Figurative Language in Science Popularisation:Similes as an Explanatory Strategy in TED Talks.

Saved in:

Bibliographic Details
Title:	Figurative Language in Science Popularisation:Similes as an Explanatory Strategy in TED Talks.
Authors:	DI CARLO, GIUSEPPINA SCOTTO¹ gpsdc_83@yahoo.it
Source:	3L: Southeast Asian Journal of English Language Studies. 2014, Vol. 20 Issue 3, p1-15. 15p.
Subject Terms:	*Comparative grammar, Simile, TED Conference, Language & science, Explanation (Linguistics)
Abstract:	This paper investigates the use of figurative language as one of the main features of TED (Technology, Entertainment, and Design) Talks,a new science popularising genre. Drawing upon Wikberg's (2008) similes classification,which analyses the patternsas ADJ/ADV as, is like N, is like V-ing N, and V like N,the paper examines the use of similes as an explanatory strategy for knowledge dissemination. Focussing on a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the TED talks held between 2006 and 2012,the study shows how TEDsters use similes to compare complex scientific concepts to everyday life experiences;to breach the expert/non expert barrier so that non-experts can participate in the scientific findings;and to look at science as ideas to be discussed rather than information to be passively received. The study also reveals that rather than focussing on culture-bound similes, these audience-oriented talks tend to avoid local cultural references that would not be understood abroad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
	Copyright of 3L: Southeast Asian Journal of English Language Studies is the property of 3L: Language, Linguistics, Literature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Database:	Education Research Complete

Description
Abstract:	This paper investigates the use of figurative language as one of the main features of TED (Technology, Entertainment, and Design) Talks,a new science popularising genre. Drawing upon Wikberg's (2008) similes classification,which analyses the patternsas ADJ/ADV as, is like N, is like V-ing N, and V like N,the paper examines the use of similes as an explanatory strategy for knowledge dissemination. Focussing on a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the TED talks held between 2006 and 2012,the study shows how TEDsters use similes to compare complex scientific concepts to everyday life experiences;to breach the expert/non expert barrier so that non-experts can participate in the scientific findings;and to look at science as ideas to be discussed rather than information to be passively received. The study also reveals that rather than focussing on culture-bound similes, these audience-oriented talks tend to avoid local cultural references that would not be understood abroad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	01285157
DOI:	10.17576/3L-2014-2003-01