What is an analogy used for in communication?

An analogy is used in communication to highlight and explain the similarities between two different concepts or ideas. By drawing a comparison, an analogy allows the speaker or writer to make a complex or unfamiliar concept more relatable and understandable. This technique helps the audience visualize or grasp the nuances of the subject at hand by linking it to something they are already familiar with. For instance, saying that life is like a journey helps paint a picture of life’s ups and downs by evoking the familiar experience of traveling.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the function of an analogy. Presenting opposing viewpoints and introducing a fallacy involves arguments and critical thinking rather than comparative analysis. Similarly, providing insufficient evidence does not engage the audience in understanding concepts better; rather, it results in weak or ineffective communication. Thus, the primary purpose of an analogy is to clarify and draw parallels, making option B the appropriate choice.