USE OF METAPHORS IN MEDICAL DISCOURSE IN DOCTOR-PATIENT INTERACTION
USE OF METAPHORS IN MEDICAL DISCOURSE IN DOCTOR-PATIENT INTERACTION

Summary/Abstract: Medical discourse plays an essential role in communication between healthcare professionals and patients. One of the most significant linguistic features of medical discourse is the use of metaphors, which help convey complex medical concepts in a more comprehensible way. Metaphors serve as cognitive tools that simplify technical information, making it accessible to patients with varying levels of medical knowledge. For example, metaphors such as "fighting cancer" or "the body as a machine" are commonly used to explain the nature of diseases and treatment processes. While metaphors can enhance understanding and provide emotional support, they can also introduce limitations, such as oversimplification or unintended stress, especially when used inappropriately. This paper explores the role of metaphors in medical discourse, examining their benefits and also the potential risks. It highlights how metaphors can both facilitate and hinder effective communication in medical settings, with implications for patient care and doctor-patient relationships. The paper emphasizes the importance of choosing appropriate metaphors that align with patients’ cultural and emotional contexts, ensuring that communication is characterized by clarity and empathy.

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