metaphorical mappings

Metaphorical mappings are mental connections we make between two different concepts, allowing us to understand one in terms of the other. For example, when we say "time is money," we're mapping the qualities of money—such as being limited and valuable—to time. These mappings help us understand complex or abstract ideas by relating them to more familiar experiences. Essentially, they form a bridge in our mind, enabling us to interpret new or difficult ideas through the lens of what we already know. This process shapes much of language, thought, and communication.