The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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analogy

noun

/əˈnæləʤi/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of analogy

A cognitive tool used to understand or explain something by comparing it to something else that is similar in certain aspects.
"The teacher used an analogy to explain the concept of electricity using a flowing river as a comparison."

Detailed meaning of analogy

It involves drawing parallels or identifying similarities between two or more concepts, objects, or situations. Analogies serve as a means of clarifying complex or abstract ideas by using more familiar or concrete examples. They help to bridge the gap between what is known and what is being explored or understood. By highlighting shared characteristics or relationships, analogies provide a framework for comprehension and reasoning. Analogical thinking is not limited to specific domains and is widely employed in various disciplines, including science, language, and problem-solving. Effective use of analogies can facilitate learning, problem-solving, and creative thinking, as it allows individuals to transfer knowledge and insights from one context to another. Overall, analogies serve as a powerful cognitive tool that aids in understanding and making connections between diverse concepts or phenomena.

Example sentences containing analogy

1. She used an analogy to clarify the complex theory.
2. The analogy between the brain and a computer is insightful.
3. An analogy can make abstract concepts more understandable.
4. The analogy of life as a journey resonates with many.
5. His analogy compared teamwork to a well-oiled machine.
6. Analogies help bridge gaps in our understanding.

History and etymology of analogy

The noun 'analogy' has its etymological roots in the Greek word 'analogia,' which combines 'ana,' meaning 'according to,' and 'logos,' meaning 'word' or 'reason.' In its original Greek usage, 'analogia' referred to a proportion or correspondence between two things based on their relationship or similarity. This notion of comparing and finding parallels between different things serves as the foundation for the modern understanding of analogy. It is a cognitive tool used to elucidate or comprehend something by drawing a comparison to another thing that shares similarities in certain aspects. Therefore, the etymology of 'analogy' emphasizes the idea of reasoning and making connections between ideas or objects based on their shared characteristics or relationships, highlighting its role as a fundamental cognitive device for understanding and explanation.

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Further usage examples of analogy

1. The teacher employed a creative analogy in her lesson.
2. An analogy can simplify complex scientific ideas.
3. Finding the right analogy can clarify challenging topics.
4. The analogy of a puzzle piece fits perfectly here.
5. Analogies are powerful tools for communication.
6. The coach's sports analogy motivated the team.
7. Analogies can offer insights into human behavior.
8. His analogy likened the economy to a fragile ecosystem.
9. Analogies highlight similarities between ideas.
10. The analogy between love and a flame is poetic.
11. Effective analogies engage learners more effectively.
12. The analogy of a ship navigating uncharted waters is apt.
13. Analogies foster critical thinking and problem-solving.
14. The butterfly effect analogy illustrates interconnectedness.
15. The detective drew an analogy between the crime scene and a puzzle to understand the sequence of events.
16. The politician used an analogy of a ship navigating stormy waters to describe the challenges the country was facing.
17. The scientist used an analogy of a lock and key to explain how enzymes interact with substrates.
18. The coach used an analogy of a team working together like gears in a machine to motivate the players.
19. The author employed an analogy of a butterfly emerging from a cocoon to depict personal transformation.
20. The speaker used an analogy of a seed growing into a tree to illustrate the process of personal development.
21. The comedian used an analogy of a rollercoaster ride to describe the ups and downs of life.
22. The architect used an analogy of a symphony orchestra to explain how different elements harmonize in a building design.
23. The chef used an analogy of a recipe as a roadmap to explain the steps in preparing a complex dish.
24. The poet used an analogy of a rainbow to express the beauty and diversity of human emotions.
25. The mathematician used an analogy of a puzzle to demonstrate the problem-solving approach in solving equations.