Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

Which of the following best defines a simile?

1. A direct comparison without using like or as

2. A type of metaphor that suggests similarity

3. A comparison using the words like or as

4. A figure of speech that emphasizes contrast

The correct answer is: A comparison using the words like or as

A simile is best defined as a comparison using the words "like" or "as." This figure of speech draws a direct resemblance between two different things in a way that adds vividness or clarity to the description. For example, saying "as brave as a lion" illustrates bravery by comparing it to a well-known quality of lions, making the concept more relatable and impactful to the reader. The choice accurately captures the essence of how similes function in language, allowing writers to create imagery and connection through comparisons that resonate with readers. Notably, while other options touch on comparative language, they either misrepresent the function of a simile or suggest a different type of comparison, such as metaphors or contrasts, which do not align with the specific definition of a simile.