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.
Like cat and dog.
If two people argue or fight like cat and dog it means they argue frequently but are still very fond of each other.
E.g. Even though they fight like cat and dog they’re still together after more than 20 years.
Like death warmed up.
If someone looks like death warmed up it means they look ill or very tired.
E.g. My supervisor sent me home from work today. He said I looked like death warmed up.
Have fun learning English!
Louise