Which literary device connects two ideas or objects that share common traits?

An analogy is a literary device that serves to connect two ideas or objects by highlighting their similarities, particularly in terms of their characteristics or relationships. This comparison can clarify a concept or make an unfamiliar idea more relatable by equating it with something that is better understood. For example, saying "the brain is like a computer" illustrates how both function to process information, thereby helping the audience grasp the concept of brain function in a more accessible manner.

Analogies are powerful tools in both writing and speech, as they can enhance comprehension and add depth to arguments or narratives. By drawing parallels between different items, analogies encourage the reader or listener to think critically about the similarities in different contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.