Abstract: The study reviewed the achievement of theoretical and practical study on time metaphor in the past decades. With the analysis of the conceptual dimensions of time metaphor representation, it summed up that the archetype of time metaphor is space-time metaphor. The structural characteristics of space-time metaphor according to its moving methods, directions and shapes are discussed. After the analysis and research of the psychological mechanism of space-time metaphor and the interrelation of space, time schemas in the metaphorical mapping, the Weak Metaphorical Structuring View beat other theoretical hypothesis and won more support theoretically and practically. Current time metaphor study mainly focuses on the semantic analysis and cross-culture study, hence the future study may emphasize on the more microcosmic cognitive process of time metaphor and the interaction between the process and personality

Key words: time metaphor, mapping, space-time metaphor