Similes

What is a simile?

A simile is a fixed informal or colloquial expression which we use to compare two or more things.  We use the words ‘as…as…’ and ‘like…’ when we make comparisons using similes.  Similes are fun and creative – they enhance your English and when used appropriately will raise your English to the next level.  They are also useful to understand, both when listening and reading.

Simile Challenge!

Below are some useful similes.  Can you match the missing word to make the simile?  Do you know what they mean?

similes quiz

The Answers

Here are the answers with some example sentences:

as light as a feather = very light

“The suitcase is as light as a feather.  I can carry it myself.”

drink like a fish = drink a lot of alcohol

“The guest in room 505 drinks like a fish.  He ordered three bottles of champagne last night!”

Sleep like a log = sleep very well

“I slept like a log last night.  It was the best night’s sleep I have had in months!”

as good as gold = behave very well

“The children in the hotel nursery were as good as gold yesterday.  They really enjoyed all the games we played.”

work like a dream = work very well

“The new coffee machine works like a dream.  It made a delicious caffé macchiato in minutes!”

as fresh as a daisy = to feel refreshed and full of energy

“I slept so well last night in my queen bed.  I feel as fresh as a daisy this morning!”

as strong as an ox = very strong

“The new bellboy is as strong as an ox!  I saw him carrying three heavy suitcases up to the seventh floor.”

As clear as mud = very confusing and unclear

“The new contract is as clear as mud!  I don’t understand any of the terms and conditions!”

Finally, remember that similes are informal and shouldn’t really be used in formal business situations.  They are however lots of fun, and hopefully now you are aware of them, you will start hearing them or reading them as you continue to improve your English!