The view that we comprehend figurative language by first identifying the literal meaning and then inferring the intended meaning is found in the _____ theory.
A) conceptual metaphor
B) class-inclusion
C) pragmatic
D) instantiation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The view that we understand figurative language through our knowledge of social conventions, context, and speaker's intent is the basis of the pragmatic theory. This theory posits that we do not solely rely on the literal meaning of words, but rather on our understanding of how language functions in social communication. Choice A refers to the Conceptual Metaphor Theory, which suggests that abstract concepts are understood through concrete and familiar experiences. Choice B refers to the Class-Inclusion Theory, which posits that categorical relationships between words help us understand meaning. Choice D refers to the Instantiation Theory which proposes that we understand concepts through specific examples that we have experienced.

The View That We Comprehend Figurative Language by First Identifying