In a metaphor, what is the image to which a subject is being compared called?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $25.99Unlock all

Study for the Modern American Literature and Poetry Test. Explore diverse themes and answer multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Enhance your comprehension and prepare for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In a metaphor, what is the image to which a subject is being compared called?

Explanation:
The image used to describe a subject in a metaphor is called the vehicle. The thing being described is the tenor, and the vehicle provides the concrete image that carries the meaning of the comparison. The ground is the shared basis or attribute that links tenor and vehicle, helping explain why the comparison makes sense, while the term symbol refers to a broader idea and isn’t the specific label for the image in the metaphor. For example, in “Time is a thief,” time is the tenor and thief is the vehicle; the ground might be the notion of something precious being taken away secretly.

The image used to describe a subject in a metaphor is called the vehicle. The thing being described is the tenor, and the vehicle provides the concrete image that carries the meaning of the comparison. The ground is the shared basis or attribute that links tenor and vehicle, helping explain why the comparison makes sense, while the term symbol refers to a broader idea and isn’t the specific label for the image in the metaphor. For example, in “Time is a thief,” time is the tenor and thief is the vehicle; the ground might be the notion of something precious being taken away secretly.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy