Metaphor and the theorg of relerance

This paper approaches metaphor from the perspective of the relevance theory of communication.For this purpose the thesis first introduces a few essential concepts of relevance theory,such as the inferential nature of communication,optimal relevance and the like.Then,it deals with the pragmatic roles of the notion of metaphor': metaphor as a descriptive use of language,resemblances as guides to relevance between tenor and vehicle,interpretation of metaphor in context,and so on.It holds that this study will help to better our understanding of the nature of metaphor,and thus increase the likelihood of success in our communication.