A traditional rhetorical simile follows a “ [descriptive word or adjective] like/as a [noun]” structure in a few words. Examples of similes like this are: As bold as brass As tall as a giraffe Fits like a glove Sticks out like a sore thumb As cool as a cucumber As cunning as a fox

To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like" or "as," but can also use other words that indicate an explicit comparison. Eleanor Roosevelt's line, " A woman is like a teabag —you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water," is an example of simile.

A simile is a useful way to describe something without using a long list of adjectives. It can create a vivid image in the reader’s mind, helping to engage and absorb them. 'Their food was tough as old boots.' This simile suggests that the food was leathery, dry and impossible to chew.