Liken to

usgb
verb

To compare someone or something to another, seeing them as similar in some way.

He likened his need for his phone to a smoker's need for cigarettes.
Visual representation of "liken to" - To compare someone or something to another, seeing them as similar in some way.

Often appears as...

  • liken someone to
  • liken something to
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "liken to"
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Visual Similarity

Use 'liken to' when highlighting visual or conceptual similarities between different things.

Illustration for Visual Similarity
She likened the clouds to fluffy cotton balls.
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Exaggeration Caution

'Liken to' sometimes exaggerates similarities for dramatic effect or humor.

Illustration for Exaggeration Caution
He likened his tiny apartment to a spacious palace.
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Unexpected Comparisons

The phrase can be used to draw novel or surprising comparisons that aren't immediately obvious.

Illustration for Unexpected Comparisons
The poet likened the sound of rain to a symphony.
Visual representation of the word "Liken to"

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