Core Pattern

[learning:: Etymology reveals how abstract concepts are grounded in physical/embodied metaphors, exposing historical cognitive frames that continue to shape our thinking today.]

Evidence & Examples

Common etymological patterns showing embodied metaphors in abstract concepts:

• “understand” (stand under) → knowledge as physical structure
• “consider” (with stars) → thinking as celestial observation
• “curriculum” (racing chariot) → learning as competition

This pattern appears strongest in:

• Abstract concept words (thinking, learning, knowing)
• Emotional/mental state descriptions
• Process/methodology terms

Implications & Applications

• Etymological awareness can help identify & counteract cognitive biases by making implicit frames explicit
• These inherited frames can limit or enable our thinking in ways we don’t consciously recognize
• The metaphors often persist even when we’ve lost conscious connection to the original meaning

Connections