Conceptual Metaphor Theory is a framework in cognitive linguistics that suggests people understand abstract concepts through metaphorical mappings from more concrete experiences. For example, we often describe time as if it were money, saying phrases like "spending time" or "saving time." This theory highlights how our everyday language reflects deeper cognitive processes that shape our understanding of the world. The theory was popularized by linguists like George Lakoff and Mark Johnson in their book "Metaphors We Live By." They argue that metaphors are not just linguistic expressions but fundamental to human thought, influencing how we perceive and interact with various aspects of life, including emotions, relationships, and society.