The study is also expected to form the basis of further research into teaching vocabulary to learners of the two languages. Everyday language is rich with metaphors, says principal investigator Dr Andrew Goatly. Money, for example, is often conceptualised metaphorically as fluid. Expressions include liquid and frozen assets and the injection of funds and solvency. Current accounts are topped up and ailing companies haemorrhage funds.
Metaphors affect the way people think and express their culture.
While some may be universal and found in both English and Chinese, others are culturally specific.