You use the word metaphorical to indicate that you are not using words with their ordinary meaning, but are describing something by means of an image or symbol.
例句
It turns out Levy is talking in metaphorical terms...利維原來說的是一種比喻。The ship may be heading for the metaphorical rocks unless a buyer can be found.除非可以找到買家，否則這條船也許就像朝著巖石撞過去一樣下場悲慘。
英英詞典釋義
Adjective
1. expressing one thing in terms normally denoting another;