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...利维原来说的是一种比喻。The ship may be heading for the metaphorical rocks unless a buyer can be found.除非可以找到买家，否则这条船也许就像朝着岩石撞过去一样下场悲惨。
英汉词典释义
adv.
比喻地,隐喻地
It is context and convention that determine whether a term will be interpreted literally or metaphorically.对一个词的理解是按字面意思还是隐喻的意思要视乎上下文和习惯。