What is the meaning of "metaphor"?

A metaphor is a figure of speech in which one thing is described as if it were another, creating an implicit comparison between two unlike entities. This comparison is not made with "like" or "as," which distinguishes metaphors from similes. For example, saying "time is a thief" suggests that time steals moments from our lives, highlighting its elusive nature and creating a powerful imagery that conveys a deeper meaning.

The aspect of implicit comparison is crucial because it allows the metaphor to convey emotions, ideas, or qualities that would be less impactful if stated directly. In contrast, the other options present different figures of speech or methods of expression. For instance, a literal comparison does not capture the essence of metaphor since it involves direct correlation without abstraction. Stating facts straightforwardly would lack any figurative language, making it unrelated to the metaphorical form. Exaggeration for emphasis characterizes hyperbole, not metaphor, as it is primarily used to create emphasis rather than implicit comparison.