There are many expressions commonly used in English to express similarity.
There is no magic rule to help you remember them. You just have to learn them. Sorry!
Take a look at the examples below.
To have a face like thunder.
If someone has a face like thunder, they are extremely unhappy about something. This facial expression displays anger and hostility.
E.g. He didn’t say anything, but I could tell he was angry about the situation as he had a face like thunder.
To be shaking like a leaf.
If someone is shaking like a leaf, they are trembling because they are very frightened or nervous about something. It can be used figuratively.
E.g. I was shaking like a leaf as I went into the job interview. I was so nervous because I really wanted to get the job!
Have fun learning English!
Louise