What does the expression "He is a shining star" illustrate?

The expression "He is a shining star" illustrates a metaphor. This figurative language compares a person to a "shining star" to convey qualities such as brilliance, talent, or a noteworthy presence. Unlike a simile, which would use words like "like" or "as" to make a comparison, a metaphor directly states that one thing is another, creating a more immediate and impactful connection.

In this case, saying someone is a "shining star" implies that they excel in some capacity or stand out in a significant way, much like how a star shines brightly in the sky. This vivid imagery helps to provide a deeper understanding of the person's qualities.

The other options do not fit this expression: a simile would have required a comparison using "like" or "as"; an analogy would typically involve a more extensive comparison between two different things to illustrate a point; and hyperbole would exaggerate characteristics for emphasis rather than make a direct comparison.