A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unrelated things to help explain a concept. The term 'METAPHORICAL 'sticking' place' refers to a situation where someone or something is stuck in a certain place, either figuratively or literally. The crossword solution for this term is CRAW, which is a four-letter word meaning a small, enclosed space. This could refer to a person being stuck in a tight spot, or a situation where they are unable to move forward.