words to describe a difficult journey

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10 Words to Describe a Difficult Journey

By Ali Dixon

If you want to present a challenging path a character in your book is taking, illustrate it using the following 10 words to describe a difficult journey.

Challenging or straining ; reaching or surpassing one’s endurance.

“The journey was a long and  trying  one, and by the end of it, they were all relieved to have finally reached their destination.”

“After their  trying  journey there, they took a long, well-earned rest.”

How It Adds Description

If a journey is difficult, then that can require a serious test of endurance.  Describing  the journey as a trying one can emphasize how difficult the journey was. You can use this word with some flexibility as well since a journey could be physically or emotionally trying.

Extending a significant distance or spanning a great length .

“Getting to the other side of the mountains would entail a  long , difficult journey.”

“If they wanted to reach their destination in time, they knew they would have to head out on their  long  journey as soon as possible.”

There are a lot of things that can make a journey difficult, including the length of the journey itself. Putting your character on a long journey can add even more tension to your story and make it more rewarding when your character finally reaches their destination.

Involving or imposing a burden .

“They all knew it would be a tiresome,  onerous  journey, so they made sure that they had packed all the supplies they would need.”

“She thought many times about giving up on her  onerous  journey, but she knew that what waited for her ahead would be worth all the trouble she had gone to.”

Onerous isn’t a word one sees often, so it can stand out to your readers. Seeing it can help to emphasize how much of a burden the adventure that your character is going on is to them.

4. Grueling

Punishing ; difficult to the point of exhaustion.

“After their long,  grueling  journey, they rewarded themselves with a hearty meal and a long, restful sleep.”

“Getting to the other side of the map would without a doubt be a  grueling  task, but it was one that the entire team was up for.”

Want to ensure that your readers know difficult the journey is on your character? Use the word grueling. This word can emphasize that not only is the journey hard, but it feels close to a punishment.

5. Exhausting

Extremely tiring .

“Since they had to plan for such an  exhausting  journey, they spent a long time beforehand making sure that they would have all the supplies they needed.”

“When he started on the road, he had been keen and bright-eyed, but by the end of the  exhausting  and challenging journey, all he wanted to do was rest.”

Something that is exhausting is more than just a little tiring. Calling the journey exhausting will help to describe both the physical state as well as the mental state your character is in when the journey is finally done.

Upward on an incline or hill ; against challenges.

“The  uphill  journey left them feeling nothing but tired by the end of it.”

“She knew that what she would find at the end of the road would be worth it, but the  uphill  climb was going to make things that much more challenging.”

The word uphill can be used literally to describe an inclined terrain your character must go up. You can also use it metaphorically to demonstrate that your character must face other challenges along the way to their destination.

7. Formidable

Causing feelings of apprehension or dread ; impressive of instilling feelings of wonder.

“He had no idea what he would find at the end of his  formidable  journey.”

“As she looked at the map in front of her, she considered what she would have to bring with her on such a  formidable  journey.”

If the journey that one of your characters is going on is quite daunting, then you can describe it as formidable. You can also use it in a slightly more positive sense to show that the journey inspires feelings of awe.

8. Intimidating

Causing a loss of confidence and inspiring feelings of timidity, fear, or anxiety .

“At first it had seemed like an easy adventure, but the more he thought about it, the more  intimidating  it became.”

“The map had seemed  intimidating  at the time, but now that she was well on her way, the road seemed much easier.”

If a journey looks like it’s going to be particularly long or hard, then it’s probably going to be pretty intimidating for the character going on it. This word will help describe the tension your character is experiencing.

Marked by difficult terrain ; challenging to travel through or across; not easy.

“The journey would be a  rough  one, and would require packing several days’ worth of supplies.”

“They would follow the  rough  road all the way to the end.”

The word rough can be used to describe the actual terrain that your characters are traveling across. You can also use it to describe the journey itself, as calling something rough means that it is challenging or not easy.

10. Satisfying

Rewarding ; causing feelings of contentment or pleasure by providing something needed.

“After such a difficult but  satisfying  journey, the team was rewarded with some good food and a few comfortable beds to sleep on.”

“She knew that despite all the challenges, the journey would be  satisfying , especially once she reached the hidden treasure.”

A difficult journey doesn’t have to be entirely negative! When your character finally reaches the end of their road, they’re likely to find a lot of satisfaction. Describing the relief and reward your characters have achieved through this journey will make it feel satisfying to your readers as well.

Adjective Words To Describe Journey

The journey has always been fun for me. Not only does it give us entertainment but it also helps educate us about various unknown problems. The most important advantage of travel is the excellent opportunity to gather information.

Information acquired first hand cannot be found in books or anywhere else. Therefore, people like to travel and it is a tradition of the past. But sometimes the journey is not pleasant and travelers have to deal with unexpected situations during the journey.

Adjective Words to Describe Journey

Following are common adjectives for describing Journey:

Purpose • Thrive Contributor Roundups • Wisdom

15 Inspiring Quotes That Give Us Strength In Difficult Times

Marina Khidekel

We were recently inspired by this line from a Mary Oliver poem, shared by best-selling author Gabby Bernstein : “If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy, don’t hesitate. Give in to it.” After a year filled with hardship and uncertainty, embracing daily delights is a courageous, essential act; it can help us face challenges with tenacity, and approach each new day with hope and possibility. 

We asked our Thrive community to share with us the quotes that instill them with resilience and strength during difficult times. Which of these resonates with you?

“Between stimulus and response there is a space, and in that space is your power and your freedom.” 

“Viktor Frankl wrote this line in Man’s Search For Meaning, which I read in high school. Decades later, this quote has become an old friend to me, taking on different meanings in the different seasons of my life as a career woman, a wife, and a full-time mom of four teenager. Now, I live in that space which I embrace as my sacred pause — my superpower to keep me grounded and clear.”

—Renee Tarantowski Baude, freelancer, Chicagoland, IL

“It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare, it is because we do not dare that things are difficult.”

“My favorite quote is from Seneca. When I was in high school, I taped this line to my bedroom door because I felt that I wanted to adopt it as a philosophy for life. As I’ve grown and become an entrepreneur, I’ve learned that being in action is the key to success.”

—Isabelle Bart, social entrepreneur and coach, Orange County, CA 

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” 

“Every time I read this Maya Angelou quote, I feel it in my bones and it instantly allows my heart to release tension. It has inspired me more times than I can count. I keep it where I can see it in my workspace when I need a lift and clarity, which during the pandemic is on the daily.”

—Shea Ki, holistic interview coach, Ashburn, VA

“Enjoy life. This is not a dress rehearsal.”

“This quote sums up a lesson I learned when I lost my dad when I was 15 years old and he was only 51. I was also reminded of this lesson within the first month of 2021, when I lost my aunt to Alzheimer’s and lost friend to Covid following a bout with Lymphoma. And now, a cherished friend’s cancer has spread. Whether the transition comes at 94, 51, or 23, it’s important to learn as soon as possible to live your life and tell your loved ones how much they mean to you.”

—Mary Kolar-DeNunzio, non-profit professional, Shaker Heights, OH

“When your purpose is greater than yourself, it’ll give you courage you never knew you had.” 

“I heard this quote from Sara Blakely at a webinar over the summer, and I immediately wrote it down because it resonated with me so much. There are plenty of moments when the chips are down in our professional and personal lives. It’s easy to feel like difficult times will never end, but that is not the case. When you consider your purpose, you are refilled with courage and confidence. This allows you to make significant strides forward and to keep thinking about the opportunities ahead.”

—Heather Taylor, communications coordinator, Calabasas, CA

“Be yourself. You’re the only one who can be.”  

“When we’re constantly scrolling through our social media accounts and comparing ourselves to what others are doing and saying, it’s important to apply a little self-care and know you’re doing your best. This quote reminds me to embrace myself with a hug when I’m feeling down.”

—Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN, New York, NY

“I’m not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” 

“This line has stuck with me since I first heard it. I have gone through countless things in my life that could have broken me, but I’ve chosen to succeed instead. This Carl Gustav Young quote reminds me that happiness is a choice, gratitude is a choice, and success is a choice. I’m proud to say that my own courage, strength, and hard work have brought me to where I am today.”

—Leah L., strategy consultant firm owner, MA

“You can’t solve a problem with the same consciousness that created it.”

“This Albert Einstein quote has been such a problem-solver for me. When you focus on the solution instead of the problem, it shifts and lifts the psyche to ascend and transcend the situation. Allowing others to be heard without judgement is far better than trying to get your point across without hearing the other person’s point of view.”

—M.J, licensed mental health counselor, FL

“Nothing unexpected and wonderful is going to happen if you have an itinerary in Paris filled with the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.”

“Anthony Bourdain said this quote, and it sums up my perspective on travel and on life. It reminds me to make room for spontaneity. Life is boring without it!”

—Lori Sussle Bonanni, founder and communications consultant, Rochester, NY

“When it is obvious the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.”

“The quote that always helps me stay resilient is a quote by Chinese philosopher, Confucius. It served me at a difficult point in my life where I had to make a tough decision. It also serves me today as a reminder to not give up on my goals when things get tough. Instead, it reminds me to reevaluate what can be done to get there and possibly course-correct.”

—Cecilia Grey, content creator and podcast host, Santa Barbara, CA

“If nothing changes, nothing changes.” 

“When life seems unfair, I find it is generally because I am doing the same things and expecting different results, resulting in frustration at the lack of desired outcome. This Courtney Stevens quote reminds me that I am in control of my life and that if I want to change a situation, I need to make a change to the process.”

—Rachel Bradbury, peer support worker, Bradford, U.K.

“It is always impossible, until it’s done.” 

“Being an African American female has been full of challenges, adversities, and rewards. This Nelson Mandela quote reminds me that rewards are only obtained when pushing through the impossible, knowing that pioneering through adversity clears the way for others. I use this quote often to motivate teams and clients who want to give up because it hasn’t been done, successfully. There is always the first.”

—Akilah Darden, president of The Darden Group, LLC, Indianapolis, IN 

“Failure is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign that you are alive and growing.” 

“This Buzz Aldrin quote is an energizing reminder that when we fail, we fail forward, and that growth is a good thing. It encourages me to embrace my failures and learn from each and every one of them so I can become my best self. It always brings me a sense of resilience when I need it.”

—Olivia Bowser, founder of Liberate, Los Angeles, CA

“Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible!’”

“I have this Audrey Hepburn quote written on a sticky note on my desk and often say it to myself when I’m feeling stuck or when I’m procrastinating. When we’re stressed and overwhelmed, our minds can convince us that there is no way forward, but I’ve found that displaying motivating quotes such as this one really helps to change my mindset in the moment.”

—Louise Dockery,  resilience coach and mentor, U.K.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lines within us.”

“I love this Ralph Waldo Emerson quote because it reminds me that It’s so easy to get caught up in time. We get stuck in the joy or frustration of the past, and in the anticipation of the future. We spend so much energy focusing on our outward environment, especially in these pandemic times, that it can be easy to forget what we have inside. This quote is a reminder to me that ultimately, I decide how to respond to the present moment and what is around me. And that power is important, particularly in the face of uncertainty.”

—Henna Garrison, mindset coach, Sicily, Italy 

Take a mindful break and immerse yourself in a “Meditative Story” here .

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Synonyms of journey

• as in to travel
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Thesaurus Definition of journey

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Synonyms & Similar Words

• peregrination
• commutation

Thesaurus Definition of journey  (Entry 2 of 2)

• peregrinate
• road - trip
• knock (about)
• perambulate

Examples of journey in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'journey.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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Thesaurus Entries Near journey

Cite this entry.

“Journey.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/journey. Accessed 19 Sep. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on journey

Nglish: Translation of journey for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of journey for Arabic Speakers

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Describing Journey: Adjectives with Examples

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the world of adjectives? Join me as we explore the power of words and delve into the realm of describing words for journeys. From the thrilling to the serene, the mundane to the extraordinary, adjectives have the ability to paint vivid pictures and evoke emotions. In this article, I’ll introduce you to a variety of adjectives that will help you bring your travel experiences to life. So, strap in and get ready to discover the perfect words to describe your next adventure.

As we navigate the vast landscape of adjectives, we’ll uncover words that capture the essence of different types of journeys. Whether you’re embarking on a wild expedition through untamed wilderness or embarking on a soul-searching pilgrimage, the right adjectives can transport your readers to the heart of the experience. From the breathtaking vistas of a mountain trek to the bustling streets of a vibrant city, we’ll explore how adjectives can add depth and richness to your travel narratives. So, let’s dive in and uncover the descriptive gems that will elevate your storytelling to new heights.

Journeys are more than just physical travels; they are transformative experiences that shape our lives. And with the right adjectives, we can convey the essence of these journeys and take our readers along for the ride. In this article, I’ll share examples and insights into the world of adjectives for journeys, helping you find the perfect words to describe the sights, sounds, and emotions that accompany every step of the way. So, let’s embark on this linguistic adventure together and unlock the power of descriptive words for journeys.

Table of Contents

How to Describe journey? – Different Scenarios

When it comes to describing a journey, it’s important to use the right adjectives to bring the experience to life. Let’s explore different scenarios and the adjectives that would accurately capture each one.

• Adventure : When describing an adventurous journey, you want to highlight the excitement, thrill, and sense of exploration. Adjectives like “thrilling,” “exhilarating,” “daring,” and “wild” can help convey the adrenaline rush and the sense of stepping into the unknown.
• Serenity : For a more peaceful and calming journey, words like “tranquil,” “serene,” “soothing,” and “relaxing” can help create a sense of tranquility. Think of a journey through a peaceful countryside or a serene beach at sunset.
• Transformation : Journeys can often be transformative experiences, where we learn and grow. Adjectives like “life-changing,” “transformative,” “enlightening,” and “inspiring” can capture the profound impact of such journeys on our lives.
• Cultural : If your journey involves immersing yourself in a new culture, you’ll want to use adjectives that highlight the richness and diversity of the experience. Words like “vibrant,” “colorful,” “authentic,” and “enriching” can convey the cultural significance and the depth of your immersion.
• Spiritual : For journeys that touch the soul and delve into spirituality, adjectives like “sacred,” “uplifting,” “soul-stirring,” and “transcendent” can help articulate the profound connection and sense of inner peace experienced through spiritual journeys.
• Epic : For journeys of epic proportions, adjectives like “majestic,” “awe-inspiring,” “grand,” and “monumental” can capture the scale, grandeur, and significance of the adventure. Think of scaling towering mountains or exploring ancient ruins.

In each scenario, it’s important to choose adjectives that best reflect the essence of the journey. By carefully selecting the right words, you can transport your readers to the sights, sounds, and emotions of your journey, making it come alive in their imagination.

Keep in mind that these descriptions are just a starting point. Feel free to explore and experiment with different adjectives to convey your own unique journey.

Describing Words for journey in English

Being able to effectively describe a journey is a valuable skill. The right choice of adjectives can bring a journey to life and paint a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. In this section, I will provide you with a list of adjectives to describe different aspects of a journey, allowing you to enhance your storytelling abilities.

Let’s dive into the world of descriptive words for journeys:

• Adventurous Journeys
• Peaceful and Calming Journeys
• Transformative Journeys
• Cultural Journeys
• Spiritual Journeys
• Journeys of Epic Proportions

Feel free to mix and match these adjectives to create descriptions that accurately capture the essence of your journeys. Remember, variety is key to keeping your prose engaging and captivating. Experiment with different adjectives to add depth and richness to your storytelling.

By using descriptive words effectively, you can transport your readers to far-off places, evoke emotions, and create lasting impressions. So go ahead and let these adjectives guide your journey descriptions!

Keep exploring, keep experimenting, and keep expanding your vocabulary. The possibilities are limitless!

And now, onto the next section of this article, where we will explore the importance of storytelling in journey descriptions.

Adjectives for journey

When it comes to describing a journey, the right choice of adjectives can make all the difference. They have the power to transport readers to a different time and place, evoke emotions, and create a vivid picture in their minds. In this section, I’ll provide you with a range of positive and negative adjectives that can be used to effectively describe different aspects of a journey.

Positive Adjectives for Journey

Positive adjectives can capture the excitement, beauty, and joy of a journey. They can paint a picture of adventure, discovery, and awe. Here are some examples of positive adjectives that can bring your descriptions to life:

Negative Adjectives for Journey

While journeys can be exciting and fulfilling, there are also moments of challenge, fear, and disappointment. Negative adjectives can help convey these experiences and add contrast to your descriptions. Here are a few negative adjectives that can be used to describe different aspects of a journey:

Synonyms and Antonyms with Example Sentences

Synonyms for journey.

When it comes to finding the right words to describe a journey, it’s important to have a diverse vocabulary. Here are some synonyms for the word “journey” along with example sentences:

Using these synonyms helps to add variety and depth to your journey descriptions.

Antonyms for journey

In addition to synonyms, it’s also helpful to have antonyms to create contrast in your descriptions. Here are some antonyms for the word “journey” along with example sentences:

By incorporating antonyms into your writing, you can effectively highlight the different aspects and emotions associated with a journey.

Remember to choose words that best capture the essence of your journey. Combining positive and negative adjectives can create engaging and captivating descriptions. Let your creativity shine and tell your story with vivid and impactful language.

Describing a journey is an art, and adjectives play a crucial role in capturing the essence of our experiences. Throughout this article, I have explored various types of journeys and provided examples of adjectives that can accurately depict each one.

From adventurous journeys filled with excitement and thrill, to peaceful and calming journeys that offer solace and tranquility, we have seen how the right choice of adjectives can transport readers to different worlds. Transformative journeys that change us from within, cultural journeys that immerse us in new traditions and customs, spiritual journeys that awaken our souls, and journeys of epic proportions that leave us in awe – each one can be vividly described with the right words.

I have also highlighted the importance of using synonyms and antonyms for the word “journey” to add variety and depth to our descriptions. By combining positive and negative adjectives, we can create engaging and captivating narratives that truly reflect our experiences.

So, as you embark on your own journey, remember to let your creativity shine and choose adjectives that paint a vivid picture. Captivate your readers with impactful language and tell your story in a way that is uniquely yours.

Happy writing and may your journeys be filled with beautiful words!

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noun as in travel from one place to another

Strongest matches

• exploration

Strong matches

• constitutional
• peregrination
• transmigration
• vagabondage

verb as in travel

• peregrinate

Weak matches

• knock about
• take a trip

Example Sentences

If either is selected, it would not launch until 2026 at the earliest, and would take at least a few months to make the journey.

The job is a cherry on top, but the journey and the experience of being able to audition and leave your heart in the room and feel good about it, no matter what happens, that’s rare and that was amazing.

Cross-device measurement helps connect the dots of your customer’s journey and ensures you know how effective your campaigns are at driving user behavior.

You are somewhat of a new grandmother and you’ve been enjoying that journey.

Instead of having numerous articles addressing each of these particular questions, brands and publishers could consolidate this information as it is all pertinent to the same stage of the journey that the user is in.

The brokers then scout out potential “crew members” who can earn substantial discounts for working the journey.

The next day, after driving to Putney on the outskirts of London, we start the end of our journey.

The NYPD Emerald Society pipes and drums struck up a slow march and the procession began the journey to the cemetery.

We began a journey with Koenig in the first episode of Serial.

But the sunlight is threatening to fade and a three-and-a-half-hour river journey back to Kisangani looms.

With a hammer the boy knocked off some of the slats of the small box in which Squinty had made his journey.

Then summoning a smart young jemadar with whom he had talked a good deal during the journey, he asked him to read the chit.

But dismissing them from our thoughts for the time being, as we did then from our presence, let us continue our journey.

If the journey is now distasteful to her, she has but her own rashness to blame in having sought it herself.

It was past sundown when they left San Bernardino, but a full moon made the night as good as day for their journey.

Related Words

Words related to journey are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word journey . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

noun as in existence

• subsistence

noun as in revolution, track, boundary

• bound/bounds
• circulation
• circumference
• circumnavigation
• circumscription
• circumvolution
• perambulation

verb as in sail

• keep steady pace
• push off/push on
• wander about

noun as in sailing expedition

verb as in travel, visit

• pass through

Viewing 5 / 72 related words

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

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Metaphors for Life That Can Fit Your Journey

Popular Metaphor Examples to Inspire and Motivate you

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• Using Metaphors

Metaphors about life are figures of speech that state that one thing is actually another thing. They are a way of creating a comparison that while not literally true, provides a figurative meaning. This can help you think about your life and problems in a different way , also serving as a source of encouragement, motivation, or gratitude.

Here we explore some common metaphor examples about life that can be used to inspire you in your daily life. These metaphors may also help you better understand some of the challenges you face, giving you the ability to see more clearly why you feel the way you do or even how to move forward.

How Metaphors About Life Begin

As children, we begin to understand and organize the world. If we think of the brain as a filing cabinet, childhood is when we open new files and label them. We then spend the rest of our lives putting material in these files.

Metaphors often begin as a way to understand the world around us, both as individuals and within the communities in which we live. They can make it easier to know where to place this information in our internal filing system.

Impact of Metaphors for Life

Even if we don't know the origin of certain life metaphors, many have stood the test of time for good reasons. These metaphor examples not only help us define and describe an experience but they can be used to improve our lives in many ways.

For example, some people see life as a battle. Every encounter is a struggle, and if they don't win, they feel like they have lost. Others view life as an adventure. Each new day brings new opportunities to explore, and if something goes badly today, there's always tomorrow.

If you are facing a challenge , a metaphor might help you see the big picture and give you strength. For example, someone going through cancer treatment may look at the journey as climbing a mountain. It may be difficult at the moment, but the view that lies at the top helps them keep pushing forward.

Metaphors can also provide a picture that helps others enter your world. A picture is often worth a thousand words, but a word picture (a metaphor) can sometimes do the same. Alternatively, a negative metaphor may help you see that you haven't been living your life the way you wish. It might be the stimulus you need to make changes.

While there are no specific studies looking at commonly held life metaphors and wellness, positive thinking is beneficial in many ways. A general attitude of optimism has been correlated with lower rates of cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and infection.

Common Metaphor Examples for Life

Metaphors for life are not always obvious. We may have to stand back a long way to see patterns. Because the way we look at things can have a great impact on how our lives unravel, it's worthwhile to think about the metaphors that fit the life we currently live.

Metaphors can be positive or negative. These are just examples and not every metaphor will resonate with every individual. Take a moment to think of other metaphor examples that may describe your life or serve you better.

If you see your life as a garden, you may feel that relationships with family and friends can be cultivated like flowers or vegetables. Relationships, like flowers, need regular watering. They need sunshine. Sometimes they need to be pruned. Sometimes you need to weed the garden (or eliminate toxic friends ).

The end result of careful and regular care, with timely interventions for insect infestations or decay, can lead to plants (or relationships) that are growing, producing oxygen that helps you breathe. They also create beauty as they flower and bloom.

You may see a battle as a metaphor for your life if everything is a competition or a struggle. In a battle, you are always either winning or losing. If a battle represents your life, you may wish to look at how life isn't always about winning or losing.

Relationships, especially, are not always a competition. Sometimes it is better to be more loving toward others than to be right or win.

Viewing your life as a mission can be either positive or negative. You may feel that you have talents and gifts you wish to share. On the other hand, you might feel that you need to convince others that your point of view is the only correct one.

Just as with missions throughout history, your life can be a platform to bring goodness to the world. Alternatively, you may see your mission as the need to impose your beliefs on those who do not wish to hear them.

A journey is a common metaphor for life as it reminds us that the destination is not our only goal. Like with any journey, there are times when the roads are straight and times when they are winding.

This metaphor example helps us remember that there will be ups and downs and potholes along the way—times when life will feel easy and times when life feels hard . Yet, there are also often wonderful surprises and fun discoveries that we would never have experienced if it weren't for the route we chose.

An adventure can also be a beautiful metaphor for life. We don't always know where we are going, but the thrill of our travels (our day-to-day living) leaves us excited and ready to see and experience new things.

A building is a solid metaphor for life and can be a reminder that a sturdy foundation is needed before building higher. Once you have a firm foundation in place, whatever that means to you, it's easier to confidently add floors and rooms that will stand the test of time and weather.

Roller Coaster

This metaphor example can describe life or it can describe the speed bumps we encounter. For example, people with a chronic disease know the roller coaster effect of a challenging diagnosis. Using the metaphor of a roller coaster also illustrates what many people who have had hardships understand so well.

You don't fully experience the high points of your journey without the contrast of the lows. For example, studies are now finding that being diagnosed with cancer doesn't just introduce challenges but can also change people in positive ways as well.

Stained-Glass Window

The metaphor of a stained-glass window illustrates not just the variety of lights and colors which make up our world, but the beauty in every person and situation. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude by taking the time to see what isn't obvious at a quick glance can be illustrated by this metaphor.

Mountain Climb

Climbing a mountain is a great metaphor for many parts of our lives. It can describe our educational path or the steps we take in climbing the corporate ladder. Life often consists of hierarchies.

This metaphor example also illustrates that it typically takes hard work, determination, and sometimes sheer endurance to get where we wish to go. Most mountain paths are not directly uphill, but take us down through valleys to get to the next peak.

Emotional resilience allows you to follow the trail as it descends before it turns the corner and heads back up again. This can improve your ability to cope and protect mental health during times of stress.

A race can be both a positive and negative metaphor for life. In the biblical sense of the metaphor, we are called to run the race of life not only for the prize.

A race can also be a negative metaphor, as in the "rat race," describing how sometimes we are so busy going from one place to another that we never really stop to enjoy any particular moment. In yet another negative sense, a race can describe the practice of always finding the fastest route, or needing to keep up with the proverbial Joneses.

If you view life as a courtroom, life can be challenging. In a courtroom, everything in life should be fair. Real life, however, is not always fair.

Good people die young and criminals go free. If you try to constrain your life to the metaphor of a courtroom, you open yourself up for repeated disappointment.

Stepping Stones

Stepping stones can be a metaphor for life in many ways. In a negative sense, stepping stones may describe the phenomena in which we barely get comfortable where we are before we look for a better job or a bigger house. In another sense, stepping stones can be a positive metaphor for a life lived with goals in mind and conscious awareness of the steps needed to get there.

This metaphor can also describe how we sometimes take a detour right or left along our way to prevent negative influences from catching up with us. An example of this type of metaphor is stepping stones crossing a stream in a garden.

Life is a classroom in so many ways and there are always new lessons to learn no matter your age. This metaphor can be a reminder to keep your mind active and strive to continue to learn throughout your life.

A prison can be a metaphor for a life in which you feel out of control . You may feel like you don't have choices and that others have the power. If this is you, it might be helpful to visualize a key to the door by which you can escape to your freedom, and what that might mean in real life.

Learning to reframe a situation can shift your perspective and change how you see a situation. Doing this can help reduce worry, stress, and anxiety.

A battery represents a life metaphor example of being drained and recharged through life, such as the daily drain of energy related to work, followed by weekends and evenings in which to recharge. Often taking small periods of time to recharge at frequent intervals leaves your battery less likely to die (lose all energy).

How to Use These Metaphor Examples

The examples above are just a few of the metaphors that illustrate people's lives. What metaphors fit your life? Do they work for you or do they cause problems and limit your choices? It's possible to change metaphors or modify yours (such as finding the key to the prison cell) but it can take some effort.

Taking the time to think about the metaphors that fit your life can help you find patterns that aren't working well for you, motivate you in positive directions, and help you cope with the obstacles we all periodically face. Think of your life metaphors today, but don't stop there.

Periodically re-think your life metaphors. Are they positive metaphors that bring you peace and contentment , help you reach goals, or allow you to see the beauty around you? Or are they negative metaphors that are limiting your life?

Good mental health includes having metaphors that help you see the big picture of your life. After thinking about your life metaphors, learn about other ways in which you can become a positive thinker and reduce stress in your life .

Metaphors about life can be helpful ways of thinking through problems you might be facing. They can also serve as a source of inspiration and motivation to encourage you to keep working toward your goals.

At other times, negative metaphors might hold you back or contribute to feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. If your life metaphors are hurting instead of helping, look for ways to reframe your thinking in order to take a more positive, optimistic approach.

Black Rupp N. The rise and fall of metaphor: A study in meaning and meaninglessness . Semiotica . 2016:213:419-433. doi:10.1515/sem-2015-0131

Kim ES, Hagan KA, Grodstein F, Demeo DL, De Vivo I, Kubzansky LD. Optimism and cause-specific mortality: a prospective cohort study. Am J Epidemiol . 2017;185(1):21-29. doi:10.1093/aje/kww182

Holtmaat K, van der Spek N, Lissenberg-Witte BI, Cuijpers P, Verdonck-de Leeuw IM. Positive mental health among cancer survivors: overlap in psychological well-being, personal meaning, and posttraumatic growth .  Support Care Cancer . 2019;27(2):443-450. doi:10.1007/s00520-018-4325-8

Färber F, Rosendahl J. The association between resilience and mental health in the somatically ill .  Dtsch Arztebl Int . 2018;115(38):621-627. doi:10.3238/arztebl.2018.0621

Eagleson C, Hayes S, Mathews A, Perman G, Hirsch CR. The power of positive thinking: Pathological worry is reduced by thought replacement in generalized anxiety disorder .  Behav Res Ther . 2016;78:13-18. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2015.12.017

By Leonard Holmes, PhD Leonard Holmes, PhD, is a pioneer of the online therapy field and a clinical psychologist specializing in chronic pain and anxiety.

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Describing a difficult journey

Students write about a challenging journey, using a choice of four images as a prompt, or their own imagination. The images feature escape from oppression, white-water rafting, physical training and a polar expedition. 

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• Definition of difficult
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25 Metaphors for Journey

The journey of life is a rollercoaster ride, much like a marathon through a treasure hunt of experiences. It’s a pilgrimage we all embark on, a voyage across the sea of time.

Sometimes, it’s a road trip filled with hikes and safaris through the wilderness, while at other times, it feels like a journey to the center of the earth. Metaphors provide a unique way to understand and describe the various aspects of our journeys in life.

In this article, we’ll explore 25 captivating metaphors for a journey, each with its own distinct meaning and a sentence to illustrate it.

Metaphors for Journey

1. the journey of life.

Meaning: This metaphor refers to the entirety of a person’s life, from birth to death, and all the experiences and events that occur along the way.

In a Sentence: The journey of life is filled with both joyful moments and challenging obstacles, all contributing to our personal growth.

2. A Rollercoaster Ride

Meaning: This metaphor refers to the ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected events that can occur during a journey.

In a Sentence: Last year felt like a rollercoaster ride, with unexpected job changes, family surprises, and travel adventures.

3. A Marathon

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is a long and grueling effort that requires persistence, endurance, and determination to complete.

In a Sentence: Pursuing a Ph.D. often feels like running a marathon, requiring years of dedication and hard work.

4. A Treasure Hunt

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is an exciting and adventurous quest to find something valuable or sought after.

In a Sentence: Exploring the ancient ruins felt like a treasure hunt, as we searched for hidden artifacts beneath the layers of history.

5. A Pilgrimage

Meaning: This metaphor refers to a journey made for a spiritual or religious purpose, often involving a long and difficult journey to a sacred place.

In a Sentence: The pilgrimage to Mecca is a deeply spiritual journey for millions of Muslims worldwide.

6. A Voyage

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves traveling over water, often involving a ship or other vessel.

In a Sentence: Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean was a transformative voyage, allowing me to connect with the vastness of the sea.

7. A Road Trip

Meaning: This metaphor refers to a journey made by car, often over a long distance and involving many stops along the way.

In a Sentence: We decided to take a spontaneous road trip, exploring hidden gems along the scenic route.

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is a physical journey, often over rough or challenging terrain.

In a Sentence: Hiking through the rugged mountains gave me a sense of accomplishment and an appreciation for nature’s beauty.

9. A Safari

Meaning: This metaphor refers to a journey made for the purpose of observing or studying wildlife, often in an exotic or foreign location.

In a Sentence: Going on a safari in Africa allowed us to witness the majesty of wild animals in their natural habitat.

10. A Journey to the Center of the Earth

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves exploring unknown or hidden depths or depths of the earth.

In a Sentence: Starting a new business feels like a journey to the center of the earth, with unforeseen challenges lurking beneath the surface.

11. A Journey Through Time

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves traveling through different periods of history or different stages of life.

In a Sentence: Visiting historical landmarks is like taking a journey through time, as you immerse yourself in the past.

12. A Journey to the Stars

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves reaching for the heights or exploring the vastness of space.

In a Sentence: Pursuing your dreams can often feel like a journey to the stars, filled with infinite possibilities.

13. A Climb Up a Mountain

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves overcoming obstacles and reaching new heights or accomplishments.

In a Sentence: Graduating from college felt like a steep climb up a mountain, but the view from the top was worth every effort.

14. A Journey to the Top

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves striving for success or reaching a high level of achievement.

In a Sentence: Climbing the corporate ladder requires dedication and hard work, as you strive for your journey to the top.

15. A Journey to the Bottom

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves exploring deep or hidden depths or uncovering the truth about something.

In a Sentence: Investigating the unsolved mysteries of history often leads to a journey to the bottom, where hidden truths may lie.

16. A Journey Through the Desert

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is a difficult and challenging experience, often involving isolation or a lack of resources.

In a Sentence: Starting a small business during a recession can feel like a journey through the desert, with scarce opportunities.

17. A Journey Through the Jungle

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is an exciting and unpredictable experience, full of dangers and unknowns.

In a Sentence: Navigating the world of startups is like a journey through the jungle, where you must adapt to survive.

18. A Journey Through the Darkness

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves facing challenges or obstacles that are difficult to see or understand.

In a Sentence: Overcoming personal struggles often feels like a journey through the darkness, but there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

19. A Journey Through the Wilderness

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves exploring uncharted or unfamiliar territory.

In a Sentence: Venturing into a new career field can be a journey through the wilderness, as you navigate the unknown.

20. A Journey Through the Looking Glass

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves entering a world that is different or strange in some way, often involving a shift in perspective or understanding.

In a Sentence: Traveling to a foreign country is like a journey through the looking glass, offering a fresh perspective on life.

21. A Journey Through the Maze

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is a confusing or convoluted experience, involving many twists and turns.

In a Sentence: Navigating the complexities of bureaucracy can feel like a journey through a never-ending maze.

22. A Journey Through the Underworld

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves exploring the depths of the earth or facing dark or difficult challenges.

In a Sentence: Recovering from a severe illness can be a journey through the underworld, battling against the odds.

23. A Journey to the Promised Land

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey is a quest for something that is desirable or sought after, often involving a sense of hope or optimism.

In a Sentence: Pursuing one’s dreams often feels like a journey to the promised land, where success awaits on the horizon.

24. A Journey Through the Fire

Meaning: This metaphor suggests that a journey involves facing difficult or intense challenges that test one’s strength or resilience.

In a Sentence: Surviving adversity is like a journey through the fire, where your inner strength is forged in the flames.

Metaphors for journeys enrich our understanding of life’s diverse experiences. Each metaphor provides a unique perspective, allowing us to relate our personal journeys to familiar concepts such as rollercoaster rides, treasure hunts, or voyages. Whether we’re climbing mountains or navigating through mazes, our journeys shape us and define our stories.

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