Which line best demonstrates a direct comparison without using like or as?

• A. Time is a thief that steals moments
• B. His courage shone like a beacon
• C. She fought bravely
• D. Her voice was as soft as silk

Answer: (A)

Direct comparison without using like or as is a metaphor, where one thing is described as another. In Time is a thief that steals moments, time is directly equated to a thief, which creates a vivid image of time slipping away. The other lines use like or as to compare, which are similes, or state an action without a comparison. Therefore, this line best demonstrates a direct comparison without using like or as.