The article examines the functioning of comparative constructions in vario­us areas of use of the modern Russian language. It is noted that there are objects of mass culture in which comparisons are rarely used: some literary texts and some popular songs. In most cases (in fiction, song lyrics, scientific speech, the media, etc.), compara­tive constructions act as popular linguistic units that perform various functions. Comparisons serve for expression and figurativeness, help speakers convey feelings and attitudes, evaluate and joke. Their functioning in the modern Russian language illustrates its active and positive development, demonstrates the desire of speakers to build various associations using comparative constructions, the objects (images) of which help to more accurately, vividly, and expressively characterize reality.