Abstract: This article is dedicated to the study of metaphorical discourse based on the theory of the five elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) texts. The subject of this research is the metaphorical discourse based on the theory of the five elements in TCM classics. TCM theories are based on bodily experience, and they employ the metaphorical discourse of "the ability to find an example close (to oneself)" to explain concepts, using what a person knows to explain what they do not know. The aim of this article is to explore the metaphorical cognitive system of the five elements in the theory of five elements as a primary source, to understand how the ancients, through knowledge of the five elements, utilized the natural characteristics of the five elements as metaphors for interpreting the physiological features of the human body, the functions of internal organs, pathological phenomena, diagnosis and treatment, and other TCM concepts. From the perspective of research methodology, this work employs a literature study method—extensive collection of relevant information and detailed interpretation of typical metaphorical expressions—as well as a linguistic analysis method—semantic analysis of key terms and expressions to study their semantic connotations and metaphorical connections. The scientific novelty is reflected in the in-depth study of metaphorical discourse in Traditional Chinese Medicine based on the theory of the five elements, i.e., in the profound examination of the theoretical significance of TCM from the perspective of cognitive linguistics, which opens an innovative and scientific path for research. TCM is a treasure of national Chinese culture, and the theory of the five elements is one of its foundations. For a long time, the application of the theory of the five elements in TCM practice has been regarded as a unique cultural phenomenon, but this study employs a unique method based on an advanced perspective at the intersection of linguistics, cognitive science, and TCM. As a result of deep analysis, it is revealed that the theory of the five elements has constructed a rich and intricate metaphorical network within the discursive system of TCM.

Abstract: This article is devoted to the study of the characteristics of metaphorical language and its translation in the texts of traditional Chinese medicine. The research subject of this article is metaphorical language in TCM texts. The characteristics of the metaphorical language of TCM texts determine that translation should focus on cross-cultural communication and meaning interpretation. The purpose of the study is to investigate, learn how to accurately decipher metaphorical language and convey the connotation of these metaphorical expressions, so as to promote the effective dissemination of TCM culture in intercultural communication. And also - to reduce misunderstandings caused by cultural and linguistic differences, to improve the quality and accuracy of translations of TCM texts, to build a better linguistic bridge for TCM to the world. In terms of research methodology, this paper uses the method of literature study - extensive collection of relevant information and detailed interpretation of typical metaphorical expressions, as well as the method of comparative analysis - comparing the differences in the use of metaphorical language in different literatures. Scientific novelty is reflected in the in-depth interpretation and translation of TCM metaphors. Through an in-depth study of TCM theories and practices, the scientific principles underlying metaphors are revealed and presented to readers in a clearer and more accurate way. At the same time, innovative translation methods such as the method of literal translation with commentary, the free translation method, etc., allow readers to better understand the unique meaning of TCM metaphors. Through in-depth analysis, it is found that metaphorical language has important characteristics such as imagery, cultural relevance and polysemy, and is an important cognitive approach and tool in Chinese medicine and at the same time not only embodies a special description of physiological phenomena, but also a unique cognitive marker of alternative psychophysiological communication.