THE COGNITIVE PROCESSING OF FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE IN SPEECH

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.本研究从心理语言学视角，探讨口语交际中比喻性语言（figurative language）加工所涉及的认知机制。比喻性语言涵盖隐喻（metaphors）、习语（idioms）与明喻（similes），通过强化语义表达与感染力，在日常交际中发挥着至关重要的作用。然而，理解此类语言需经历超越字面解读的复杂认知过程。本研究对比分析了个体对比喻性短语与字面表述的解读过程，重点关注理解速度、准确性以及主观感知的认知难度。本研究针对大学生开展了一项小型实验研究。实验结果表明，加工比喻性语言需要投入更多认知资源，但可带来更深刻的语义理解与更优的记忆保持效果。本研究进一步丰富了关于语言、认知与意义构建之间关系的现有学术讨论。