Figure of Speech is a word or expression used to give particular emphasis to an idea or sentiment. Some figures of speech, such as simile, metaphor, personification and apostrophe are based on resemblance. Some are based on contrast (antithesis, epigram) while some others are based on the construction of the plot, such as climax and anticlimax.

Simile

Here a comparison is made between two distinctly different objects which have at least one point in common. The simile is usually introduced by such words as like, so or as.

The righteous shall flourish as the palm tree.

O my Love is like a red, red rose.

O my Love is like a melodie.

Life is as tedious as a twice-told tale.

Her eyes were like diamonds.

Note that a comparison of two things of the same kind is not a simile.

Some common similes of everyday speech are given below:

As proud as a peacock

As bold as brass

As clear as crystal

As good as gold

As old as the hills

As cool as cucumber

Here inanimate objects or abstract ideas are spoken of as though they were endowed with life and intelligence.

Necessity is the mother of invention.

Pride goeth forth on horseback, grand and gay.

Sky lowered and muttering thunder, some sad drops

 Wept at completing of the mortal sin. (Paradise Lost by Milton)