When Metaphors Function as Schemas: Some Cognitive Effects of Conceptual Metaphors

The nature of metaphor, the processes of metaphor comprehension, and the functions of metaphor are identified as three distinct issues for metaphor research. It is suggested that the strengths and weaknesses of current theories of metaphor are dependent on the type of metaphor being examined, with each theory providing a plausible account for some kinds of metaphors but not for others. Recent research on the possible functions of metaphor is discussed. In particular, evidence that metaphors function as schemas is reviewed, including experimental evidence that metaphor-based schemas can affect the structure of readers' text representations.