Metaphors we live by

Dilnar

"Metaphors We Live By" by George Lakoff and Mark Johnson revolutionized the study of metaphors, revealing their pervasiveness in our language and thought. The first two chapters lay a solid foundation for understanding the crucial role of metaphors in our daily lives.​
In Chapter 1, the authors introduce the idea that our ordinary conceptual system, in terms of which we both think and act, is fundamentally metaphorical in nature. They point out that metaphors are not just figures of speech but are deeply embedded in how we perceive the world. For example, we often use the metaphor "ARGUMENT IS WAR" in our language. Phrases like "He attacked my argument," "His criticisms were right on target," and "I demolished his argument" are common expressions. This metaphor affects not only how we talk about arguments but also how we conduct them. We approach arguments with the mindset of a battle, trying to win and defeat our opponents.​
Chapter 2, delves into the origin of these metaphors. The authors explain that metaphors are grounded in our physical and cultural experiences. Take the metaphor "MORE IS UP; LESS IS DOWN," for instance. We say "Prices are high" or "The number of unemployed is down." This metaphor is based on our bodily experiences, such as when we add more objects to a pile, the pile gets higher. Cultural factors also play a role. In a society where success is highly valued, the metaphor "SUCCESS IS UP; FAILURE IS DOWN" emerges, like "He's at the top of his career" or "She's fallen from grace."​
Overall, the first two chapters of "Metaphors We Live By" highlight that metaphors are not just ornamental language devices. They are essential tools that shape our thoughts, influence our actions, and are closely tied to our physical and cultural existence. By understanding this, we can gain deeper insights into how we make sense of the world around us.​