What term describes the similarity between things that are dissimilar?

The term that describes the similarity between things that are dissimilar is analogy. An analogy is a comparison made to show a similarity between two different things. It often involves explaining a complex idea or a relationship between two things by relating it to something more familiar or straightforward. By drawing these parallels, an analogy helps clarify concepts by highlighting their similarities despite their different natures.

In contrast, comparison generally encompasses a broader examination that can include finding both similarities and differences. Metaphor, on the other hand, is a figure of speech that implies a comparison by stating that one thing is another, thus emphasizing a conceptual similarity rather than focusing on the relationship between dissimilar items. Contrast specifically highlights the differences between things rather than their similarities. This nuanced understanding of terms emphasizes why analogy is the most fitting choice for describing similarities in dissimilarity.