Glossary of Linguistic Terms

Entity Metaphor

Definition: 

An entity metaphor is an ontological metaphor in which an abstraction is represented as a concrete physical object.

Examples: 

(English)

In the following sentences, the mind is represented as a machine or a brittle object:

  • We're still trying to grind out the solution to this equation.
  • My mind just isn’t operating today.
  • Her ego is very fragile.
  • You have to handle him with care since his wife’s death.
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