Colloquialism vs. Metaphor — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 16, 2024
Colloquialism refers to informal language unique to a particular group, while a metaphor is a figure of speech that describes an object as being the same as another to highlight similarities.
Difference Between Colloquialism and Metaphor
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Colloquialisms are expressions, words, or phrases that are used informally by a specific group or region. They often convey familiarity and local cultural identity, enhancing the relatability of language. On the other hand, metaphors are used universally in language to express complex ideas through the direct comparison of two unrelated subjects, often enhancing understanding and adding literary depth.
While colloquialisms are embedded in everyday speech and often include slang or regional dialect, metaphors transcend regional language barriers, providing a creative way to enrich narratives across different languages and cultures. Metaphors are not restricted to informal contexts and are widely employed in both literature and everyday communication.
Colloquialisms can make language appear more natural or 'homey' in a specific cultural setting, often being used to strengthen cultural identity among speakers. Conversely, metaphors serve as a powerful literary device that can evoke vivid imagery and emotions, making abstract concepts more tangible and relatable.
Unlike colloquialisms, which may become outdated or change as local languages evolve, metaphors have a timeless quality that allows them to be used repeatedly in various contexts without losing their impact or meaning. Metaphors are integral to the evolution of language and artistic expression.
The understanding of colloquialisms can be a barrier to comprehension for non-natives of a language or region, as they are deeply rooted in local customs and history. Metaphors, while sometimes culturally specific, generally offer a broader range of understanding due to their based-on common human experiences and observations.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Informal language specific to a group or region
Figure of speech comparing two different things
Usage
Everyday, casual communication
Literary and everyday use
Purpose
Enhance cultural relatability
Illustrate or emphasize concepts
Cultural dependency
High (varies by region and group)
Low (universal, though some are culture-specific)
Evolution
Changes with language and culture
Timeless, remains effective across eras
Compare with Definitions
Colloquialism
An informal term or expression used by a particular group.
Buggy is a colloquialism for a shopping cart in some parts of the U.S.
Metaphor
Expression that equates one thing with another to provide deeper meaning.
The world's a stage.
Colloquialism
Expressions that convey familiarity among speakers.
Mate is a colloquialism used in Australia for friend.
Metaphor
Like" or "as.
He is a shining star.
Colloquialism
Slang or idiomatic expressions used informally.
Cheesed off is a British colloquialism for being annoyed.
Metaphor
A figure of speech that describes an object or action as being something it is not.
Time is a thief.
Colloquialism
Informal words often used in casual conversation.
Gonna is a colloquialism for going to.
Metaphor
A device used to create vivid imagery in writing or speech.
Her voice is music to my ears.
Colloquialism
Language or phrases peculiar to a specific region or group.
Y'all is a common colloquialism in the southern United States.
Metaphor
A way to convey complex ideas simply and powerfully.
The fog of uncertainty.
Colloquialism
Colloquialism or colloquial language is the linguistic style used for casual communication. It is the most common functional style of speech, the idiom normally employed in conversation and other informal contexts.
Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech that, for rhetorical effect, directly refers to one thing by mentioning another. It may provide (or obscure) clarity or identify hidden similarities between two different ideas.
Colloquialism
A word or phrase that is not formal or literary and is used in ordinary or familiar conversation
The colloquialisms of the streets
Metaphor
A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable
Her poetry depends on suggestion and metaphor
When we speak of gene maps and gene mapping, we use a cartographic metaphor
Colloquialism
Colloquial style or quality.
Metaphor
A figure of speech in which a word or phrase that ordinarily designates one thing is used to designate another, thus making an implicit comparison, as in "a sea of troubles" or "All the world's a stage" (Shakespeare).
Colloquialism
A colloquial expression.
Metaphor
One thing conceived as representing another; a symbol
"Hollywood has always been an irresistible, prefabricated metaphor for the crass, the materialistic, the shallow, and the craven" (Neal Gabler).
Colloquialism
A colloquial word or phrase; a common spoken expression.
Metaphor
The use of a word or phrase to refer to something other than its literal meaning, invoking an implicit similarity between the thing described and what is denoted by the word or phrase.
Colloquialism
Colloquial style of speaking.
Metaphor
A word or phrase used in such implied comparison.
Colloquialism
A colloquial expression, not employed in formal discourse or writing.
Metaphor
The use of an everyday object or concept to represent an underlying facet of the computer and thus aid users in performing tasks.
Desktop metaphor; wastebasket metaphor
Colloquialism
A colloquial expression; characteristic of spoken or written communication that seeks to imitate informal speech
Metaphor
(intransitive) To use a metaphor.
Metaphor
(transitive) To describe by means of a metaphor.
Metaphor
The transference of the relation between one set of objects to another set for the purpose of brief explanation; a compressed simile; e. g., the ship plows the sea.
Metaphor
A figure of speech in which an expression is used to refer to something that it does not literally denote in order to suggest a similarity
Common Curiosities
What is a colloquialism?
A colloquialism is an informal expression used by a specific group or in a specific region.
Are colloquialisms understood globally?
Colloquialisms are often not understood outside their specific regional or cultural context.
Can colloquialisms be used in formal writing?
Colloquialisms are generally avoided in formal writing due to their informal nature.
How do metaphors enhance communication?
Metaphors enhance communication by simplifying complex ideas and creating vivid imagery.
How do colloquialisms impact language learning?
Colloquialisms can complicate language learning for non-natives due to their cultural specificity.
What is a metaphor?
A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares two unrelated subjects to highlight their similarities.
Why are colloquialisms important in communication?
Colloquialisms add local flavor and authenticity to communication, making it more relatable.
What makes a metaphor effective in literature?
Metaphors are effective in literature as they add depth and layers of meaning to the text.
What is the difference between a metaphor and a simile?
Unlike metaphors, similes make comparisons using "like" or "as."
How do colloquialisms evolve?
Colloquialisms evolve with changes in language and culture, reflecting current trends and influences.
What are some examples of metaphors in famous literature?
Examples include "All the world's a stage" from Shakespeare's "As You Like It."
Are all colloquialisms slang?
Not all colloquialisms are slang; some are simply informal terms used within specific communities.
Can metaphors be found in daily conversation?
Yes, metaphors are commonly used in both daily conversation and literature to convey ideas creatively.
Can metaphors be based on cultural knowledge?
Some metaphors are based on cultural knowledge, making them resonate more with certain audiences.
How can one learn to use metaphors effectively?
Learning to use metaphors effectively involves reading widely and practicing creative writing skills.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
