Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of metaphor or figurative analogy?

A metaphor or figurative analogy primarily involves comparing two entities to highlight similarities and enhance understanding, often through vivid imagery. The use of direct comparisons or comparisons of dissimilar entities illustrates how one thing can represent or illuminate aspects of another, thus fostering deeper insight.

On the other hand, a literal interpretation of statements is not characteristic of metaphor or figurative analogy. Metaphors rely on implied meaning and the abstraction of ideas rather than straightforward, literal definitions. By contrasting different or similar entities creatively, metaphors encourage readers or listeners to think beyond the surface and explore more nuanced meanings, which is fundamentally different from a literal understanding. This distinction is critical in identifying what constitutes figurative language and how it operates to enrich communication.