Glossary of Linguistic Terms

Balance Schema

Definition: 

A balance schema is a force schema that:

  • provides an understanding of physical or metaphorical counteracting forces
  • is based on a prototypical schema consisting of countervailing forces acting on a target that is a:

    • point
    • line
    • plane
  • is based on bodily experience, such as maintaining

    • erect posture
    • normal bodily states, such as temperature
  • may be applied metaphorically to provide an understanding of other experiences, such as balance of the visual field with respect to art

Source: 
74–75, 80, 85