true. It's a creative lie! Instead of pointing out a similarity, it transforms one thing into another in language.

Examples of metaphors:

• Time is a thief

• Her eyes were oceans of mystery.

• The classroom was a zoo.

  
  

Metaphors are arguably more powerful and immersive than similes. They make writing feel richer, more imaginative, and sometimes more emotional because they blur the line between two ideas.

What Are Kennings?

While similes and metaphors are widely used today, another figurative device worth knowing is the kenning. A kenning is a compound expression—usually made of two words—that describes something in a more imaginative or indirect way. Kennings originated in Old Norse and Old English poetry, but writers still use them today for creative effect.

Examples of kennings include things like "whale road" for the sea, and "book-worm" for someone who is an avid reader.

Kennings make language more poetic, symbolic, and layered. Instead of saying “ocean,” calling it a whale-road evokes imagery of Viking ships and open seas.

How to Use Kennings in Writing

✔ Be creative – Combine nouns in fresh ways (storm-dancer for a ship, ink-speaker for a pen).

✔ Think metaphorically – A kenning is essentially a mini-metaphor disguised as a compound word.

✔ Set the mood – Kennings often feel mythical or epic, perfect for fantasy writing, poetry, or dramatic storytelling.

✔ Keep it clear – Readers should be able to work out the meaning without too much confusion.

Even though kennings are ancient, they remind us how flexible and imaginative language can be. They force us to see familiar things from a fresh perspective, which is exactly what great writing does.

Similes vs. Metaphors

Simile is a comparison using “like” or “as.” (softens the comparison)

Metaphor is a direct equation. (strengthens the comparison)

For example:

Simile = "Life is like a rollercoaster."

Metaphor = "Life is a rollercoaster."

Why Use Them At All?

Similes and Metaphors help readers see, hear, or feel what you’re describing; they connect abstract ideas to familiar experiences. A well-crafted metaphor or simile sticks in the reader’s mind, and they make writing more engaging, poetic, and less literal.

How to Use Similes and Metaphors Properly

✔ Be original – Avoid clichés like “cold as ice” or “busy as a bee.”

✔ Match the tone – A playful simile might not work in a serious essay.

✔ Keep it clear – If the comparison is too obscure, it can confuse rather than clarify.

✔ Don’t overuse them – Sprinkle them naturally; too many can overwhelm your writing.

✔ Enhance meaning – Use them to deepen understanding, not just to sound fancy.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to describe a character, set a mood, or make an abstract idea tangible, the right comparison can breathe life into your words. Your writing will shine brighter when you master these figures of speech.