The art of explanation is foundational to communication. Whether you’re teaching, writing, or simply having a conversation, finding the right words to explain something is essential. Similes—comparisons using “like” or “as”—are powerful linguistic tools that can transform complex ideas into vivid imagery. They can bring clarity, color, and emotion to your message.
In this article, we’ll explore more than 15 unique similes that can be used to explain things across different tones—casual, professional, and friendly. Each simile will be followed by detailed examples, usage context, tone analysis, and guidance on when and how to use it for maximum impact.
Let’s begin with why similes are so effective when explaining something.
Why Use Similes When Explaining?
Using similes helps break down difficult concepts by drawing comparisons to familiar, tangible experiences. For example:
- “Explaining quantum physics to a child is like teaching a fish to ride a bicycle.”
While humorous, this simile illustrates the near-impossibility or complexity of the task, and does so with a visual twist.
Benefits of using similes for explanation:
- Clarity: They turn abstract ideas into concrete images.
- Engagement: They make the explanation more interesting.
- Memory retention: Visual comparisons are easier to remember.
- Tone control: Depending on the simile, you can make the explanation light-hearted, professional, or humorous.
Now, let’s explore a rich collection of similes tailored for explanations.
15+ Similes for Explain
Each simile below is followed by examples, tone commentary, and when it’s best used.
1. Like peeling an onion
Meaning: Explaining something in layers or stages.
Example:
“Explaining this theory is like peeling an onion—every layer reveals something deeper.”
Tone: Reflective, slightly poetic.
Best for: Academic, educational, or introspective writing.
2. Like teaching a cat to swim
Meaning: Extremely difficult or unnatural.
Example:
“Trying to explain advanced algebra to him was like teaching a cat to swim.”
Tone: Humorous, light-hearted.
Best for: Casual speech, informal writing, or sarcastic remarks.
3. Like connecting the dots in a child’s drawing
Meaning: Making sense of a scattered or unclear situation.
Example:
“Her story was confusing at first, but explaining it was like connecting the dots in a child’s drawing.”
Tone: Visual, narrative.
Best for: Storytelling, blogs, casual content.
4. Like holding a flashlight in a dark cave
Meaning: Shedding light on something confusing.
Example:
“Her analogy was perfect—like holding a flashlight in a dark cave.”
Tone: Warm, enlightening.
Best for: Instructional or motivational writing.
5. Like untangling a ball of yarn
Meaning: Explaining something complex and messy.
Example:
“Explaining the family drama was like untangling a ball of yarn—messy, but satisfying.”
Tone: Casual, personal.
Best for: Informal writing, personal essays, or blogs.
6. Like painting with words
Meaning: Using expressive language to explain.
Example:
“He explained the battle like painting with words—I could see every detail.”
Tone: Artistic, descriptive.
Best for: Creative writing, storytelling, or literature reviews.
7. Like assembling IKEA furniture without the manual
Meaning: Challenging or confusing.
Example:
“Explaining his instructions was like assembling IKEA furniture without the manual.”
Tone: Humorous, modern.
Best for: Tech support, blog posts, relatable content.
8. Like lighting a match in a storm
Meaning: Attempting to explain when no one is listening or when it’s futile.
Example:
“Trying to explain logic in that debate was like lighting a match in a storm.”
Tone: Frustrated, poetic.
Best for: Opinion pieces, editorials.
9. Like translating dreams into words
Meaning: Expressing something deeply emotional or abstract.
Example:
“Describing what I felt was like translating dreams into words.”
Tone: Romantic, sentimental.
Best for: Poetry, love letters, or personal storytelling.
10. Like showing colors to someone blindfolded
Meaning: Attempting to explain something someone refuses to understand.
Example:
“Explaining basic respect to him was like showing colors to someone blindfolded.”
Tone: Stern, metaphorical.
Best for: Opinion pieces, social commentary.
11. Like explaining a joke to someone who didn’t laugh
Meaning: Pointless or ineffective explanations.
Example:
“Trying to explain sarcasm to her was like explaining a joke to someone who didn’t laugh.”
Tone: Witty, sarcastic.
Best for: Humor writing, casual dialogue.
12. Like drawing a map for a treasure hunt
Meaning: Explaining with excitement and mystery.
Example:
“Explaining the storyline to the kids was like drawing a map for a treasure hunt.”
Tone: Fun, adventurous.
Best for: Children’s content, creative storytelling.
13. Like tuning an old radio
Meaning: Trying to clarify something distorted or unclear.
Example:
“Getting him to understand was like tuning an old radio—static at first, but eventually clear.”
Tone: Retro, thoughtful.
Best for: Reflective writing, memoirs.
14. Like decoding a secret message
Meaning: Explaining hidden meanings or encrypted information.
Example:
“Explaining her poetry was like decoding a secret message.”
Tone: Mysterious, analytical.
Best for: Literary analysis, book reviews.
15. Like playing charades with no gestures
Meaning: Very difficult to explain due to a lack of tools or understanding.
Example:
“Explaining tech jargon to grandma was like playing charades with no gestures.”
Tone: Light, humorous.
Best for: Blogs, tech tutorials, anecdotes.
16. Like guiding someone through fog
Meaning: Helping someone understand in a confusing situation.
Example:
“Explaining the legal process to first-timers is like guiding someone through fog.”
Tone: Supportive, professional.
Best for: Legal, medical, or customer support content.
17. Like putting puzzle pieces together
Meaning: Building up understanding piece by piece.
Example:
“Explaining the crime scene was like putting puzzle pieces together.”
Tone: Logical, detective-style.
Best for: Analysis, true crime, structured essays.
Tone Nuances and Contextual Usage
Each simile suits a different purpose and tone. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
| Tone | Similes |
| Professional | Like peeling an onion, Like guiding someone through fog, Like decoding a secret message |
| Casual | Like teaching a cat to swim, Like assembling IKEA furniture, Like playing charades with no gestures |
| Creative | Like painting with words, Like drawing a map for a treasure hunt, Like translating dreams into words |
| Analytical | Like connecting the dots, Like tuning an old radio, Like putting puzzle pieces together |
5 Optimized Texting Examples
Here are five user-friendly texting examples with these similes used naturally:
- “Trying to explain this app to my dad is like teaching a cat to swim 😂”
- “Explaining that breakup to her felt like peeling an onion—so many layers.”
- “Helping you with the assignment is like putting puzzle pieces together—fun though!”
- “Your story’s confusing but intriguing… it’s like decoding a secret message 👀”
- “I love how you write—it’s like painting with words 💫”
Each of these is short, casual, and perfect for texting or social media, making your similes accessible and engaging for mobile readers.
Conclusion
Similes are not just decorative elements in language—they’re bridges to understanding. When used thoughtfully, similes for explanation can breathe life into even the most mundane or complex ideas. By choosing the right comparison based on tone and context, you can enhance clarity, emotion, and engagement in any conversation, presentation, or written piece.
Whether you’re crafting a heartfelt message, explaining a tough concept, or simply making someone laugh, similes help your words stick.
So the next time you find yourself explaining something, reach into your simile toolbox and bring your message to life.
