metaphorical extension
[mə-ˈta-fər-i-kəl ik-ˈsten-shən]
nounpl: metaphorical extensions
extensão metafórica
1. The process of applying a word or concept from its original literal meaning to a new, related meaning through metaphorical reasoning
The metaphorical extension of 'surfing' from riding waves to browsing the internet demonstrates how language evolves.
A extensão metafórica de 'navegar' do contexto marítimo para a internet mostra como a linguagem evolui.
2. A linguistic or semantic phenomenon where a term's meaning is broadened or transferred to express abstract or figurative concepts based on similarity or analogy
The metaphorical extension of 'light' to represent knowledge is common across many cultures.
A extensão metafórica de 'luz' para representar conhecimento é comum em muitas culturas.
3. In cognitive linguistics, the cognitive mechanism by which concrete source domains are mapped onto abstract target domains
Time as money is a classic example of metaphorical extension in English.
Tempo é dinheiro é um exemplo clássico de extensão metafórica em português.
Metaphorical extension is a fundamental concept in cognitive linguistics and semantics, widely studied in both Brazilian and American academic institutions. The term is primarily used in linguistic, philosophical, and cognitive science contexts rather than in everyday conversation. The concept highlights how both English and Portuguese speakers extend concrete meanings to abstract domains, demonstrating universal patterns of human language and cognition.
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