What is are metaphors and why are they used?

The use of language to refer to something other than what it was originally applied to or what it ‘literally’ means  in order to make a connection between the two things, or suggest a resemblance

We recognise metaphors as exaggerations and non-literal and interpret them accordingly – they are a way of communicating an image of an object or idea in a fabricated way

Unless we identify and agree what the literally meaning of a word or expression is, we cannot identify and agree what is metaphorical

Metaphor is a basic process in the formation of words and word meanings  that can be persuasive

Many multi-sense words are metaphorical

Idioms and proverbs (sayings) are metaphorical in origin

Metaphors can be used to clarify, describe, express, evaluate and entertain

Creative metaphors are those which a writer/speaker constructs to express a particular idea or feeling in a particular context which leaves it open for the interpretation of the reader and how they deconstruct it

Most metaphorical mappings are transmitted through familiar commonly occurring linguistic expressions in which there is connection between an idea and a physical entity e.g. the hoover grazed over the carpet


1 year ago

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