THE COGNITIVE PROCESSING OF FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE IN SPEECH
Keywords:
figurative language, psycholinguistics, cognitive processing, metaphor, idioms, speech comprehensionAbstract
This research explores the cognitive mechanisms involved in the processing of figurative language within spoken communication from a psycholinguistic viewpoint. Figurative language—encompassing metaphors, idioms, and similes—serves a vital function in daily interactions by enhancing meaning and expressiveness. Nevertheless, comprehending such language involves intricate cognitive processes that extend beyond straightforward interpretation. The current investigation analyzes how individuals interpret figurative phrases in comparison to literal statements, focusing on comprehension speed, accuracy, and perceived challenge. A small-scale experimental study was conducted with university students. Results reveal that processing figurative language necessitates greater cognitive investment but results in more profound semantic understanding and improved memory retention. This research adds to the ongoing discourse regarding the relationship between language, cognition, and the construction of meaning.
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