metaphorical

Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English 5++朗文当代英语 5++LDOCE 5++朗文 5++

Related topics: Literature

met·a·phor·i·cal /ˌmetəˈfɒrɪkəl◂ $ -ˈfɔː-, -ˈfɑː-/ adjective 1 ALSIGN/SYMBOLa metaphorical use of a word is not concerned with real objects or physical events, but with ideas or events of a non-physical kind 隐喻的，比喻的 The word has a metaphorical as well as a literal meaning. 这个单词除了字面意思还有一层比喻意思。2 ALSIGN/SYMBOLused to show that you are using a metaphor 使用隐喻的 his need to escape from the metaphorical chains that held him 他挣脱束缚在身上的那些无形锁链的需要 —metaphorically /-kli/ adverb She was, literally and metaphorically, in perfect shape. 她身材窈窕，身体健康。

Examples from the Corpus

metaphorical• It is suggested that certain structures, which may appear metaphorical, are best treated as cases of underlexicalisation.• Verbal echoes and ambiguities may trigger off metaphorical associations that are not necessarily conceptually justified.• From its beginnings, writing about California has been a deeply metaphorical enterprise, a continuing and contested act of the imagination.• The literal and metaphorical juxtaposition of drama and game is what I want to explore here.• During the time of torture, such artists as Vera Sienra worked in the language of metaphorical mutilation.• I wondered if Venturi were just careless or if he is making some metaphorical point.• In single paragraphs of groups of sentences, Thoreau establishes metaphorical relationships between self and not self.• One could not hope to find a better medium for escape than a pair of metaphorical, spiritual wings.