Linguistic functions of English visual adjectives in literary texts: a cognitive-stylistic analysis

Abstract

This paper explores the linguistic functions of English visual adjectives (e.g., dark, bright, clear, golden) in literary texts from a cognitive-stylistic perspective. Drawing on conceptual metaphor theory, embodied-cognitive linguistics, and foregrounding theory, it argues that visual adjectives not only denote visual properties but also systematically map onto non-visual domains such as emotion, evaluation, and cognition. Through analysis of authentic literary examples, the study identifies three major functions: (1) ideational – constructing imagery and scene; (2) interpersonal – conveying emotional valence and evaluation; (3) stylistic – achieving foregrounding effects via deviation or over-regularity. The findings suggest that visual adjectives serve as crucial bridges between perception and meaning-making in literary narrative.