隐喻的转换生成语法解释

A Transformational generative Interpretation of Metaphor,

转换生成语法试图用语义句法特征转移理论对词汇的隐喻化过程作出合理的解释。根据这一理论 ,在一定的语境中 ,短语的语义和句法特征在深层结构中可以从一个短语转移到另一个短语上去。这时 ,被转移的特征是主要的 ,而短语原来的特征则暂退其后。隐喻意义只是暂时的 ,一旦离开了特定语境便不复存在。但语义句法特征转移理论中的某些问题 ,如把隐喻作为语言异体。

Transformational generative grammar attempts to provide a plausible interpretation of the lexical metaphor formation on the basis of the semantic syntactic transfer theory. According to it, the semantic and syntactic features of a phrase can be transferred to another phrase at Deep Structure in a given context. In such a case, the transferred feature becomes the most prominent whereas the original feature of the phrase becomes secondary. The metaphorical meaning is only temporary, subject to suspension if deprived of the appropriate context. However, some aspects of the semantic-syntatic transfer theory remain obscure, such as its treatment of metaphor as linguistic variants and the cluster of semantic features.