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 avoid something / someone like the plague.
If you avoid someone or something like the plague, you stay away from the situation / person as much as possible. You make a determined effort to go nowhere near the person or thing.
E.g. He’s terrified of dogs and avoids them like the plague.
To feel like a million dollars / bucks.
If you feel like a million dollars, you feel very attractive, well-dressed and/or healthy.
E.g. She got a new hairstyle and some new clothes and felt like a million dollars. Her new look gave her lots of confidence.
Have fun learning English!
Louise