21 hilariously mangled metaphors

Let’s look at a figure of speech that—when used incorrectly—can leave your readers dazed and confused.

A metaphor is a figure of speech that describes an object by comparing it to another unrelated object.

Our workplace had become “Westworld,” but with sloppy programming.

When used correctly, metaphors help us paint pictures with words, adding depth to our writing. When used incorrectly, the result is quite the opposite. Here are examples of mangled metaphors:

1. That’s a kettle of fish of a different color.

2. You’ve buttered your bread, now lie in it.

3. Never lick a gift horse in the mouth.

4. Remember, Rome wasn’t burned in a day.

5. This is up my wheelhouse.

6. I’ll push some strings for you.

7. You continue to cloudy the water.

8. We’re on the same page length.

9. He’s a man without an island.

10. Look what the cat dragged out of the bag.