Synonyms for

Analogy

Verb / ʌˈnælʌdʒi: / Another word for analogy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A comparison between two things that are similar in some way, often used to explain something or make it easier to understand.

Synonyms & similar words

doctrineofanalogy apophatism comparison similarity likeness correspondence resemblance parallel equivalence metaphor allegory simile affinity relation connection association link tie bond interrelationship analects parable

Synonyms by register

Formal

comparison parallel likeness resemblance

Informal

comparison likeness parallel

Literary

similitude likening

Antonyms

difference dissimilarity contrast discrepancy unlikeness imparity

Common collocations

  • draw an analogy
  • make an analogy
  • clear analogy
  • apt analogy
  • false analogy
  • historical analogy
  • mathematical analogy

Word family

noun analogy
verb analogize
adjective analogous
adverb analogously

Usage note

An analogy is a comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification. Be careful not to confuse analogy with 'analysis', which means a detailed examination of something.

Example sentences

  1. The analogy between a car and the human body helped me understand how the body works.
  2. She used an analogy to explain how a seed grows into a plant.
  3. The teacher used an analogy to help the students understand the concept.
  4. The analogy he used to describe the economy was very helpful.
  5. The analogy he made was very creative.

Quotes

  • An analogy is like a thought with another thought's hat on. - Sylvia Plath
  • An analogy is a sort of equation, a mathematical insight into the similarities between two things. - John Banville
  • An analogy is a comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification. - Oxford Dictionary

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