Dead metaphor is a figurative expression defined as when metaphor becomes useless because of overuse. They lost their imaginative meaning.
For example: Lifeless as a stone,diamonds in the rough.
Another example found in literature is In Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth,” the phrase “be-all and end-all” is used. Originally, it referred to something that was both the ultimate goal and the final outcome. However, it’s now commonly used to describe something considered essential or paramount, with its original meaning faded into a dead metaphor.
| Synonyms | Cliché | Frozen metaphor | Stock phrase |
| Antonyms | Fresh metaphor | Creative comparison | Striking analogy |
Dead metaphors arise from the evolution of language, where once-vivid figurative expressions lose their metaphorical meaning over time, becoming conventional phrases. Dead metaphor is a figure of speech that has lost their imaginative meaning because of overuse. What is a simple metaphor? Simple metaphor is only when we compare two unlike things. So, for creating your own dead metaphor, follow these 5 steps!
- Craft a vivid metaphor.
- Use it consistently.
- Share it widely.
- Let others adopt it.
- Watch it become conventional.
Dead Metaphor is also used in songs where they can add depth and familiarity to lyrics. For example, phrases like “broken heart,” “stormy relationship,” or “bitter end” are dead metaphors that have been used extensively in songwriting to express emotions and experiences.
The term “dead metaphor” has become meaningless as empirical research reveals that metaphors in everyday language can be alive and meaningful, challenging the old theory of language and metaphor. (“Lakoff, G. (1987). The Death of Dead Metaphor. Metaphor and Symbol, 2, 143-147.”) How? I am telling you in this Article.
What is Dead Metaphor?
A dead metaphor is a figure of speech that has lost its original metaphorical meaning over time, becoming a conventional phrase. This linguistic evolution occurs due to repeated usage, transforming clear imagery into ordinary language. As language evolves, dead metaphors show how cultural shifts impact communication, underlining the organic nature of language development..
What are the Examples of Dead Metaphors:
Dead metaphors are linguistic expressions that are now used purely in a literal sense. Examples include:
- “Foot of the mountain” – originally metaphorical, now literal.
- “Window of opportunity” – once figurative, now taken literally.
- “Head of the class” – formerly metaphorical, now literal.
- “Mouth of a river” – initially metaphorical, now used literally.
- “Heart of the matter” – previously figurative, now understood literally.
What are the Examples of Dead Metaphors in Literature?
Some examples from literary works include:
- Shakespeare’s “All the world’s a stage” from “As You Like It” – the metaphor of life as a stage is now a dead metaphor, commonly understood in a literal sense.
- Emily Dickinson’s “Hope is the thing with feathers” – the metaphor of hope as a bird has become so entrenched in language that it’s now often taken literally.
- George Orwell’s “Big Brother is watching you” from “1984” – the metaphorical concept of government surveillance has become a literal reality, rendering the metaphor “dead” in its original sense.
- Charles Dickens’ “It’s raining cats and dogs” – what was once a colorful metaphor for heavy rain is now used purely literally in everyday language.
- John Donne’s “No man is an island” – the metaphorical comparison of individuals to islands has lost its figurative impact and is often understood literally.
What are the Synonyms and Antonyms of Dead Metaphor?
| Synonyms | Antonyms |
| Trite phrase | Original figure of speech |
| Overused phrase | Dynamic comparison |
| Hackneyed expression | Novel figure of speech |
| Cliché | Creative analogy |
Where does Mixed Metaphor come from?:
Dead metaphors originate from the evolution of language over time. As concepts become ingrained in society, their figurative meanings can fade, rendering them dead metaphors. For instance, phrases like “raining cats and dogs” or “bitten by the bug” once carried vivid imagery, but through frequent use, their literal origins are obscured.
According to “The Oxford Handbook of Cognitive Linguistics” by Dirk Geeraerts (2007), dead metaphors arise when linguistic expressions lose their original figurative associations due to habitual usage. These phrases transition from evoking vivid imagery to become stylized parts of language.
Such transformations reflect the dynamic nature of language. As speakers repeatedly use certain expressions, their original metaphorical meanings may eat away, leading to dead metaphors. This phenomenon underscores language’s adaptability and its capacity to shape and be shaped by cultural and societal contexts.
How Do Metaphor And Dead Metaphor Differ?
| Dead metaphor | Metaphor |
| A dead metaphor is an expression that means a metaphor has become useless due to overuse. They lost their figurative meaning. | Metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using “like” or “as.” They used to create imagery and convey complex ideas. |
Difference between Mixed Metaphor and Implied Metaphor?
| Dead Metaphor | Implied Metaphor |
| Dead metaphor is when you overuse it to lose the figurative or imaginative meaning. | An implied metaphor is a metaphor where the comparison is not explicitly stated but is implied through the context. |
Difference between Mixed Metaphor and Sustained Metaphor?
| Dead metaphor | Mixed Metaphor |
| Dead metaphor lost the figurative or imaginative meaning because of overuse. | Mixed metaphor is the combination of two or more incompatible metaphors within a single statement or sentence. |
How to create your own dead metaphor?
- To Create your own dead metaphor is the first step, where you create a compelling comparison between two things, use imagery to evoke understanding.
- Consistency is key; once you’ve developed your metaphor, use it repeatedly across various contexts to increase its association and meaning.
- Share your metaphor with all, spreading it through communication channels and platforms to increase its exposure and adoption.
- Encourage others to adopt your metaphor and integrate it into their own language and communication.
- Observe as your metaphor gains grip and acceptance, eventually becoming a conventional part of language and thought.
How are dead metaphors used in songs?
Dead metaphors in songs used as familiar expressions that once carried a rich meaning but now are used frequently without their original imagery. They add depth and familiarity to lyrics, evoking shared experiences and emotions.
How are dead metaphors used in writing?
Dead metaphors are used as familiar expressions, improving writing with simplicity and clarity, but lacking the overcoming of fresh imagery.
Why would an author use a dead metaphor?
Authors use dead metaphors to convey familiar ideas in a fresh light, connecting readers to shared experiences while offering a new perspective.
How dead Metaphor is used in poems?
In poems, dead metaphors breathe new life into language, infusing ordinary words with deeper meaning. Take, for instance, Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken.” Here, the diverging roads symbolize life choices, a metaphor so ingrained in our minds that it’s become a part of everyday speech. Through this metaphor, Frost explores the complexities of decision-making and the paths we choose.
What is the Death of Dead Metaphor?
In George Lakoff’s discussion, the concept of “dead metaphor” evolves with linguistic understanding. Originally viewed as once-poetic expressions now mundane, empirical study reveals diverse phenomena, including those integral to everyday thought. For example, “pedigree” originates from “pie de grue,” meaning “foot of a crane,” illustrating a simple one-to-one mapping from conventional images. “G. Lakoff. “The Death of Dead Metaphor.” Metaphor and Symbol, 2 (1987): 143-147.”