Final answer:
When someone says "my mind went blank," they are employing a metaphor, which is a form of figurative language comparing one's temporarily forgetful or unfocused mind to a blank space, suggesting they can't remember or think of anything at the moment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When someone says, "my mind went blank," they are using a type of figurative language known as a metaphor. This is not a literal statement but a figurative one to suggest that they cannot think of anything or that they have forgotten what they were going to say or do. It paints a mental image of a blank space where there should be thoughts or knowledge. The expression is a direct comparison between one's mind, which is full of thoughts, ideas, and memories, to a blank space, which has nothing on it, suggesting a temporary lapse in the ability to recall or think.
Other common expressions that feature figurative language related to the mind include phrases like "Great minds think alike" or "It is a matter of mind over matter." These phrases are not meant to be taken literally but are used to convey particular meanings or effects. Therefore, understanding and identifying metaphors and other forms of figurative language enhance our communication and deepen the impact of our expressions.