Final answer:
A figure of speech that makes a comparison, showing similarities between two different things using "like" or "as," is called a simile.
Step-by-step explanation:
A simile is a literary device that facilitates a comparison between two unrelated things by using the words "like" or "as." Unlike a metaphor, which asserts that one thing is another, a simile explicitly highlights the resemblance between the two elements. For example, phrases such as "as brave as a lion" or "like a rose in bloom" are similes that draw parallels by employing the comparative words "as" and "like."
The use of similes enhances the vividness of language in literature, allowing writers to create evocative and imaginative descriptions. Understanding the nuances of similes contributes to effective communication and enriches the sensory experience for readers, as writers use these comparisons to convey complex ideas and emotions.