The Conceptual Metaphor of Governance in The Governance of China

Conceptual metaphor theory emphasizes the fact that metaphor is essentially a basic way of thinking and that it has the function of constructing concepts and can be powerfully persuasive. This is why political discourse often uses conceptual metaphors to make important political ideas more accessible and acceptable to the general public, which in turn can lead to real action. Citing examples from The Governance of China, this article focuses on the conceptual metaphors of governance, analyses the conceptual metaphors surrounding “road confidence” and “great struggle”, and discusses the English translation of the metaphors.