Conceptual metonymy and its relationship with conceptual metaphor: A research gap in need of clarification

Abstract

This article addresses a neglected aspect in Vietnamese linguistics—the interaction between conceptual metaphor and conceptual metonymy, resulting in what can be termed metaphor-metonymy complexes. The study identifies three key forms of this interaction: metaphors originating from metonymies, metonymies embedded within metaphors, and metonymies serving as the basis of metaphors. Furthermore, the paper offers an initial analysis of several metaphor-metonymy complex expressions in the Vietnamese language, highlighting their significance and contribution to a deeper understanding of cognitive mechanisms in language.