Nonviolent speech

Abstract

The contemporary English language abounds with expressions of violence (as do most other languages). People constantly call upon a violent metaphor when they want to make a salient point. For example, an argument is to be countered by “shooting it down.” An American baseball team rallies behind the bugle call to “charge.” And a World Gup soccer match that ends in a tie has to be decided by a “shoot‐out.” I shall suggest three reasons why people are unconsciously attracted to the use of violent terms in their speech, and then explain how this helps to perpetuate a culture of violence, which in turn affects people's behavior.