The Development of Metaphor, Metonymy and Word Meaning

Based on the newly emergent linguistic theory - cognitive linguistics, this paper researches on metaphor and metonymy and the role they play in the development of word meaning. Firstly, the two terms, metaphor and metonymy, along with their differences and relationship, are introduced. This paper points out that metaphor and metonymy are important means of human cognition and thought. Secondly, the development of word meaning and the relationship between the meanings of the same word are determined by metaphor and metonymy to a great extent. Finally, this paper discusses the enlightenment of the research for foreign language teaching and learning.