“The drawer is still closed”: Simulating past and future actions when processing sentences that describe a state

In two experiments using the action–sentence–compatibility paradigm we investigated the simulation processes that readers undertake when processing state descriptions with adjectives (e.g., Die Schublade ist offen/zu. [The drawer is open/shut]) or adjectival passives (e.g., Die Schublade ist geöffnet/geschlossen. [The drawer is opened/closed]). In Experiment 1 we did not find evidence for action simulation, not even in sentences with adjectival passives. The results were different in Experiment 2, where the temporal particle noch (still/yet) was inserted into the sentences (e.g., The drawer is still closed). Under these circumstances readers mentally simulated the action that brought about the current state for sentences with adjectival passives, but the action that would change the current state for sentences with adjectives. Thus, comprehenders are in principle sensitive to the subtle differences between adjectives and adjectival passives but highlighting the temporal dimension of the described states of affairs seems a necessary precondition for obtaining evidence for action simulation with sentences that describe a state. We discuss implications for future studies employing neuro-psychological methods.