Study on the Cognitive Mechanism of Medical English Metaphor and Its Adaptability in Cross-Cultural Communication

Abstract

This study examines the cognitive mechanisms underlying the use of metaphors in medical English, emphasizing their crucial role in both conceptual development and precise linguistic expression. Metaphors serve not merely as rhetorical devices but as cognitive tools that structure complex medical concepts, facilitate reasoning, and enhance memorability. The research explores how these metaphors adapt across different cultural and linguistic contexts, highlighting the influence of cultural background, prior knowledge, and linguistic norms on metaphor comprehension and usage. Through detailed analysis of representative examples, it investigates patterns of semantic mapping, conceptual framing, and cross-linguistic equivalence, revealing how cultural nuances can both facilitate and hinder effective communication. The study further identifies common challenges in translating and conveying medical metaphors to audiences with diverse cultural frameworks, proposing targeted adaptation strategies to enhance clarity, retention, and engagement. By integrating theoretical perspectives from cognitive linguistics with practical applications in medical communication, this research provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the interplay between metaphorical thinking, language, and culture, ultimately offering valuable guidance for promoting effective cross-cultural knowledge transfer and improving professional communication in global healthcare contexts.