What are the four basic analogy types?

There isn't a universally accepted categorization of analogy types into exactly four. However, here are four commonly recognized categories:

1. Literal Analogy:

* Definition: A comparison between two things that are similar in some way.

* Example: "The sun is like a giant ball of fire."

2. Figurative Analogy:

* Definition: A comparison between two things that are not literally similar but share a conceptual or abstract resemblance.

* Example: "Life is like a box of chocolates - you never know what you're gonna get."

3. Proportional Analogy (or Analogy of Proportion):

* Definition: A comparison between two pairs of things that share a similar relationship. They follow the formula "A is to B as C is to D."

* Example: "Dog is to puppy as cat is to kitten."

4. Metaphorical Analogy:

* Definition: A type of figurative analogy that uses a metaphor to make a comparison.

* Example: "He is a lion in the boardroom," implying the person is bold and powerful.

It's important to note that some sources may categorize these differently or include other types of analogies, such as:

* Causal Analogy: Explaining one event by comparing it to another event with a similar cause.

* Structural Analogy: Comparing the structures of two things.

Ultimately, the categorization of analogy types can be flexible depending on the context and purpose.