The Lexeme Fuse and its Phraseological and Metaphorical Projections

The article examines the metaphorical projections of the lexeme fuse and the phrases in which it functions as a component. Specifically, it analyses the expressions someone’s fuses blew and fuses blew in terms of their formal structure, variation, paradigms, semantics, origin and other relevant characteristics. The study rejects the hypothesis that the two units share a common origin and instead proposes that they have undergone distinct processes of phraseologisation, resulting in different internal forms. It is concluded that the identical formal structure and divergent semantics of the expressions exemplify phraseological homonymy. Additionally, the article analyses the conventional metaphorical projections of the lexeme fuse in terms of their stylistic characteristics, semantics, frequency and viability, while also looking for potential connections with the aforementioned expressions. The capacity of fuse to function as a novel metaphor and to contribute to other types of tropes, such as similes, is emphasised. Furthermore, the study examines the dynamics of its various metaphorical projections, noting the increasing frequency and prominence of some and the decline of others. Particular attention is given to the innovative uses of phrases, where techniques and devices characteristic of poetic language are employed. The analysis demonstrates their adaptability across a broad range of discursive contexts, including poetry, journalistic texts and online forum discussions.