metaphorical
/ˌmɛtəˈfɒɹɪkəl/
Group 13Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Used in a metaphor; figurative rather than literal GRE
Example in Context
The poet's metaphorical language transformed the ordinary landscape into a battlefield of competing emotions.
Synonyms
symbolicfigurativerepresentative
Etymology
From Greek roots meaning to carry beyond—figurative language.
- meta- (Greek) — beyond
- phora (Greek) — to carry
Memory Aid
🪨Sounds like “meta for a coal”
A miner digging METAL FOR A COAL, but instead finds a METAPHORICAL treasure chest of wisdom!
Visual Association
📖A book with swirling words that transform into vivid images, making ideas come to life.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “metaphorical” mean on the GRE?
metaphorical (adjective) means “Used in a metaphor; figurative rather than literal”. The poet's metaphorical language transformed the ordinary landscape into a battlefield of competing emotions.
How to remember “metaphorical” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “metaphorical” sounds like “meta for a coal”. A miner digging METAL FOR A COAL, but instead finds a METAPHORICAL treasure chest of wisdom!
What are synonyms for “metaphorical”?
Common synonyms: symbolic, figurative, representative.