Metaphors are like lenses: Electrophysiological correlates of novel meaning processing in bilingualism

Aims and objectives: The study provides new insights into how bilingual speakers process semantically complex novel meanings in their native (L1) non-native language (L2). Methodology: employs an EEG method with a semantic decision task to nominal metaphors, similes, as well literal anomalous sentences presented participants’ L1 L2. Data analysis: In total, 29 of Polish who were highly proficient English (L2) took part the study. collected signal was analyzed terms event-related potential analysis. statistical analyses based on behavioral data (reaction times accuracy rates) mean amplitudes for four conditions two languages within N400 LPC time windows. Findings: results revealed effect utterance type modulated by nativeness, where brainwaves sentences, similes converged L2, while graded observed from sentences. contrast, late window, more pronounced sustained negativity metaphors than both languages, thus indicating that meaning integration mechanisms might be similar automaticity L2 when are Altogether, present point taxing involved lexico-semantic access L1, yet such increased effort seems resolved phase. Originality: findings bilinguals construct unfamiliar show cognitive engaged this nativeness. Significance: provide crucial implications further research processing human creativity.