Where in the brain is nonliteral language? A coordinate-based meta-analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging studies

► Coordinate-based meta-analysis of nonliteral language fMRI studies. ► Analysis includes research on metaphors, metonymy, idioms and irony. ► A predominantly left lateralised fronto-temporal network appears crucial. ► The right hemisphere plays a smaller, but significant role for nonliteral stimuli. ► Both hemispheres contribute to processing of novel stimuli.