INTRODUCTION
Rationale for the study
English has become one of the most widely spoken languages globally, and in Vietnam, the number of educational institutions teaching English as a primary or mandatory subject continues to rise This growth is fueled by the increasing desire to integrate into the global community, particularly following the open-door policy However, Vietnamese learners often face challenges in mastering English, largely due to the differences between the two languages, especially when it comes to idiomatic expressions English idioms reflect cultural nuances and encompass a country's history, geography, and customs, making them difficult to grasp without an understanding of the cultural context Both English and Vietnamese are rich in idiomatic expressions, highlighting the importance of cultural knowledge in effectively learning English idioms.
English idioms present a unique challenge, even for native speakers, making them a fascinating subject for research My focus is on "An English-Vietnamese Cross-Cultural Study of Idioms With Colors and Its Implications to ELT," as I believe a cultural approach enhances the understanding and application of idioms This research aims to assist Vietnamese learners in using idioms accurately and effectively, highlighting the importance of cultural context in language learning.
This research emphasizes the significance of the English language and the correct use of idioms, particularly those involving colors, in effective communication It aims to assist Vietnamese students in recognizing the importance of mastering color idioms to enhance their proficiency in the four language skills.
Scope of the study
This study focuses on "An English-Vietnamese Cross-Cultural Study of Idioms with Colors and Its Implications for English Language Teaching" among Vietnamese learners of English, while also making a brief comparison with English native speakers It explores the significance of colors and color-related idioms from a cross-cultural perspective Given the diverse backgrounds of Vietnamese learners, including differences in age, purpose, and occupation, the primary emphasis is placed on first-year students at CFL-VNU and a select group of English native speakers.
Objectives of the study
Effective communication is essential for foreign language learners, with a focus on understanding and articulating their viewpoints To achieve this, it is crucial for learners to master not only vocabulary and grammar but also the sound patterns of idioms A strong grasp of idiomatic expressions significantly enhances their ability to communicate effectively.
This study addresses the challenges of using English idioms related to colors, drawing from both personal experiences and observations Its primary goal is to provide valuable suggestions for English learners to prevent communication breakdowns.
1 To provide the theoretical review of English idioms and a specification is given to English idioms with colors
2 To show how well Vietnamese students are exposed to English idioms in general and English idioms with colors in particular, and how they practice, use them in mastering English Also, it points out wrong interpretations that are usually encountered and made by students when using English idioms with colors, at the same time, seeks the sources of such mistakes
3 To supply some suggested implications for teaching and learning method, and some activities and exercises that can be useful for practicing English idioms with colors in teaching and learning process, contributing to improve ability of using English idioms with colors.
Methodology of the study
The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods to ensure the collection of reliable and comprehensive information Quantitative data, consisting of numerical information suitable for statistical analysis, was combined with qualitative data, which includes descriptive, text-based insights gathered from interviews and observations.
The primary methods utilized in this study include analyzing reference materials to gather relevant knowledge and theories Additionally, the research incorporates survey questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and observational techniques to enhance the depth and breadth of the findings.
Idioms represent a complex category of multi-word units that challenge our understanding of grammar and vocabulary, a challenge that remains partially unresolved (Fellbaum et al., 2006:349) While idioms are often perceived as fundamentally distinct from standard language, defining this distinction can be difficult Even among experts in idiomatic expressions, there is a lack of agreement on what qualifies as an idiom due to the diversity within this linguistic category.
An idiom is defined as an institutionalized expression whose meaning differs from the literal meanings of its individual components This definition, however, also encompasses various phraseological structures like collocations, formulaic greetings, and clichés, which, while somewhat idiomatic, do not meet the strict criteria of true idioms Consequently, idiom researchers face the challenge of creating a flexible definition that captures all recognized idioms while effectively excluding non-idiomatic expressions.
Current psycholinguistic theories suggest that idioms function as "long words," with their meanings accessed directly rather than through analysis of their individual parts (Gibbs 1994, 2002) However, when encountering an idiom for the first time, language users must derive its meaning from the individual constituents, typically focusing on the most salient meanings first (Giora 1997, 2002; Peleg & Giora).
The limited success rate of this tactic stems from the challenges in identifying the relevant meanings of polysemous components and the degree to which the idiom is semantically motivated or transparent.
If you look up the word idiom in Webster, you will be given the following definition:
An idiom is an expression whose meaning cannot be easily inferred from the individual words or standard grammatical rules Examples include phrases like "kick the bucket" and "hang one's head," which convey meanings distinct from their literal interpretations Additionally, idioms are not part of larger expressions with similar characteristics, making them unique in language.
This definition seems a bit dry and doesn't really tell anything about the function of idioms in English language
English is abundant in idioms, unique expressions that often challenge conventional logic and grammar The presence of idioms adds significant variety and humor to both spoken and written English, making the language more vibrant and engaging.
2 Cultural characteristics of English idioms:
The richness and diversity of English idioms can largely be attributed to the language's historical evolution Many idiomatic expressions originate from the daily experiences of English speakers across various backgrounds The Bible serves as a primary source for numerous idioms, followed closely by the works of Shakespeare, which are also significant literary contributors Additionally, idioms frequently draw inspiration from fables, myths, and legends, enriching the language further.
Besides, English idioms are created by people in different trades and occupations
Many idioms originate from the experiences of working individuals, such as seamen, hunters, farmers, and cooks, who utilize familiar terminology from their trades For instance, phrases like "in deep water" and "tide over" stem from maritime contexts, while "kill two birds with one stone" is derived from hunting, and "have all one's eggs in one basket" comes from farming These expressions are concise, vivid, and impactful, allowing them to transcend their original contexts and gain widespread acceptance Consequently, they have become integral to the language culture and are now employed in various situations.
Due to the distinct cultural backgrounds of English and Vietnamese, noticeable differences arise between the two languages Idioms, as an integral part of language, showcase the rich and vibrant characteristics of a nation Consequently, there are significant cultural disparities reflected in English and Vietnamese idioms.
Idioms are deeply intertwined with daily life and work, reflecting cultural values In England, an island nation that values its connection to water, the idiom "spend money like water" illustrates a carefree attitude towards spending.
Cultural perceptions of dogs vary significantly between Western countries and Vietnam In the West, dogs symbolize loyalty and faithfulness, often regarded as close companions to humans Conversely, in Vietnamese culture, the term for dog typically carries negative connotations For example, the English expression "You are a lucky dog" reflects a positive sentiment, demonstrating the stark contrast in attitudes towards dogs across different cultures.
Religious beliefs significantly influence English idioms, introducing various ideas and customs tied to spirituality Phrases like "God helps those who help themselves" and "Go to hell" exemplify how religion shapes language and cultural expressions.
Many English idioms originate from significant historical events For example, phrases like "to cross the Rubicon" and "to meet one's Waterloo" are linked to Napoleon and the fall of his empire Similarly, the idiom "by the grapevine" stems from the American Civil War, illustrating how history shapes language.
Literature Review
Cultural characteristics of English idioms
The rich diversity of English idioms is largely attributed to the language's historical evolution, with many expressions rooted in the daily lives of English speakers across various backgrounds Key sources of these idiomatic phrases include the Bible, which has significantly influenced the language, and the works of Shakespeare, known for their literary depth Additionally, idioms often arise from fables, myths, and legends, further enriching the English language.
Besides, English idioms are created by people in different trades and occupations
Many idioms originate from the everyday experiences of working individuals, such as seamen, hunters, farmers, and cooks, who use familiar terms linked to their trades For instance, phrases like "in deep water" and "tide over" stem from maritime life, while "kill two birds with one stone" comes from hunting, "have all one's eggs in one basket" from farming, "new brooms sweep clean" from household management, and "boil down" from cooking These expressions are concise, vivid, and impactful, allowing them to transcend their original contexts and become widely accepted in the language Consequently, they are now integral to the cultural fabric of the language and are applicable in various situations.
The cultural disparities between English and Vietnamese languages lead to notable differences in their idiomatic expressions Idioms, as integral components of language, encapsulate the vibrant and diverse characteristics of a culture Consequently, the cultural distinctions between English and Vietnamese idioms reveal unique insights into each nation's heritage and worldview.
Idioms are deeply intertwined with people's daily lives and professions Given that England is an island, its culture places a significant value on water, which is reflected in the idiom "spend money like water." This expression illustrates the ease and abundance with which money can be spent, much like the flowing of water.
Cultural perceptions of dogs vary significantly between Western countries and Vietnam In Western societies, dogs symbolize loyalty and faithfulness, often regarded as close companions Conversely, in Vietnamese culture, the term for dog carries a more negative connotation For instance, the English phrase "You are a lucky dog" reflects a positive sentiment, illustrating the contrasting attitudes towards dogs in different cultures.
Religious beliefs significantly influence English idioms, introducing various ideas and customs connected to faith Phrases such as "God helps those who help themselves" and "Go to hell" exemplify how religion shapes language and expression.
Many English idioms originate from significant historical events For instance, phrases like "to cross the Rubicon" and "to meet one's Waterloo" are derived from Napoleon's empire's downfall, while the American Civil War inspired expressions such as "by the grapevine."
Classification of idiom
English idioms can be classified based on various criteria, with cultural style being a preferred approach This classification divides idioms into five groups: colloquialisms, proverbs, slang, allusions, and phrasal verbs Understanding these categories enhances the study, learning, usage, and translation of idioms Each group reflects different styles, with some suitable for formal contexts while others are more informal or slang-based Familiarity with this classification is invaluable for learners and translators alike.
Colloquialisms are informal expressions commonly used in everyday conversation, such as "on the blink," which means "not working properly" or "out of order." Another example is "hang in (there)," conveying encouragement to persevere through difficulties.
―not to give up‖; ―big wheel‖，means ―an influential or important person‖
A proverb, derived from the Latin term "proverbium," is a well-known and concise saying that conveys a universal truth grounded in common sense and human experience Often metaphorical in nature, proverbs serve as guidelines for behavior and are sometimes referred to as maxims when they outline basic rules of conduct When a proverb features exceptional phrasing, it is classified as an aphorism.
Proverbs are frequently derived from various languages and cultures, often transmitted through multiple linguistic channels The Bible, particularly the Book of Proverbs, along with medieval Latin, has significantly contributed to the spread of proverbs throughout Europe, while nearly every culture also boasts its unique proverbs.
Proverbs are concise, widely recognized sayings that convey fundamental truths or practical advice Examples include "A fall into a pit, a gain in your wit," "Do as they do at Rome," and "Bitter pills may have wholesome effects."
(Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proverb)
Slang refers to informal words and expressions that deviate from standard language norms It serves as a means of expressing ideas in a casual manner and helps individuals connect with others who share similar backgrounds or experiences.
Slang is a dynamic form of language primarily found in informal and playful conversations, characterized by transient expressions and creative phrases that replace standard terminology for added flair, humor, or irreverence Its vibrant and direct nature makes slang widely appealing, with examples like "dough" or "bread" for "money," "kick the bucket" for "die," and "cancer stick" for "cigarette."
( Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slang)
Allusions are indirect references that often replace more general terms, making them more vivid and engaging For instance, the term "Trojan horse" alludes to the historical Trojan War, while "Sphinx riddle" references the mythical creature from Greek mythology, known for its head of a woman and body of a lion, which posed riddles to those it encountered.
Phrasal verbs are idiomatic expressions formed by combining a verb with a preposition and/or a particle For instance, "get away with" refers to doing something wrong without facing consequences, "put down to" indicates attributing a cause or explanation to something, and "look into" means to investigate a matter.
There is another way to classify idioms as follows:
Phrase idioms consist of a central word that can be a noun, verb, adjective, preposition, or adverb, aligning with familiar parts of speech These idioms fulfill specific syntactic roles within sentences, enhancing their meaning and coherence.
Verb phrase idioms consist of combinations that include a verb paired with an adverb, such as "look up," a verb combined with a preposition, like "make for," or a verb that incorporates both an adverb and a preposition, exemplified by "come round to." These idiomatic expressions enrich the English language, adding depth and nuance to communication.
The features of certain expressions include their close similarity to Roman loan words, such as "work out" being interchangeable with "calculate." Additionally, they can create noun compounds, exemplified by the phrase "a gang of thieves did a break-in last night." Furthermore, these expressions tend to be more vivid and expressive compared to single verbs, as illustrated by the sentence "The firecracker went off and scared my little sister," which is more dynamic than simply stating it exploded.
Verb+direct object +complement pattern：
Verb+indirect object +direct object pattern：
Use of idiom
Different idioms show different stylistic meanings Some are casual, others formal, still others neural in style The same idiom may show stylistic differences when denoting different meanings
(1) Phonetic manipulation a alliteration such as "chop and change" b rhyme such as "toil and moil"
Lexical manipulation involves various techniques to enhance language use Reiteration refers to the duplication of synonyms, exemplified by phrases like "chop and change." Repetition entails the use of the same word multiple times, as seen in expressions such as "by and by." Juxtaposition combines two antonyms, illustrated by the contrasting terms "day and night." These methods enrich communication and contribute to effective expression.
Figures of speech enrich language and enhance expression Similes compare qualities, such as being "as proud as a peacock" or "as graceful as a swan." Metaphors convey meanings through symbolism, like a "white elephant" or a "black sheep." Metonymy uses related terms, exemplified by phrases like "velvet glove" or "in the cradle." Synecdoche represents a whole through a part, as seen in "earn one's bread" or "fall into good hands." Personification attributes human traits to concepts, illustrated by sayings such as "Failure is the mother of success" and "actions speak louder than words."
Definition of color
Colors are not just pigments; they represent energy that communicates with us on a nonverbal level, deeply influencing our emotions and overall well-being In essence, color is integral to our lives, shaping our experiences and perceptions.
Moreover, color is one component of environmental language in non-verbal communication.
Classification of colors
There are 3 kinds of colors
Primary colors are essential color sets that can be mixed to create a wide spectrum of colors The primary colors typically utilized in additive color mixing are red, green, and blue, while cyan, magenta, and yellow are the primary colors used in subtractive color mixing, such as in printing and dyeing processes.
- Secondary color: is a color made by mixing two primary colors in a given color space
- Tertiary color: A tertiary color is a color made by mixing one primary color with one secondary color
Tertiary colors, such as brown and grey, differ from primary and secondary colors as they lack universally established names These colors are often created by mixing complementary colors, resulting in a diverse range of hues.
This classification, referenced from Nguyen Quang's 2007 work on nonverbal communication across cultures, emphasizes the significance of understanding nonverbal cues in diverse cultural contexts For more detailed information, you can also visit the Wikipedia page on tertiary colors.
7 Denotational meaning and connotational meaning of colors:
Black Evil, falsehood, error, grief, despair, death
Blue Chastity, loyalty, fidelity, faith, modesty, eternity, immortality
Green Love, joy, abundance, hope, youth, mirth, gladness, resurrection, spring
White Purity, truth, innocence, hope
Yellow Faith, constancy, wisdom, glory, jealousy, inconsistency
(Source: John Gage, 1999, Color and Meaning: Art, Science, and Symbolism, University of California Press)
Colors evoke various meanings based on cultural associations rather than inherent qualities For instance, red signifies warmth due to its connection with fire, while it also represents anger, reflected in the flushed redness of the face Similarly, purple symbolizes royalty, a notion rooted in the historical rarity and high cost of purple dye.
RED: warmth, love, anger, danger, boldness, excitement, speed, strength, determination, desire, courage
ORANGE: cheerfulness, low cost, affordability, enthusiasm, stimulation, creativity YELLOW: attention-grabbing, comfort, liveliness, cowardliness, hunger, optimism, overwhelm, Summer, comfort, liveliness, intellect, happiness, energy
GREEN: durability, reliability, environmental, luxurious, optimism, well- being, nature, calm, relaxation, Spring, safety, honesty, optimism, harmony, freshness
BLUE: peace, professionalism, loyalty, reliability, honor, melancholia, boredom, coldness, Winter, depth, stability, professionalism, honor, trust
PURPLE: power, royalty, nobility, elegance, sophistication, artificial, luxury, mystery, royalty, elegance, magic GRAY: conservatism, traditionalism, intelligence, serious, dull, uninteresting
BROWN: relaxing, confident, casual, reassuring, nature, earthy, solid, reliable, genuine, Autumn, endurance
BLACK: Elegance, sophistication, formality, power, strength, illegality, depression, morbidity, night
WHITE: Cleanliness, purity, newness, virginity, peace, innocence, simplicity, sterility, snow
(Source: http://changingminds.org/disciplines/communication/color_effect.htm)
Certain colors have been utilized in English to symbolize particular emotions or reactions or flavors
In Western culture, colors carry distinct meanings: white symbolizes weddings and vanilla, while brown is associated with chocolate Green represents botanical fertility, jealousy, safety, and has ties to Irish heritage Magenta often reflects raspberry flavor, whereas warmer shades of red signify strawberry, cherry, danger, or flammability, and are also linked to St Valentine’s Day.
Valentine's Day Purple may indicate grape flavor, or injury in the line of duty (the Purple
Heart Medal) or radioactivity and combined with yellow is associated with Easter
Yellow symbolizes both cowardice and loyalty, particularly in the context of armed services ribbons Green and red are recognized as traditional Christmas colors, while red and white stripes have historically represented barber shops and peppermint candy Many of these colors hold specific cultural meanings.
English, or are they universal?
Red is a vibrant color often associated with strong emotions in American culture, particularly anger, as people may describe themselves as "red hot" when upset about unfair situations This term also extends to the spicy red peppers commonly used in Mexican cuisine, known for their intense flavor Additionally, the phrase "red hot" is used to describe fast-paced music, especially genres like Dixieland jazz, that resonate with energetic and lively rhythms.
Pink is a lighter shade of red often associated with good health, as reflected in the phrase "in the pink." This expression originated in America in the early 20th century and likely stems from the rosy complexion of healthy newborns.
Blue is often seen as a cool color, contrasting sharply with the vibrant energy of red hot music Traditional blues music in the United States embodies a slow, sad, and soulful essence A notable example is Duke Ellington's iconic song "Mood Indigo," which explores the profound feelings associated with the color indigo The lyrics poignantly suggest that true sadness, or being "blue," is an experience that resonates deeply with the emotions conveyed in the music.
The color green is commonly associated with nature, particularly in trees and grass, but it is considered unnatural for humans For instance, someone experiencing nausea might describe their condition by saying they feel a bit green, and a boat passenger suffering from seasickness may appear very green due to the effects of the waves.
Feeling envious of a friend's possessions, such as a fast new car, can lead someone to say they are "green with envy." This phrase is often associated with money, as dollars are referred to as "greenbacks" due to the color of the bills Additionally, the color black is frequently used in expressions, with a "black day" describing a day when everything goes wrong or marking the anniversary of a significant tragedy Historically, a blacklist referred to a list of individuals denied employment for their affiliations with unpopular organizations, though such practices are now considered illegal.
8 The difference in colors’ meaning and symbolism
Colors carry symbolic meanings, with red often representing love, while blue is also associated with this emotion, as seen in the tradition of brides carrying something blue at their weddings Interestingly, blue has a calming effect, lowering blood pressure and respiration, in contrast to the stimulating nature of red However, blue can also be linked to feelings of sadness, as evidenced by the phrase "feeling blue."
Colors evoke a range of emotions and associations; for instance, blue can signify feelings of depression but is also the most popular color in America, even influencing toothbrush choices Black represents power, while brown is favored more by men than women, symbolizing trueness Green, associated with nature, is the most soothing color for the human eye, and purple, often linked to royalty, may also help alleviate migraines Pink, commonly associated with romance, can relieve tension and is used in diet therapy as an appetite suppressant White symbolizes purity, making it a popular choice for brides, and is considered good luck for weddings Interestingly, yellow is the first color our eyes notice, highlighting its significance in our perception of the world.
Colors hold various meanings across cultures, influencing how we perceive concepts like mourning In the U.S., Egypt, Rome, and much of Europe, black symbolizes death, while in China and Japan, white is the color of mourning In India, a married woman wearing white may be seen as inviting widowhood Interestingly, red signifies death in Celtic regions and is the official mourning color in South Africa, whereas yellow represents mourning in Burma and blue in Iran Purple is associated with death in Greece and Mexico, while in Thailand, it signifies mourning Colors also carry connotations of luck; for instance, Egyptians wore blue for protection against evil, while Greeks dye eggs red for good fortune In China, red is deemed lucky and is prominently featured in celebrations Green is revered in Egypt, symbolizes honor in Scotland, and represents victory in Greece Traditionally, brides wore white, but during the Middle Ages, green was chosen to symbolize fertility The Mennonites painted their doors green to signify a daughter's readiness for marriage, and Zulu traditions use colors to indicate a woman's relationship status Additionally, yellow was historically worn by executioners in Spain, and Native Americans associate specific colors with directions: blue for north, white for south, red for east, and black for west.
The difference in colors’ meaning and symbolism
Colors often carry symbolic meanings, with red typically representing love Interestingly, blue is also associated with love, which is why brides often incorporate something blue into their weddings However, blue can have contrasting effects; it tends to lower blood pressure and respiration rates, and it has even been linked to feelings of depression For example, when someone is feeling sad, they are often described as "feeling blue."
Colors evoke various emotions and associations; for instance, blue can signify feelings of depression, yet it remains a popular choice, especially in products like toothbrushes Black is often linked to power, while brown is more favored by men and suggests authenticity Green, associated with nature, is the most soothing color for the human eye, whereas purple can evoke mixed feelings and is connected to royalty, with potential benefits for migraine relief Pink, commonly associated with romance, also helps relieve tension and is used in diet therapy as an appetite suppressant White symbolizes purity, making it a traditional choice for brides, and is considered good luck for weddings Interestingly, yellow is the first color our eyes notice.
Color carries diverse meanings across cultures, influencing our responses in unique ways In the United States, Egypt, Rome, and much of Europe, black symbolizes mourning, while in China and Japan, white is the color of grief In India, a married woman wearing white may be seen as inviting widowhood, contrasting with the association of red with death in Celtic regions and its status as the official mourning color in South Africa Burma uses yellow for mourning, whereas Iran adopts blue In Greece and Mexico, purple signifies death, and in Thailand, it represents mourning Colors also carry connotations of luck; Egyptians donned blue to ward off evil, and in Greece, red-dyed Easter eggs are a symbol of good fortune China views red as auspicious, particularly during celebrations Green holds sacred significance in Egypt, represents the national color of Ireland, denotes honor in Scotland, and symbolizes victory in Greece While many cultures see brides in white, historically, green was worn in the Middle Ages to signify fertility The Mennonites painted their doors green to indicate a daughter’s marriage readiness, and Zulu traditions use color patterns to denote a woman's relationship status In Spain, executioners wore yellow, and criminals’ doors in France were painted this color Native American cultures associate colors with directions: blue for north and trouble, white for south and peace, red for east and success, and black for west and challenges.