Mental and gestural simulation of manner-in-verb-encoded, no-manner-encoded, and manner-in-adverb-encoded constructional patterns

We conducted two studies to examine gestures (iconic/metaphoric, pointing, beat) that co-occurred with three types of constructional patterns (manner-in-verb-encoded, no-manner-encoded, manner-in-adverb-encoded). In Study 1, we analyzed gestures produced by speakers in a set of YouTube videos. In Study 2, we analyzed gestures produced by a group of participants in re-telling short stories. Results of both studies showed that when manner of a motion is encoded in the main part of the verb, the probability of using an iconic/metaphoric gesture with the construction is higher than when manner is encoded in a manner adverb that is detached from the main part of the verb. Based on these results, it is suggested that locus of manner expression affects gestures that co-occur with constructions used to encode manner. This supports the idea that linguistic framing of semantic features in a motion event (e.g., manner) affects the process of mentally simulating that motion.