word

Conceptual Metaphor

con-SEP-choo-ul MET-uh-for

/kənˈsɛptʃuəl ˈmɛtəfɔːr/

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Syllable breakdown

conceptualmetaphor

Dictionary meaning

A cognitive mechanism in which one conceptual domain (the target) is understood in terms of another (the source); e.g., ARGUMENT IS WAR, TIME IS MONEY. Proposed by Lakoff and Johnson (1980).

Examples

The conceptual metaphor LIFE IS A JOURNEY shapes how we talk about personal goals and progress.

Synonyms: root metaphor, structural metaphor

Pronunciation tips

Stress falls on 'CEP' and 'MET'.

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