Definition
A containment metaphor is an ontological metaphor in which some concept is represented as:
- having an inside and outside, and
- capable of holding something else.
Examples
(English)
I’ve had a full life.
Life is empty for him.
Her life is crammed with activities.
Get the most out of life.
Sources 1
- Lakoff, G. and Johnson 1980, 29–30, 51