strained metaphor

USAGE SUMMARY

"strained metaphor" is a valid phrase you can use in written English.
For example: "His analogy was a strained metaphor, as it was difficult to identify the similarities between the two items he was comparing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Since boxing matches only involve two people, this doesn't even work as a wildly strained metaphor.

The Guardian - Opinion

A strained metaphor perhaps, but Carlyle's other Loach-directed movie, Carla's Song, did have him driving a double decker bus.

The Guardian - Film

Alice and her family live in a so-called smart house that comes with a talking computer that turns on appliances, greets the family and serves as a strained metaphor for what ails this brood.

The New York Times

There's a pleasing rhythmic relationship between the titles Gomorrah and Godzilla (Warner, 12), and while one could forge some kind of strained metaphor of urban destruction to link them, I'd best leave the segue there.

The Guardian - Film

That is why his speeches are occasionally enlivened with obscure references to ice hockey, moose or, as in Thursday's speech, a rather strained metaphor linking central banking to canoeing.

BBC

If my strained metaphor holds true doesn't that mean Trudeau is merely in the process of figuring himself out?

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

We've come a long way since Tennessee Williams and Edward Albee had to dance around the question, both in their lives and in their work, where they used increasingly strained metaphors to describe their inner queerness.

The New Yorker

In romance novels, these scenes are pretty much all alike, relying on an unfortunate mixture of strained metaphors and graphic anatomical detail.

Huffington Post

Labored metaphors abounded.

The New York Times

In the 1976 story "Voices Lost in Snow," Gallant uses the metaphor of snow to marvellous effect while describing a daughter's strained relationship with her detached father.

The New Yorker

Metaphor much?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strained metaphor" when you want to critique a comparison that feels forced, illogical, or difficult to understand. Ensure the context clearly indicates why the metaphor is considered 'strained'.

Common error

Avoid using "strained metaphor" to simply describe a metaphor you dislike. The phrase implies a logical disconnect or significant weakness in the comparison, not just a matter of personal preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strained metaphor" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject complement. It describes a particular type of metaphor characterized by its weakness or implausibility. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is valid and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "strained metaphor" describes a comparison that is forced, illogical, or unconvincing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound phrase, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts to critique weak or poorly reasoned comparisons. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly explains why the metaphor is considered 'strained', focusing on the logical disconnect rather than mere personal preference. Related phrases include "far-fetched analogy" and "tenuous comparison", providing alternative ways to express a similar critique. The phrase is generally used in a neutral to formal register, suitable for analytical evaluations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

far-fetched analogy

This phrase suggests the comparison is not well-supported or easily understood.

tenuous comparison

Implies the link between the compared items is weak and unconvincing.

forced analogy

Indicates the comparison feels unnatural and requires effort to comprehend.

weak simile

Similar to "strained metaphor" but specifies the comparison is explicitly stated using 'like' or 'as'.

inapt comparison

Highlights the inappropriateness or unsuitability of the comparison.

contrived metaphor

Emphasizes the artificial and unnatural nature of the metaphor.

implausible analogy

Suggests the comparison lacks credibility and is difficult to believe.

loose comparison

Denotes a lack of precision and a vague connection between the items being compared.

unconvincing comparison

The comparison fails to persuade or create a strong impression.

artificial analogy

Highlights a sense that the analogy is unnatural and perhaps overly elaborate.

FAQs

What does "strained metaphor" mean?

A "strained metaphor" describes a comparison between two things that is forced, illogical, or difficult to understand. It suggests the connection between the items is weak or unconvincing.

How can I identify a "strained metaphor"?

A "strained metaphor" often requires significant effort to understand the connection between the compared items. It might feel unnatural or require a leap of logic to grasp the intended meaning. Consider if alternatives like "far-fetched analogy" or "tenuous comparison" might be applicable.

Is it always negative to use a "strained metaphor"?

While "strained metaphor" generally carries a negative connotation, it can be used intentionally for comedic effect or to highlight the absurdity of a situation. However, clarity is crucial; ensure your audience understands you're using it deliberately and not simply making a poor comparison.

What are some alternatives to "strained metaphor"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "forced analogy", "weak simile", or "inapt comparison". The best choice depends on the specific reason the metaphor is problematic.