Shape Imagery in Technical Terminology

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jan 1986

Shape Imagery in Technical Terminology

John S. Harris Brigham Young University

Abstract

The concept of shape is commonly conveyed in scientific and technical fields by reference to pre-existing images presumably familiar to both writer and reader. Such images are drawn from a wide variety of sources which include geometrical images, shape images from nature and simple technology, and from familiar arbitrary forms such as the alphabet. Shape images in language continue to be invented, and provide both analogs for expression and analogs for thought. Once a term is established, it ceases to function as an analog. Examination of shape analogs serves as a useful microcosm of language development. Shape imagery is a facet of language that remains quite impervious to computer analysis and translation.

Journal: Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published: 1986-01-01
DOI: 10.2190/2rep-34dh-ujh1-5mep
Open Access: Closed
Topics: writing across the curriculum multimodality

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (2)

Harris (2001)

Global Thinking, or the Utility of Trivia

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Harris (1998)

Technical Shibboleths

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

Cites in this index (1)

Harris (1984)

The Naming of Parts: An Examination of the Origins of Technical and Scientific …

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

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