现代汉语惯用语相关理论
汉语惯用语概念及其特点
The first perspective posits that idiomatic expressions primarily consist of a three-syllable verb-object structure and possess a "dual-layered" meaning This viewpoint reflects early scholarly opinions and has garnered significant influence among researchers in the field.
Idiomatic expressions are a vital component of modern Chinese, characterized by their concise structure, vivid imagery, and flexible usage, making them a popular form of expression among the public They are frequently encountered in the language, serving various purposes and continuously evolving, showcasing their strong vitality Although idiomatic expressions are structured as phrases, they are fixed in form and convey meaning as a whole, often relying on metaphorical interpretations Understanding these expressions requires a comprehensive approach rather than a literal one, with most of them typically following a three-character format.
According to Ma Guofan and Wu Xueheng in "The Comprehensive Collection of Idioms," idiomatic expressions are colloquial phrases that are concise, vivid, and flexible They can convey both positive and negative connotations, blending seriousness with humor.
Idiomatic expressions typically have a fixed structure, often consisting of three syllables and featuring verb-object or modifier-modified patterns, such as "knocking on bamboo" or "pouring cold water." While they can take forms beyond the three-character format, they generally remain concise Due to their highly colloquial nature, idiomatic expressions exhibit both rigidity and flexibility; for instance, they can be interrupted, as in "bumping into his nail," or have altered word order, exemplified by the variation "eating a duck egg" in the phrase "the duck egg is likely to be eaten."
The "Dictionary of Chinese Idioms," edited by Shi Baoyi, Jiang Linsen, and Pan Yujiang, was published by Foreign Language Mathematics and Research Press in 1985 Additionally, "Complete Collection of Idioms," authored by Ma Guofan and Wu Xueheng, was released by Inner Mongolia People's Publishing House in 2001.
In the book "Idioms," co-authored by Ma Guofan and Gao Gedong, idioms are described as fixed phrases that possess a complete and unified meaning and structure Their integrity stems from abstraction, often referred to as "virtual reference." This abstract meaning is primarily generated through metaphor Structurally, most idioms are three-syllable verb-object combinations, such as "setting an ambush" and "playing guerrilla warfare." In contrast, phrases that are not three-character or non-verb-object structures are less common, including expressions like "a dog pulling skin" and "drawing ghosts." The meaning of these idioms is not simply the sum of their components but represents a new, holistic significance.
In his article "On Idiomatic Expressions," Wang Qin discusses the nature, meaning, origin, and usage of idiomatic expressions He asserts that idiomatic expressions should be regarded as a linguistic unit alongside idioms, proverbs, and riddles, categorizing them as a type of familiar phrase Unlike single words or morphemes, idiomatic expressions are fixed phrases composed of multiple words that are structured in a specific way Their defining characteristics include being widely accepted by the public, having a long history of usage, and being well-defined and established.
The second perspective holds that the literal meaning of idiomatic expressions is their true significance, a viewpoint represented by Xu Zongcai and Ying Junling in their work, "Examples and Explanations of Idiomatic Expressions."
Xu Zongcai and Ying Junling's "Examples and Explanations of Idiomatic Expressions" defines idiomatic expressions by distinguishing them from idioms Unlike idioms, idiomatic expressions are socially established phrases that form a significant part of colloquial language, existing in Chinese for a long time and outnumbering idioms These expressions not only have deep historical roots but also continue to emerge abundantly in contemporary language, encountered daily in various contexts While the structure of idiomatic expressions is relatively fixed, there is a degree of flexibility allowed in their organization They convey general concepts, and their literal meanings align with their true significance Although some idiomatic expressions possess figurative and metaphorical meanings, their primary interpretation remains grounded in their literal sense.
Not all idiomatic expressions possess the same characteristics This distinction highlights their differences from idioms Additionally, some argue that idiomatic expressions must consist of four syllables or more, suggesting that three-syllable phrases should be classified as words.
在结构上不受限制，可以从四个字到十几个字。
The works of Ma Guofan and Gao Gedong, titled "Idiomatic Expressions," published by Inner Mongolia People's Publishing House in 1982, alongside Xu Zongcai and Ying Junling's "Examples and Explanations of Idiomatic Expressions," released by Beijing Language Institute Press in 1985, provide valuable insights into the study of idiomatic language These publications are essential resources for understanding the nuances and applications of idiomatic expressions in the Chinese language.
Mr Wenduanzheng emphasizes the importance of analyzing idiomatic expressions within the broader context of vocabulary He distinguishes idioms as vocabulary units, separate from non-vocabulary units such as compound words and specialized terms Furthermore, he highlights the necessity of differentiating idiomatic expressions from related vocabulary elements, particularly idioms and proverbs Based on this understanding, he categorizes language into three types: expressive, descriptive, and quoted language He further separates idioms from expressive and descriptive language based on their structural characteristics Proverbs are defined as non-expressive language that does not follow the "two-two inheritance" structure, while idiomatic expressions are categorized as non-expressive descriptive language This classification offers a clearer distinction between idiomatic expressions and other language types, such as idioms, proverbs, and riddles, while also expanding the inclusivity of idiomatic expressions and resolving long-standing debates about their structural and semantic complexities.
A prominent study representing this viewpoint is Zhou Jian's "On Four-Syllable and Three-Syllable Expressions." In this work, Zhou Jian argues that idiomatic expressions must consist of four syllables or more, citing examples such as "passing fortune," "straddling two boats," and "drinking cold water gets stuck in the teeth."
The concept and characteristics of idiomatic expressions in the Chinese language are viewed differently within academic circles In my opinion, idiomatic expressions are a vital component of modern Chinese, characterized by their concise structure, vivid imagery, and flexible usage, making them a popular form of expression among the public They are frequently encountered in the language, widely applicable, and continually evolving, showcasing a strong vitality While idiomatic expressions have fixed formats, they also allow for a degree of flexibility, with most possessing both imagery and metaphorical significance.
In a narrow sense, idiomatic expressions are not words or even smaller units than words; rather, they are fixed phrases formed by several words through specific structural relationships Broadly speaking, some idiomatic expressions resemble single words, while others appear as phrases Those that structurally resemble single words are not ordinary terms but rather established expressions recognized by the Chinese populace, such as "turtle" and "loach." Therefore, I believe that the structural form of idiomatic expressions should be viewed from a broad perspective, encompassing characteristics of both words and phrases.
[5] 周端政，《熟语研究与探索》， 上海辞书出版社， 2005 年
本课题的相关研究
在中国
In her 2009 thesis titled "A Study on the Characteristics and Practical Significance of Idiomatic Expressions," Li Huijuan focuses on the structure, semantics, and real-world implications of idiomatic expressions Chen Huaqin's work, "Analysis of Modern Chinese Idiomatic Expressions and Their Cultural Connotations," delves into the semantics of idioms along with their cultural dimensions, including material, institutional, and spiritual aspects Additionally, Fang Zhaolu's article, "A Brief Discussion on the Socio-Cultural Connotations of Chinese Idiomatic Expressions," examines the origins and characteristics of idioms, highlighting their reflection of social and cultural meanings.
谷俊在《惯用语和成语的色彩义比较》 (《西南民族大学学报(人文社科版)》
In the July 2004 issue, the article explores the nature and scope of idiomatic expressions and proverbs by examining their various colorations, including stylistic, emotional, imagery, and temporal aspects This comparative analysis highlights the distinctive characteristics of idiomatic language.
The article by Mali Jun, Zhang Jingyu, and Zhang Jijia, titled "Various Psychological Mechanisms in Understanding Idioms," explores idioms from a psychological perspective, positing that they are a form of metaphorical expression The authors identify a conflict between syntactic analysis, which leads to the literal meaning of idioms, and semantic analysis, which uncovers their metaphorical significance To address this conflict, researchers propose three viewpoints: the non-constructivist view, which suggests that idiom understanding involves direct extraction of metaphorical meaning; the constructivist view, which emphasizes the role of morphemes in comprehension; and the relevance theory hypothesis, which asserts that understanding idioms involves maximizing semantic connections between morphemes and whole words, as well as optimizing information exchange during communication Extensive research indicates that the psychological mechanisms involved in processing idioms cannot be simplified into a single model, as they are influenced by various factors, including materials and pragmatics, and adhere to multiple psychological processing mechanisms.
Zheng Runji's study in "A Comparative Study of 'Limb' Idioms in Chinese and Korean" (Central China Normal University, 2007) focuses on idiomatic expressions related to limbs in both Chinese and Korean languages The research begins by defining these bodily idioms.
This article explores the concept and classification of idiomatic expressions related to "limbs" in Chinese and Korean languages It employs a comparative approach to analyze these expressions, highlighting their similarities and differences The study concludes by summarizing the characteristics of idiomatic expressions in both languages and examining the cultural backgrounds and thought processes that contribute to these variations.
Chinese idiomatic expressions, a form of colloquial language, are products of Han culture and reflect the characteristics, lifestyles, and cultural backgrounds of the Han people These idioms possess a unique expressiveness, distinguishing them from regular vocabulary, as their meanings often diverge from their literal interpretations, featuring polysemy, meaning shifts, and extensions This complexity poses challenges for learners of Chinese Consequently, many idioms have been studied from a pedagogical perspective to aid in teaching the language.
刘昀在《惯用语语对外教学》（ 天津师范大学津沽学院）中认为惯用语具有
The concept of "pun" embodies a flexible structure that cleverly encapsulates complex emotions and cultural nuances within a single phrase Therefore, educators can leverage the characteristics of idiomatic expressions in teaching Chinese as a foreign language by focusing on aspects such as meaning, culture, structure, and context This approach fosters the exchange and collaboration between Chinese culture and global cultures.
Luận văn thạc sĩ của Trương Yến Hoa, mang tên "Chiến lược giảng dạy ngữ pháp của các thành ngữ hiện đại trong giảng dạy tiếng Trung cho người nước ngoài" (Đại học Sơn Đông, 2008), tổng hợp và phân tích các nghiên cứu trước đây về nguồn gốc, tính chất và cấu trúc ngữ pháp của thành ngữ Tác giả tập trung vào bốn khía cạnh: hình thức âm thanh, hiểu nghĩa, yếu tố văn hóa và sự phát triển của thành ngữ Trong chương ba, tác giả mô tả những sai sót mà sinh viên quốc tế gặp phải khi học thành ngữ và đưa ra các chiến lược giảng dạy phù hợp với từng giai đoạn học tập Chương bốn dựa trên phân tích từ điển tĩnh và động, tác giả đề xuất sửa đổi cho danh sách từ vựng HSK và phân tích sự phân bố của thành ngữ trong các chương trình truyền hình và phỏng vấn trực tuyến.
In addition, notable works include Qin Jieru's "A Brief Discussion on the Teaching of Idiomatic Expressions in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language," Li Li's "Characteristics of Idiomatic Expressions and Their Implications for Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language" from Xinjiang University, and Jun Xiaogeng's "Challenges and Strategies for Teaching Idiomatic Expressions in Chinese as a Foreign Language" from Liaoning University.
Research on Chinese idiomatic expressions is diverse and has achieved significant milestones, primarily focusing on the multifaceted examination of idiom semantics, as well as the social and cultural implications embedded in these expressions, along with their pedagogical aspects.
在越南
In the paper "The Relationship Between Chinese Idioms and Chinese Culture," the author summarizes the concept and characteristics of modern Chinese idioms The study explores the cultural connotations reflected in these idioms through three dimensions: material culture, institutional culture, and spiritual culture Additionally, the findings are applied to Chinese language teaching, providing valuable insights for learners of Chinese.
In the master's thesis titled "A Study of Three-Character Idiomatic Expressions Related to Body Parts in Chinese," the author first summarizes previous scholars' discussions on the nature, scope, and distinctions between idiomatic expressions, idioms, and proverbs in Chinese The thesis then analyzes the structure, grammatical functions, semantics, and rhetorical features of three-character idiomatic expressions related to body parts In the third chapter, the author examines the errors made by Vietnamese students when using these idiomatic expressions, identifies the causes of these errors, and proposes some teaching methods to address them.
Currently, there is a notable gap in research on animal metaphors in idiomatic expressions between China and Vietnam This study aims to explore the grammatical structure, syntactic functions, semantic characteristics, rhetorical techniques, cultural connotations, and pragmatic aspects of these idiomatic expressions Additionally, it will analyze common errors made by students when using these idioms and identify the underlying causes of these mistakes Finally, the research will propose several teaching methods and provide practical recommendations for improving the instruction of Chinese idiomatic expressions.
汉语惯用语的来源
来源于行业语
Due to the frequent interaction of industry and group jargon with society, these terms have adapted to meet the needs of the general public As more people began to use them, these expressions became widely recognized, eventually evolving into common phrases embraced by everyone.
The term "跑龙套" originally comes from theatrical language, referring to minor roles such as attendants or soldiers in traditional dramas Over time, it has evolved into a commonly used expression, symbolizing the act of handling trivial tasks or responsibilities that do not carry significant weight.
The term "走过场," originally a theatrical expression, refers to a character briefly appearing on stage and quickly exiting without much interaction Over time, it has evolved into a colloquial phrase that symbolizes a perfunctory display or superficial effort, indicating that something is done merely for show rather than with genuine intent.
其他，如：“打埋伏”、“打游击”（军事用语），“后炮”、“将一军”
（下棋术语）， “鬼画符”、“白虎星”“迷信用语”等都是。
来源于历史事件或传说
“莫须有”， 本来的意思是“恐怕有，也许有”。它来源于一个历史事件。据
The "Song History: Biography of Yue Fei" recounts an incident where Han Tianshi questioned Qin Hui about the charges against Yue Fei, stating that the accusations were unfounded Qin Hui dismissed the concerns, claiming the evidence was vague and insubstantial Han Tianshi's retort, "What do you mean by 'unfounded'?" has since evolved into a common phrase used to describe baseless fabrications.
The term "破天荒" signifies something unprecedented or the first occurrence of an event According to "北梦琐言," during the Tang Dynasty, the region of Jingzhou sent many candidates to take the imperial examination each year, yet none succeeded This led people to refer to the situation as "天荒." Eventually, when someone from Jingzhou finally passed the exam, marking the first success for the region, it was termed "破天荒."
The idiom "吃闭门羹" (to be denied entry) originates from the historical account in "Yunxian Zaji," which describes a high-class courtesan named Shi Feng in the imperial city who treated guests based on their status—welcoming esteemed visitors warmly while dismissing lower-status guests with a closed door This expression has evolved to signify being refused entry or facing rejection Similarly, the term "下逐客令" (to issue an eviction order) comes from a story in the Warring States period, where the State of Qin expelled visiting scholars from other states, later becoming a general term for sending guests away These expressions reflect social hierarchies and the dynamics of hospitality in historical China.
“借东风”, 借《三国演义》中的故事打比方，常指利用某种良好时机。
来源于历史事件或传说的惯用语还有很多， 例如：
上西天：指离开人世。“西天”是传说中如来佛居住的地方。
"Entering the Ghost Gate" refers to the legendary entrance to the underworld, symbolizing the profound suffering and trials one endures through calamity This phrase is often used metaphorically to describe the experience of facing extreme hardships and life-threatening challenges.
According to legend, the underworld features "Eighteen Layers of Hell," designed to punish the souls of the damned This term now refers to the most severe punishments, involving extreme physical or mental torment.
The term "迷魂汤" (mi hun tang), often translated as "bewitching soup," does not refer to a specific traditional Chinese medicine Instead, it is a legendary concoction described as a potion that combines the essence of desire with flavors resembling alcohol—salty, sour, bitter, spicy, and sweet Its potent effects are said to cause individuals to forget their past experiences Today, the phrase is metaphorically used to describe persuasive or enchanting language that captivates and influences others.
怀鬼胎：指隐藏不可告人的意图。
The term "tightening the spell" originates from the mythological novel "Journey to the West," symbolizing restrictions and constraints imposed on individuals Conversely, "revealing the fox's tail" refers to ancient legends where foxes could transform into human forms to deceive others, yet their tails remained unchanged, serving as a telltale sign of their true nature Today, this phrase metaphorically represents the true nature of wrongdoers and serves as evidence of their deceptive actions.
来源于谚语或歇后语的省略
The phrase "抱佛脚," derived from the proverb "急则抱佛脚," metaphorically describes a state of unpreparedness and frantic last-minute efforts Historical references, such as those from Liu Ban's "Zhongshan Poetry Talks" in the Song Dynasty, illustrate its usage in a dialogue about reliance on monks, emphasizing that when in urgent need, one often resorts to desperate measures Additionally, Zhang Shinan's "Travel Notes" from the same era mentions a region in Yunnan that highly values Buddhism, further highlighting the cultural significance of this expression.
The saying "When in trouble, seek help from the Buddha" reflects the belief that those who commit crimes should urgently seek repentance in a temple to atone for their sins This concept is encapsulated in the proverb "Only burning incense in times of need," which emphasizes the tendency of individuals to turn to spirituality in desperate moments The phrase "抱佛脚" (literally "hugging the Buddha's feet") has evolved from this saying, illustrating the cultural practice of seeking divine intervention when faced with dire situations.
The phrase "白费蜡" translates to "wasting wax," signifying a lack of effectiveness or effort that yields no results For instance, if the first strategy fails, it can be considered a waste of effort This idiomatic expression is an abbreviated form of "瞎子点灯——白费蜡," illustrating the futility of certain actions.
来源于外来语
The term "milestone" originally referred to markers placed alongside roads to indicate distance Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for significant events in historical development It can also be referred to as a "journey marker." Similarly, "marathon," derived from the English word, denotes an ultra-long-distance race covering 42,195 meters and is now used to describe processes or meetings that extend for a prolonged duration.
来源于各地的方言
Dialect is typically used in specific regions, but as people from different areas interact, the familiarity and usage of these dialects can grow, leading some to evolve into commonly used phrases nationwide.
"拆烂污," originally a dialect from certain southern regions, has become widely used to describe irresponsibility and the act of ruining situations It is also referred to as "扯烂污."
Rumors are circulating that you are selling cheap, low-quality goods to make a quick profit and plan to escape with the money This situation reflects the ongoing conflict surrounding the "Lin Family Shop."
（2）小崔太太打算扯咱们的烂污，那不行，我马上过去，给他点颜色看看！
（老舍：《四世同堂》）
The term "old nose," originally a dialect from certain northern regions, has become widely used to describe something that has become multifaceted or complex.
Eating two meals of acorn flour a day can lead to severe stomach bloating and discomfort, resulting in numerous deaths from starvation and cold.
"Don't cry, good child! Many children like us, who have lost their homeland and parents, are abundant The Japanese invaders have turned countless people into orphans and widows."
Some dialects have only recently entered the national language, resulting in idiomatic expressions that retain certain regional characteristics However, over time and with widespread usage, these dialectal influences are likely to fade.
来源于特殊的借用
The phrases "一推六二五" and "不管三七二十一" originated as arithmetic mnemonics but have evolved into idiomatic expressions They convey meanings such as "to divide evenly," "all at once," "to shift responsibility cleanly," and "regardless of the circumstances."
“二百五 ”、“半吊子”、“着三不着两 ”等亦属此类。
Idiomatic expressions, while primarily metaphorical fixed phrases, have complex origins that stem from various sources.
来源于制度、习俗
"Entering the Cold Palace" originally referred to the place where emperors in feudal society would confine their disfavored consorts Today, it signifies a location for storing unused items or represents a state of being overlooked or disregarded.
戴纱帽：原指封建社会做官时戴乌纱帽，现指做官。
"Officialese" originally referred to the formal language used in historical bureaucratic settings, but it now signifies the act of using rules and procedures to deflect responsibility or blame onto others Conversely, "to carry someone's sedan chair" originally described the practice of wealthy officials being carried in sedan chairs, and it now means to flatter or assist someone in order to gain personal benefits.
立军令状：旧指接受某项军事作战任务所立的保证书。现取其比喻义。
"打退堂鼓," originally referring to officials beating a drum to signal the conclusion of a meeting, now symbolizes a retreat or withdrawal in the middle of a process This expression highlights the concept of backing out or giving up when faced with challenges.
"False imperial edicts" refer to the deceptive practice in feudal society where individuals falsely claimed to represent the emperor's will to manipulate and oppress others This term is now used metaphorically to describe similar acts of deceit and manipulation in various contexts.
来源于宗教、迷信
Religion and superstition are integral components of Han culture, reflecting the spiritual world of the Han people The Chinese language contains numerous idiomatic expressions that illustrate the religious beliefs of the Han ethnic group.
"Burning a broken incense stick, once rooted in ancient superstition, was believed to bring misfortune rather than blessings from the Buddha This practice signifies that using a damaged incense stick not only fails to invoke protection but may also lead to punishment or retribution Today, it is commonly used to refer to an unfavorable outcome."
敲木鱼：原是僧尼念经时敲打法器；现用来表示提醒、警示。
In ancient times, monks and Daoists relied on incantations to expel demons and avert disasters; without these spells, they found themselves powerless against malevolent forces Today, the term "no incantation" signifies a lack of effective means to confront challenges, leaving individuals feeling helpless and without solutions.
The phenomenon of green smoke rising from ancestral graves is steeped in superstition, with the belief that such signs indicate good fortune for the family It is said that families with green smoke above their ancestral tombs may experience prosperity, success in official positions, or financial gains Today, this expression is often used to refer to good luck and positive omens.
The term "Hengha Erjiang" originally referred to two gatekeepers depicted in the classic Chinese novel "Investiture of the Gods." In the story, one exhales white mist through his nose, while the other breathes out yellow mist from his mouth, portraying them as fierce and formidable figures Today, the term is commonly used to describe the henchmen or accomplices of powerful individuals.
鬼门关：原是迷信传说中进入阴间的入口；现指生死关口或险地。
The Yama King Hall, originally the governing chamber of Yama in the underworld, now symbolizes a terrifying and dark place that leads to death.
"Guihua Fu," originally referring to the talismans used by sorcerers to expel ghosts and spirits, has evolved to describe puzzling tricks or poorly executed writing techniques.
In the New Testament, Jesus is crucified, symbolizing the suffering endured and the concept of vicarious suffering for others.
老（旧）皇历：原指旧的历书；现多指陈旧与过时。
现代汉语惯用语与成语、歇后语的区别
惯用语与成语的区别
The distinction between idiomatic expressions and Chinese idioms has long been a topic of discussion in the field of Chinese linguistics Liu Shuxin noted in "Descriptive Lexicology of Chinese" that while differentiating idiomatic expressions from proverbs and riddles is relatively straightforward, distinguishing them from idioms presents challenges Some scholars even group the two together without making a clear distinction.
In the book "Chinese Idioms" edited by Shi Baoyi, Jiang Linsen, and Pan Yujiang, the authors assert that while both idioms and set phrases are fixed expressions, idioms exhibit a stronger structural rigidity than set phrases Idioms possess a more rigorous structure, which distinguishes them from other forms of fixed expressions in the Chinese language.
Idioms are often rigid and difficult to separate, while colloquial expressions have a more flexible structure that allows for the insertion of additional elements The majority of idioms are composed of four characters, whereas most colloquial expressions consist of three characters Additionally, idioms tend to have a formal written quality, while colloquial expressions are more commonly used in spoken language.
Distinguishing between idiomatic expressions and fixed phrases is indeed a challenging task In his book "Idiomatic Expressions," Ma Guofan compares the similarities and differences between these two linguistic categories from several perspectives.
First, let's compare the fixed nature of idioms Idioms exhibit the strongest degree of fixedness among various types of fixed expressions Not only are their meanings well-defined, but their structures are also highly rigid Changes to the components or structural relationships of idioms are generally not permitted, except in special circumstances such as rhetorical needs In contrast, colloquial expressions are less strict in this regard.
第二、比较音节的数目。成语一四音节为主， 惯用语以三音节为主。例如：
成语 惯用语
不以为然 耳边风
谈天说地 摆龙门
代人受过 背黑锅
有机可乘 钻空子
夸大其词 吹大气
还有一部分四音节的惯用语，形式上近似成语，例如：
成语 惯用语
夸夸其谈 耍嘴皮子
惹事生非 用马蜂窝
狼狈为奸 穿连裆裤
The idioms and expressions here consist of four syllables, making them difficult to differentiate based solely on syllable count However, their internal structures vary significantly; four-syllable idioms often feature pairs that are either contrasting or complementary, forming connections in pairs.
In the realm of Chinese language, certain phrases such as "惹事生非" (stirring up trouble) and "狼狈为奸" (colluding in wrongdoing) exemplify the use of two-syllable structures, which are relatively rare While some expressions like "绣花枕头" (embroidered pillow) and "胶皮饭碗" (rubber rice bowl) also follow this pattern, they predominantly consist of modern two-syllable words rather than the ancient monosyllabic terms commonly found in idioms This distinction aids in differentiating idioms from colloquial expressions, although a few overlapping cases exist where phrases can function as both idioms and colloquialisms without disrupting the fundamental classification.
The organization and composition of idioms and colloquial expressions differ significantly; idioms primarily consist of monosyllabic components, while colloquial expressions utilize both monosyllabic and disyllabic elements When analyzing the percentage of syllable usage, colloquial expressions heavily favor polysyllabic components compared to idioms In many three-syllable colloquial expressions, two syllables form a disyllabic word, whereas idioms are predominantly composed of single-syllable words Additionally, some idioms consist of four-syllable components.
惩 - 前 - 毖 - 后 意- 在 - 言- 外 千- 锤 - 百- 炼
水 - 到 - 渠 - 成 无 - 独 - 有 - 偶 藏 - 垢 - 纳 - 污 包含有双音成分的成语：
战战 - 兢兢 遥远 - 法 - 外 刺刺 - 不 - 休 包含多音皆的惯用语， 如：
闯 - 红灯 拍 - 马屁 拉 - 关系
The internal structural relationships of idiomatic expressions are significantly more complex than those of commonly used phrases While four-character idioms can have up to three layers of relationships, common phrases typically consist of only one or two layers.
Idioms have a long and varied history, with diverse origins, while colloquial expressions emerged later, primarily stemming from metaphorical usage.
The distinction between idiomatic expressions and set phrases in Chinese is a complex issue that has been widely discussed within the linguistic community Despite various viewpoints, a clear differentiation between idiomatic expressions and set phrases has yet to be established However, Ma Guofan has conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis that effectively highlights the similarities and differences between these two categories.
惯用语与谚语的区别
Idioms are typically fixed four-character structures that cannot be altered, while proverbs are more flexible in form and can vary in length Proverbs encapsulate the experiences and struggles of everyday life, conveying deeper and richer meanings than common phrases For example, sayings like "When hearts are united, mountains can be moved" and "Three feet of ice does not form in a single day" illustrate the wisdom found in proverbs.
[8]施宝义、姜林森、潘玉江，《汉语惯用语词典》，1985 年，前言，第 4
Proverbs are typically structured as phrases, often featuring parallelism, while idiomatic expressions are mostly concise, standardized phrases Although they convey similar meanings, proverbs and idioms differ in their modes of expression.
【表二】惯用语与谚语的比较
惯用语与歇后语的区别
In life, some people tend to nitpick, similar to finding faults in an egg, while others prefer to lead by understanding the main issues, like guiding a cow by its nose Just as a fish can slip through a net, opportunities can be missed if not properly managed When faced with challenges, it's common for individuals to seek help only in times of need, akin to praying only when in trouble Lastly, when authority figures are absent, those who are usually overlooked may rise to prominence, much like a monkey claiming the title of king in the absence of a tiger.
此外， 谚语与成语相似， 定型固定化， 一般来说中间不能插入其他成分，
而 惯用语则灵活松散， 可以嵌入其他成分， 意义不变。
1.4.3 惯用语与歇后语的区别 惯用语与歇后语的区别是明显的。 歇后语是由两部分组成的， 前一部分是比 喻， 后一部分是解释。 如：泥菩萨过江——自身难保； 狮子尾巴摇铜铃——热闹 的在后头； 木匠戴枷——自作自受等。 惯用语只有一部分， 大多是比喻的定型 化， 用的是字面意义的转义。 即使相同的意义， 惯用语与歇后语的表达方式也不 相同。例如：
【表三】惯用语与歇后语的比较
惯用语 歇后语
The article explores various Chinese idioms and their meanings "一路货" refers to a consistent quality or type of goods, while "绕圈子" signifies going in circles without making progress "呱呱叫" describes a noisy or chaotic situation, akin to a dog chasing ducks "老鼻子" denotes someone with extensive experience, likened to a big-nosed father figure "连轴转" illustrates a continuous and relentless effort, similar to a carpenter tirelessly working Lastly, "白费蜡" means a futile endeavor, comparable to a blind person lighting a lamp in vain.
The relationship between idiomatic expressions and their corresponding proverbs remains unclear, as it is uncertain whether idioms originated first, leading to the creation of proverbs, or if proverbs existed initially, with idioms serving as their abbreviated forms Further research is needed to clarify this connection.
Idiomatic expressions are a vital component of modern Chinese, characterized by their concise structure, vivid imagery, and flexible usage They are a popular form of expression among the public, appearing frequently in the language and serving a wide range of purposes With strong vitality, idiomatic expressions continue to evolve and develop While they have fixed formats, there is also a degree of flexibility, and most idioms possess both imagery and metaphorical significance.
惯用语有以下几个特点:
Idiomatic expressions in Chinese are rhetorical devices that should not be interpreted literally, as they possess unique meanings that must be understood contextually While these expressions often carry emotional connotations, the majority are negative in tone, requiring careful consideration during use Structurally, they primarily consist of a three-character pattern with a verb-object format, allowing for some flexibility in construction; elements can be inserted, rearranged, or overlapped Additionally, most idioms carry rhetorical significance and exhibit a colloquial style.
Idioms have a diverse origin, primarily deriving from industry jargon, historical events or legends, proverbs, and ellipses of colloquial expressions They also include loanwords and regional dialects.
Idioms, phrases, proverbs, and allusions fall under the category of熟语 (familiar expressions), yet they differ significantly in structure and expression Idioms exhibit a stronger rigidity in structure compared to idiomatic expressions, which are more flexible and can incorporate additional elements Most idioms are structured in four-character forms, while idiomatic expressions typically consist of three-character forms Idioms are more formal, whereas idiomatic expressions lean towards colloquial usage Proverbs encapsulate the collective experiences of the people, offering richer and deeper insights than idiomatic expressions They are often structured as short, parallel phrases, while idiomatic expressions are generally concise, standardized phrases The distinction between idiomatic expressions and allusions is also clear; allusions consist of two parts—an analogy and an explanation—whereas idiomatic expressions typically consist of a single part, often employing metaphorical meanings Even when conveying similar meanings, idiomatic expressions and allusions differ in their modes of expression.
第二章 现代汉语以动物喻人的惯用语的特点
2.1 现代汉语以动物喻人的惯用语的结构特点 以动物喻人的惯用语在结构上是词组，但不同于一般词组，惯用语是定型的， 所表达的意义是完整的。
2.1.1 语音结构形式 2.1.1.1 以三音节为主 惯用语是一种习用的固定的词组，既有固定格式，又有比较灵活的结构。根据 本人所收集的惯用语中，有很多涉及动物的惯用语， 其中有 193 个是以动物喻人 的惯用语。 涉及动物的惯用语种类很多， 其中涉及最多的动物是狗和马， 其次是 虫子、鸡鸭之类的动物。本人从马国凡、施宝义分别编辑的《惯用语集锦》与《惯 用语词典》等词典所收集的惯用语中发现以动物喻人的惯用语主要是以三音节为 主， 有两音节或三个以上的惯用语所占的比例很少。 具体如下：
Table 4 presents the distribution and proportion of syllable counts in modern Chinese idiomatic expressions used to describe people, categorized into two to eight syllables.
例子 老蟹 漏网鱼 没头苍
比兔子 胆儿还
别人肚 子里的
蛔虫 2.1.1.2 结构形式特点：
Due to the diverse nature of idiomatic expressions, which lack distinct patterns, their surface forms vary in syllable length Some idioms resemble single words, while others appear as phrases For instance, idioms that use animal metaphors to describe people often consist of two syllables, such as "tortoise" to refer to someone who lags behind or a spouse who is unfaithful, and "loach" to denote a slippery or dishonest person Conversely, idioms resembling phrases typically contain three or more syllables Most animal metaphors used to describe individuals are characterized by a fragmented structure.
The structure of duality primarily consists of six-syllable idiomatic expressions that have a catchy rhythm, such as "startled bird" and "leaky net fish."
As idiomatic expressions, their structure is fixed and complete, and they possess a cohesive and solid meaning that cannot be arbitrarily altered or combined Idiomatic expressions that use animals to metaphorically describe humans can be categorized into several distinct types based on their structural characteristics.
The "偏正式" (pian zheng shi) is a type of phrase where the first part serves to modify or restrict the meaning of the second part, known as the headword This structure includes cases where the headword is a noun, verb, or adjective In idiomatic expressions that use animals to symbolize humans, the defining structure primarily follows the "定中式" (ding zhong shi) format, where the headword is a noun, and the modifying elements act as attributes Sometimes, a structural particle is needed between the modifying component and the headword, as in "没笼头的马" (the horse without a bridle), while in other instances, no structural particle is present There are numerous examples of this "定中式" structure in idioms that metaphorically relate animals to human characteristics.
现代汉语以动物喻人惯用语的特点
现代汉语以动物喻人惯用语的语义特点
2.3 现代汉语以动物喻人的惯用语的语义特点:
Idioms are unique linguistic forms that possess dual meanings, encompassing both literal interpretations and deeper, contextual significance When explaining the meaning of idioms, it is essential to consider both aspects.
2.3.1 惯用语的字面意义：
The literal meaning of idiomatic expressions is derived from their constituent components These expressions typically take the form of a word or phrase, allowing their literal meanings to be constructed from their morphemes or words For instance, "a horse without a bridle," "a chameleon," and "a smiling tiger" illustrate this concept, with their literal meanings translating to "a horse without a headgear," "a dragon that changes color," and "a tiger with a smile," respectively Understanding the literal meanings of idioms heavily relies on the role of morphemes, as analyzing the constituent words can reveal both their surface and deeper meanings However, not all idiomatic expressions allow for such straightforward interpretations; a small percentage, like "马泊六," defy comprehension through their components alone.
The term "马泊六," originally "马八六," describes the continuous sound of a horse farting and has evolved to refer to someone with a sharp tongue or, metaphorically, to a person who facilitates inappropriate relationships between men and women Understanding such idiomatic expressions requires insight into their origins and commonly accepted meanings However, the focus of our study should be on the actual significance of these expressions rather than their literal interpretations.
2.3.2 惯用语的实际意义：
Idioms are a form of figurative language where their meanings cannot be understood through the simple addition or integration of their individual components Instead, idioms convey metaphorical concepts that transcend their literal meanings For example, consider the following two sets of examples.
（31）我沉默不语，睨视着犀吉，犹如从水池中刚爬上岸的 落水狗 ，混身在颤抖。
Despite past restrictions and difficulties imposed by the female leader on Xiaolin regarding his party membership, he revealed everything necessary during the recent exposé Now that she has become a scapegoat, Xiaolin feels no need to emulate Lu Xun However, seeing the now emaciated female leader evokes a sense of guilt in him, prompting him to greet her.
（33）他不慌不忙地下了马，把缰绳撂在拴马桩上。
Soon, they began to laugh again, remarking, "Look, he left just like that!" One added, "But he's more flustered than during the New Year or even getting married!" Another chimed in, "Even tying up the horse won't help now."
Trong ví dụ (31), cụm từ "落水狗" (Lạc Thủy Khuyển) chỉ một con chó rơi xuống nước, phản ánh nghĩa gốc của nó như một cụm từ tự do Trong ví dụ (32), "落水狗" được trừu tượng hóa để mang một ý nghĩa mới, trở thành nghĩa thực tế của nó trong ngữ cảnh thành ngữ: ám chỉ những kẻ xấu bị mất quyền lực.
In example (33), "拴马桩" refers to a wooden post used for tying up horses, representing its literal meaning as a free phrase and the etymological origin of the idiom In example (34), "拴马桩" takes on a new abstract meaning, evolving into an idiomatic expression that metaphorically describes a woman who can control her husband.
Idioms cannot be understood solely through their literal meanings, as their true significance lies in their metaphorical and extended interpretations Once an expression becomes an idiom, its original literal meaning becomes irrelevant; instead, it conveys abstract or generalized meanings Many idioms use animals as metaphors for humans, with their actual meanings primarily derived from these comparisons To grasp the metaphorical significance of idioms, it is essential to categorize the animals involved and examine the characteristics of idioms related to specific animals, particularly those that metaphorically describe human traits One key category includes idioms formed from domesticated animals, which carry distinct semantic implications.
Animals are an integral part of nature and play a crucial role in human life Throughout history, humans have maintained a close relationship with animals, which has significantly influenced their survival and development People often use animals to express emotions, leading to a rich vocabulary in human language that includes many terms related to animals These terms not only refer to the animals themselves but also metaphorically represent humans Similarly, in Chinese, idiomatic expressions frequently use animals as metaphors, particularly to describe human characteristics.
Domestic animals are closely linked to human life, leading to a deep understanding of their appearance and behavioral traits The main types of domestic animals include dogs, pigs, cats, chickens, ducks, horses, cows, sheep, donkeys, and rabbits.
Dogs are often regarded as loyal companions in many countries, yet in Chinese idioms, they carry negative connotations Terms like "哈巴狗" (hā bā gǒu) refer to submissive individuals, while "看家狗" (kàn jiā gǒu) describes bureaucrats or household managers Furthermore, "癫皮狗" (diān pí gǒu) denotes despicable people, "狗腿子" (gǒu tuǐ zi) refers to accomplices of wrongdoers, and "狗屎堆" (gǒu shǐ duī) symbolizes individuals who are particularly detestable.
Pigs are often perceived as lazy and dirty animals due to their lifelong existence in filthy environments This negative perception is reflected in various idiomatic expressions associated with pigs, which typically carry derogatory connotations.
“大懒猪”：比喻懒惰的人。
“拱槽猪”：比喻身体肥胖，行动愚笨的人。
Cats are known for their tendency to sleep during the day and be active at night There are many idiomatic expressions associated with cats, highlighting their unique behaviors and characteristics.
“夜猫子” —— 比喻喜欢晚睡的人。
“野猫” —— 喻举止粗野、不守规矩、纵情放肆的人。
“煨灶猫” —— 喻无精打采、萎靡不振的人。
“馋嘴猫” —— 指馋嘴好吃的人或指贪恋女色的男人。
“三脚猫” —— 比喻对知识、技艺略知皮毛的人。
“被窝猫” —— 办事毫无勇气,不敢见世面的人。
In Chinese culture, the rabbit symbolizes agility and grace, as illustrated by the phrase "兔起鹘落," which describes someone who moves swiftly Additionally, the expression "狗兔听提" conveys a sense of submissiveness akin to that of a rabbit However, the rabbit also carries connotations of cunning and deceit, highlighting its dual nature in Chinese symbolism.
罗雉 离”、“狡兔三窟”。
汉语中与兔子相关的惯用语有好的一面， 也有不好的一面。例如：
现代汉语以动物喻人惯用语的修辞特点
The Chinese language, through its long development, has produced a rich array of fixed expressions, including idioms, colloquialisms, proverbs, and set phrases These expressions are distilled from extensive usage, representing the core essence of the language and embodying the wisdom of the people, reflecting the unique cultural characteristics of the nation As carriers of life experiences, these expressions not only describe entities or explain concepts but also convey the speaker's subjective evaluations, attitudes, and emotional nuances Beyond their lexical meanings, fixed expressions also possess rhetorical significance, showcasing various rhetorical features, particularly those enriched with metaphors, which are vivid, concise, and impactful in conveying thoughts and emotions This article will explore the rhetorical devices and effects of Chinese fixed expressions.
2.4.1 常用的修辞法：
Idiomatic expressions convey meanings that go beyond the mere sum of their literal interpretations, representing a holistic significance expressed through various rhetorical techniques Common rhetorical devices used in animal metaphors for humans include metaphor, exaggeration, and metonymy.
2.4.1.1 比喻法 比喻法是用某一具体的、浅显、熟悉的事物或情境来说明另一种抽象的、深 奥、生疏的事物或情境的一种修辞方法。
Metaphors arise from the need to clarify concepts or vividly describe objects through language As more people adopt these metaphors, they become widely popular and eventually solidify into fixed expressions These expressions often shift in meaning, with their original definitions becoming less relevant Over time, the metaphorical usage is abstracted, establishing a new fundamental meaning for the phrase, which evolves into a distinct form of language, rendering the original meaning obsolete A significant portion of idiomatic expressions originates from metaphors.
Tigers are often regarded as the king of beasts, symbolizing ferocity and strength, which is why the term "tigress" is used to describe aggressive, strong-willed women Although the literal tiger does not appear in this expression, it serves as a metaphor that conveys a deeper meaning This idiomatic expression is rooted in the reality of the tiger's existence, establishing a metaphor based on tangible characteristics, thereby highlighting the connection between the metaphorical and the actual.
这类惯用语还有：
笑面虎——比喻外貌和气善良心地凶狠毒辣的人。
美女蛇——比喻以姿色引诱他人的女人。
一条龙——比喻排的长队或能干的人物。
地头蛇——比喻在当地横行霸道、为非作歹的人。
2.4.1.2 借代法 借代法是指不直接说出所要表达的人或事物，而是借用与它有密切相关的人或事物来代替的修辞手法。借代种类包括特征代事物、具体代抽象、部分代全体、整体代部分等。使用借代法的以动物喻人的惯用语不多，主要是部分代替整体，即用事物具有代表性的部分代本体事物。 例如：
Ropes often break at their weakest points, and the master, known for his ill-fated predictions, warned that what should go well often goes wrong Indeed, misfortune struck as sales on the first day were less than half, and by the second day, the meat had lost its freshness As a result, few customers showed interest, while flies swarmed uninvited.
Unexpectedly delighted, Mr Miao, who has been using detonators for at least two years, finds himself puzzled by the challenge of setting up the stakes Despite his experience, he skillfully navigates the riverbank, managing to avoid getting his shoes wet, yet no matter how long the line is, he only catches
The term "乌鸦嘴" (crow's mouth) refers to someone who speaks ominously or makes bad predictions, while "鬼头蛤蟆眼" (toad-eyed) describes an unattractive appearance In these expressions, "头" (head) and "眼" (eyes) represent crucial aspects of a person's appearance, highlighting how specific features can symbolize the overall look.
“长相”， 因此用“鬼头蛤蟆眼” 来指代长相难看的人。
2.4.1.3 引申法 引申是指通过对某种行为方式、现象或状态的描绘， 结合生活实际而引申、推 演出新的意义——引伸义， 在实际运用中， 起作用的是惯用语的引申义。如：
The article expresses strong resentment towards those perceived as oppressors, labeling them as "reactionary watchdogs" responsible for suppressing the anti-Japanese movement and perpetrating violence against its participants.
Upon introspection, she realized that when she had to reveal her true self, the outcome was far worse than she could have imagined.
At this moment, Renault resembled a lost dog, as he called Churchill across the Channel with a mournful voice.
“我们被打败了，我们这一仗打输了!” （北京大学语料库）
Huang Huibing is known as the "Flower Picker" in the martial arts world, renowned for his unique ability to charm women He employs various tactics to get close to any woman he finds appealing, ultimately winning their affection and persuading them to willingly marry him.
In example (43), "watchdog" originally refers to a dog that guards the entrance, but it has evolved to signify individuals like bureaucrats or landlords who act as caretakers in a household The term "dog poop" in example (44) immediately evokes feelings of disgust, highlighting the negative connotation associated with the phrase.
以动物喻人惯用语的感情色彩、语体色彩及文化内涵
Idiomatic expressions are closely linked to the thoughts and emotions of ordinary people, reflecting their moral views and sentiments Like other fixed phrases, idioms can carry both positive and negative meanings; however, overall, there are fewer positive idioms Aside from a few that are positive or neutral, the majority tend to have negative connotations.
The use of animal metaphors to describe people often carries negative connotations, as these idiomatic expressions typically depict undesirable traits or behaviors in individuals.
（69）呸！ 看你们这些白狗子还能神气几天！（谭远身《渔家女》）
（70）“独眼龙”无耻地央求：“还望四哥在皇军面前， 为小弟多多美言。”
（王厚选《古城青史》）
（71）要扫除一切害人虫， 全无敌。（毛泽东词《满江红》）
In the provided example, terms like "white dog," "one-eyed dragon," and "harmful insect" carry negative connotations "White dog" specifically refers to the reactionary Kuomintang military or its soldiers, "one-eyed dragon" denotes a person who is blind in one eye, and "harmful insect" originally referred to insects that threaten humanity but now specifically identifies individuals or groups that harm the people.
The majority of idiomatic expressions that use animals as metaphors carry negative connotations Statistics reveal that out of the total number of such expressions, 162 are deemed derogatory, accounting for 83.93% of the overall collection.
While most idiomatic expressions that use animals as metaphors tend to have negative connotations, there are a few that carry positive meanings These positive idioms are relatively rare, comprising only 20 expressions, which accounts for 10.36% of the total number of animal-related idioms.
A few individuals can transform into talent scouts alongside leaders, helping to broaden their perspective in identifying talent This collaboration can break down mental barriers that hinder the selection process, correcting common issues such as bias, misjudgment, and jealousy As a result, it allows capable individuals, referred to as "thoroughbreds," to fully showcase their abilities.
Despite being bullied by everyone, it is universally acknowledged that Lao Lu is a good person, known for his hard work and steadfast dedication.
I have a deep appreciation for essays, particularly those by Lu Xun His critiques are precise, with clear distinctions between right and wrong He dedicated himself to the common people and boldly confronted the masses Throughout his life, he remained unyielding and never compromised his principles, even in the face of adversity His writing is not only beautiful but also rich in satire and profound meaning.
In the examples provided, terms like "thousand-mile horse," "old yellow ox," and "calf" carry positive connotations The "thousand-mile horse" symbolizes outstanding talent, while the "old yellow ox" represents honesty, diligence, and a selfless commitment to serving the public.
“孺子牛”比喻任劳任怨、埋头苦干，鞠躬尽瘁，为民造福的人。
Neutral idioms, particularly those that use animals as metaphors for humans, represent a small portion of common expressions, accounting for only 5.69% of the total These idioms primarily serve to objectively describe actions or situations without conveying the speaker's approval or disapproval.
（75）钢， 是不是你听人家说我是“飞鸽牌”的？ 要甩下你？ （李宏林《新岸》）
In the article, the term "飞鸽牌" (Flying Pigeon brand) originally referred to bicycles produced in Tianjin, China, but now specifically describes individuals who do not stay in one place for long The phrase "旱鸭子" (dry duck) is a metaphor for people who cannot swim and is also a neutral idiom.
The terms "Flying Pigeon" and "Dry Duck" are used without any emotional bias from the user, meaning there is no preference or aversion involved Chinese idiomatic expressions carry various emotional connotations, and when used appropriately, they can significantly enhance the richness of the language.
2.5.2 以动物比喻人惯用语的语体色彩 以动物喻人惯用语大多数来源于民间，取材于人们的生活及动物界。日常生活 是惯用语的重要来源，因此大部分以动物喻人惯用语都带有浓重的生活色彩，即具 有很强烈的口语色彩。此类惯用语大多数都含有贬义并经常在口语中使用， 因此不 能在正式的场合使用。例如：
The girl expressed her concern about local bullies, stating, "They are the local tyrants, and we are too few in number, burdened by the old and weak If it weren't for the lady's help, we would ultimately suffer greatly." Meanwhile, a character reflected on years of forgetting his father, bitterly recalling, "That man abandoned my mother—what a despicable scoundrel," before resolutely sealing his lips.
Fang Yi approached and remarked, "I can see that your endocrine systems are all malfunctioning, and you look like a bunch of blind chickens."
现代汉语以动物喻人惯用语的语用特点
2.6.1 以动物喻人惯用语的使用与语义关系
The semantic duality is a typical feature of Chinese idioms, where the superficial literal meaning represents only the external form, while the deeper implied meaning conveys the true essence of the idiom Therefore, it is essential to analyze the meanings when using idioms For example:
（80）王大妈告诉女儿：“你可不能得罪陈如芬，那是一只母老虎！”
I am not afraid of Fang Haiying, the so-called "tigress"; she may seem fierce, but she doesn't dare to take action against anyone In the examples provided, "tigress" does not literally refer to a female tiger but rather describes an aggressive woman, serving as an insult Understanding idiomatic expressions is crucial for grasping the meaning, underlying implications, and tone of sentences Therefore, it is essential to comprehend the meanings of idioms to avoid misunderstandings.
2.6.2 以动物喻人惯用语的使用与感情色彩、语体色彩的关系
Animal metaphors in idiomatic expressions carry emotional connotations, allowing speakers to clearly convey their feelings and opinions, whether positive or negative, often with a hint of sarcasm It is crucial to understand these emotional nuances to avoid confusion when using such idioms Additionally, Chinese idioms that use animals as metaphors possess varying emotional tones, and when employed appropriately, they can significantly enhance the expressive power of the language.
Animal metaphors in idiomatic expressions are characterized by their strong colloquial tone, making it essential to use them appropriately based on the context Generally, idioms with negative connotations are suitable for informal conversations but are not appropriate for formal settings.
2.6.3 以动物喻人惯用语的用法与语境的关系 学习惯用语最终的目的在于在实际交流中运用它。惯用语的运用离不开语境， 对语境的依赖程度是大家所公知的。如果说惯用语的形式结构、语义层面是属于
In the context of language, idiomatic expressions belong to a "dynamic" level of usage, as their meaning is shaped by the specific situational context in which they are employed By placing idioms within particular linguistic environments, we can clarify their precise meanings and observe their practical applications.
（男唱）：小姐呀， 不嫌相如家道贫，我愿与你 。。。
（女声）：与我什么？
（男唱）：比翼鸟成双对。
（越剧：《卓文君》）
焦氏 ：虎子心里现在打的是什么主意？他要干点什么？
花金子：不知道。
焦氏 ：你不知道， 你是他肚子里的蛔虫， 心上的．．．
（曹禺《原野》，二幕）
Captain Liang said, "There's no need to be so timid Look, it's already afternoon; if a few come, just deal with them!"
"Speak less of trivial matters; what can this place offer compared to a solid foundation? Moreover, what responsibilities are you currently burdened with?" (Li Yingru, "Wildfire Spring Breeze Fights Ancient City")
In the examples provided, idiomatic expressions appear in specific conversational contexts, allowing us to discern the meanings of phrases like "比翼鸟" (bi-winged bird), "别人肚子里的蛔虫" (the worm in someone else's belly), and "草鸡蛋" (grass chicken egg) The term "比翼鸟," originally referring to birds that fly together, metaphorically describes a harmonious and loving couple In this context, it serves as the subject of a sentence, with the predicate further clarifying its meaning as "a pair." This illustrates how idiomatic expressions can function as subjects with predicates that explain their significance within the dialogue Similarly, the expression "别人肚子里的蛔虫," which refers to someone who knows another person very well, maintains its overall meaning even when the term "别人" (others) is omitted in specific contexts.
2.6.4 以动物喻人惯用语的用法
Idiomatic expressions are characterized by their fixed nature, as they belong to a family of established phrases with relatively stable structures Typically, we cannot arbitrarily add, remove, or replace elements within these expressions For instance, altering "笑面虎" to "笑面的老虎" strips it of its metaphorical meaning and disqualifies it as an idiom Similarly, changing "狗掀门帘" to "狗掀上门帘" or "狗掀窗帘" eliminates its dual significance, causing the phrase to lose its status as an idiomatic expression.
The flexibility of idiomatic expressions lies in their fixed structure, which allows for some degree of variation during usage These expressions can accommodate additional elements or undergo changes in word order, demonstrating their adaptability in language.
Consider whether it is wise to label someone as foolish; after all, a bird that has escaped from its cage would never willingly return.
In the presence of Hu Taiyin, one can initially rely on him as a shield against adversity; if he fails to provide that protection, he may still serve as a scapegoat.
Xin Shan, accompanied by his wife, Ruan, and their twelve-year-old daughter, joined the throngs of refugees, hastily carrying their belongings They moved with a frantic urgency, resembling lost dogs and fish escaping from a net.
The military forces in Zhangjiakou, Xinbaoan, Huailai, and the surrounding areas, including Beiping, Tianjin, Tangjie, and Tangshan, exhibit a generally poor morale, with only a few divisions, such as those from the 35th, 62nd, and 94th armies, showing any significant combat effectiveness while relying on fortifications Overall, these troops have become excessively fearful, particularly after your entry into the region.
研究结果在汉语教学中的应用
越南学生使用汉语以动物喻人惯用语的偏误成因分析
ong chăm chỉ ”、“con ong hút mật hoa”, 把“如果他不是只采花蜂就好了”翻译成
Nếu anh ấy không phải là một con ong chăm chỉ, cũng không sao; nếu anh ấy không phải là con ong chuyên hút mật hoa, thì cũng tốt Những từ khác có thể dùng để miêu tả anh ấy bao gồm "kẻ ong bướm", "kẻ trăng hoa", hay "kẻ hay trêu hoa ghẹo nguyệt".
Tỷ lệ sai cao nhất là ở từ “đêm muộn” với 10.5% Một số ít sinh viên đã hiểu sai nghĩa của “đêm muộn” và dịch thành “người chăm chỉ” hoặc “con ong chăm chỉ” Tuy nhiên, phần lớn sinh viên đã hiểu đúng và dịch là “kẻ hay chơi đêm”, “con mèo hoang” hoặc “kẻ ăn sương”.
“giống loài mèo đêm”、“con cú đêm”、“người làm việc về đêm”等。
Tỷ lệ không trả lời cao nhất thuộc về cụm từ "替罪羊", chiếm 25,3% Phần lớn sinh viên đã dịch đúng, chuyển "替罪羊" thành "bia đỡ đạn", "vật thế mạng", "vật thế thân", "vật hiến tế" hoặc áp dụng phương pháp dịch nghĩa khi dịch "替罪羊".
In summary, students demonstrate a strong proficiency in translating idiomatic expressions, effectively identifying corresponding Vietnamese fixed phrases This approach not only simplifies the translation process by eliminating the need to explain the meanings of idioms but also preserves the rich cultural significance of the translated sentences Additionally, an analysis of the causes of errors among Vietnamese students when using modern Chinese idiomatic expressions that employ animal metaphors reveals important insights.
3.2.1 越南学生使用汉语以动物喻人惯用语的语义偏误分析 经过调查结果分析，我们可以知道越南学生使用汉语惯用语以动物喻人惯用语 偏误成的成因所在。归根结底有一下几个原因：
Idiomatic expressions should not be understood solely based on their literal meanings, as these meanings only represent their origins Once an expression becomes idiomatic, its literal interpretation loses significance, and its actual meaning is derived from metaphorical and extended interpretations For instance, using animals to describe people primarily conveys metaphorical meanings Research indicates that most students struggle to identify the correct meanings of idioms, often interpreting them literally, such as misunderstanding "落水狗" (a drowning dog) as a dog in water, "摇鹅毛扇" (shaking a goose feather fan) as merely shaking a fan made of goose feathers, or "三脚猫" (a three-legged cat) as a cat with only three legs.
Understanding the metaphorical meanings of idiomatic expressions that use animals to represent humans can be challenging for students, as these meanings cannot be easily interpreted from their literal definitions.
One common mistake students make when using idiomatic expressions is misunderstanding their emotional connotations This challenge is particularly significant for Vietnamese students, who often confuse the meanings of these phrases While many students answer correctly, a substantial number misinterpret negative idioms as neutral or positive For instance, the expression "多嘴驴" (literally "talkative donkey"), which carries a derogatory meaning, is mistakenly perceived as neutral by 31.2% of students Understanding the emotional nuances of idioms is crucial for effective communication.
也有 3.5% 的人理解为是褒义的。“小白兔”， 比喻温顺善良的人， 含褒义，但 18.9% 的学生误解它的感情色彩， 理解为中性义或贬义等。
3.2.2 越南学生使用现代汉语以动物喻人惯用语的句法偏误分析 （一）不清楚惯用语的句法功能
One common reason students make mistakes when using idiomatic expressions is their lack of understanding of the syntactic functions these expressions serve in sentences Research indicates that among the six exercises I designed, Exercise Three had the highest error rate This exercise specifically aimed to assess students' grasp of the syntactic roles of idiomatic expressions The primary errors students made during this exercise stemmed from their uncertainty about the grammatical components that idiomatic expressions can fulfill in a sentence, such as in the case of "马大哈."
Chinese idioms such as "beautiful snake," "frog at the bottom of the well," "one-eyed dragon," and "big-eyed monkey" typically function as subjects, objects, or attributive modifiers in sentences However, many students misunderstand their grammatical roles, mistakenly believing these idioms can serve as predicates or adverbials Additionally, while some may recognize that these expressions can act as subjects, they often overlook their potential to function as attributive modifiers or objects as well.
The phrase "鬼头蛤蟆眼" can only function as an adverbial or a complement in a sentence, yet 75.8% of students incorrectly believed it could serve as a subject or an attribute, with only 10.5% answering correctly Similarly, "一窝蜂" is limited to functioning as a predicate or adverbial, but 33.7% of students mistakenly thought it could act as a subject, attribute, or object The expression "当乌龟" is restricted to being a predicate, yet 61.0% of students believed it could serve as an attribute or complement The high percentage of incorrect answers indicates that understanding the syntactic functions of idiomatic expressions poses a significant challenge for students, contributing to the frequent errors they make when using these phrases.
Understanding the flexible structure of idiomatic expressions is crucial for effective language use As previously mentioned, idioms that use animals as metaphors exhibit both fixed and adaptable characteristics Therefore, in Exercise Five, I provide various idiomatic expressions along with their practical applications, aiming to help students evaluate and comprehend these expressions in context.
The accuracy of idiomatic expressions used by students indicates their understanding of these phrases in practical contexts However, a recent survey revealed that the error rate in Exercise Five was alarmingly high, reaching up to 67.4% This significant percentage of mistakes can be attributed to students' lack of familiarity with the flexible nature of idiomatic expressions For instance, the original structure of "吹牛皮" (to brag) can be altered in sentences, allowing for variations such as "吹破了牛皮" or "他的牛皮比天吹得还大." Due to their unfamiliarity with this flexibility, 67.4% of students incorrectly identified "他的牛皮比天吹得还大" as a misuse of the idiom.
汉语以动物喻人惯用语教学的建议
Based on an investigation into the current use of animal metaphors in Chinese by Vietnamese students and an analysis of the causes of errors, I would like to propose several suggestions regarding teachers, students, teaching materials, and dictionary compilation.
3.3.1 对老师教学法的建议
The effectiveness of teaching Chinese idioms largely depends on the teaching methods employed by Chinese language instructors To enhance learning outcomes, teachers should adopt tailored approaches that cater to the diverse needs of their students Here are some valuable suggestions for Chinese teachers on effectively teaching idiomatic expressions.
（一） 日常教学引入惯用语
Idiomatic expressions are commonly used in everyday conversation, making them frequent in communication However, formal Chinese language curricula in Vietnamese universities do not systematically include idiomatic expression instruction My research indicates that none of the comprehensive Chinese teaching materials designed for Vietnamese students incorporate idiomatic expressions If teachers do not address this gap in the classroom, students will lack essential knowledge of Chinese idioms Therefore, it is crucial for teachers to introduce idiomatic expressions appropriately in daily lessons to help students understand their meanings and usage.
（二）引导学生从整体上把握惯用语的意思
A survey revealed that Vietnamese university students often misinterpret idiomatic expressions by taking their literal meanings at face value, such as understanding "小白兔" (little white rabbit) as merely "a small and white rabbit" and "三脚猫" (three-legged cat) as "a cat with only three legs." Idioms should not be understood literally, as their actual meanings are metaphorical and derived from their literal origins Therefore, in teaching Chinese idioms, educators should emphasize this distinction and guide students to make connections from the literal to the deeper meanings, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of idioms through sustained practice.
（三）有选择地教授惯用语
In teaching Chinese idioms, it's essential to selectively introduce those that are vibrant, widely applicable, and frequently used, while avoiding dialect-heavy, vulgar, outdated, or overly trendy expressions Dialect-heavy idioms tend to have low usage rates, while vulgar phrases can alienate listeners and hinder effective communication Outdated idioms gradually fade away over time, lacking vitality, and trendy expressions often lack deep cultural significance and are short-lived Therefore, educators must carefully choose which idioms to teach, focusing on those that will enrich students' language skills and communication.
（四）采取比较教学法
Similar to Chinese, Vietnamese also contains numerous animal metaphors used to describe people; however, the structural, semantic, usage, and cultural characteristics of these metaphors differ significantly between the two languages Students learning Chinese will undoubtedly face challenges, so employing a comparative approach when teaching idiomatic expressions can help address these difficulties By highlighting the similarities and differences through comparison, students can deepen their understanding of idioms and retain a lasting impression Particularly in terms of cultural connotations, analyzing which animals are commonly used to symbolize certain people and the differences in metaphorical meanings between Chinese and Vietnamese cultures can provide insights into the attitudes and cognitive characteristics of the people from both countries towards the animal kingdom.
（五）设置具体语境
The ultimate goal of teaching Chinese idiomatic expressions is to enhance students' communicative competence, making it essential that the instructional content is grounded in a communicative context Teachers can create scenarios where students use idioms in conversation by providing them with a selection of idiomatic expressions and asking them to choose the appropriate ones based on the context It is crucial for teachers to offer a rich language environment while encouraging students to actively use idioms and promptly correct any errors By practicing idioms within specific contexts, students can grasp their meanings and practical applications To create a more comprehensive context, educators should provide dialogue examples rather than isolated sentences, as dialogue offers richer content and a clearer representation of the communicative setting This method not only illustrates the grammatical roles of idioms within sentences but also significantly aids students in mastering their usage Ultimately, the contextual approach is an effective strategy for learning idioms, enabling students to retain what they learn in class and understand the specific applications of idiomatic expressions.
Phương pháp thẩm thấu văn hóa là cần thiết trong việc giảng dạy tiếng Trung cho sinh viên Việt Nam, do sự khác biệt về văn hóa, cách tư duy, thẩm mỹ, giá trị và phong tục tập quán giữa hai quốc gia Giáo viên nên tích hợp nội dung văn hóa vào bài giảng, sử dụng văn hóa truyền thống Trung Quốc để giải thích các thành ngữ, đồng thời thực hiện phân tích so sánh văn hóa giữa Trung Quốc và Việt Nam Việc so sánh các hình ảnh và ý nghĩa văn hóa là một cách hiệu quả để chỉ ra sự khác biệt Ví dụ, trong tiếng Trung, "井底蛙" (con ếch ngồi đáy giếng) chỉ người có tầm nhìn hạn hẹp, tương ứng với "ếch ngồi đáy giếng" trong tiếng Việt Hay như "笼中鸟" (chim trong lồng) chỉ người bị gò bó, tương ứng với thành ngữ "cá chậu chim lồng" trong tiếng Việt.
Trong tiếng Trung, từ "寄生虫" mang ý nghĩa tiêu cực, ám chỉ những người có khả năng lao động nhưng không chịu làm việc, sống dựa vào sự khai thác người khác Tương tự, trong tiếng Việt, có cụm từ "kí sinh trùng" với ý nghĩa tương đồng.
Trong tiếng Trung và tiếng Việt, có sự tương đồng trong việc sử dụng hình ảnh động vật để so sánh con người, nhưng ý nghĩa lại khác nhau Ví dụ, trong tiếng Trung, cụm từ "老蟹" ám chỉ một người phụ nữ giàu mưu mẹo hoặc không chính trực, "没脚蟹" chỉ người không có khả năng hoạt động, "独脚蟹" biểu thị cho người cô đơn và yếu đuối, còn "软脚蟹" mô tả người thiếu năng lực hoặc nhút nhát Ngược lại, trong tiếng Việt, từ "ngang như cua" dùng để chỉ một người có tính cách cứng đầu, trong khi hình ảnh con rùa lại biểu trưng cho sự trường thọ.
征 同时也是动作缓慢， 迟迟不进的代表动物， 因此在越南语的“chậm như rùa”,
In Chinese culture, the term "乌龟" (turtle) is often used to describe individuals who are slow or lagging behind, but it can also refer to unfaithful spouses Similarly, the animal "羊" (sheep) symbolizes gentleness and kindness in the language.
Trong tiếng Việt, hình ảnh con dê thường mang ý nghĩa tiêu cực, được dùng để chỉ những người đàn ông tham lam, thích sắc dục, như trong các cụm từ "con dê già" hay "con dê cụ" Trong khi đó, "小绵羊" được dùng để chỉ những người hiền lành, ngoan ngoãn, còn "替罪羊" lại ám chỉ những người phải gánh chịu tội lỗi thay cho người khác.
Trong tiếng Hán và tiếng Việt, có những cách diễn đạt tương tự sử dụng hình ảnh động vật để ám chỉ con người, nhưng hình ảnh lại khác nhau Chẳng hạn, cả hai ngôn ngữ đều mô tả người ướt sũng bằng hình ảnh động vật, nhưng trong tiếng Hán, người ta dùng "gà" với thành ngữ "落汤鸡", còn tiếng Việt lại dùng "chuột" với cụm từ "ướt như chuột lột" Tương tự, thành ngữ "马蜂窝" trong tiếng Hán ám chỉ người khó đối phó, còn tiếng Việt lại dùng hình ảnh "tổ kiến lửa" Cụm từ "狗头军师" trong tiếng Hán chỉ người thiếu khôn ngoan nhưng thường đưa ra ý kiến, thì trong tiếng Việt tương đương với "quân sư quạt mo" Như vậy, hình ảnh "狗头" trong tiếng Hán đã được thay thế bằng "quạt mo" trong tiếng Việt.
Ngoài những điều đã đề cập, trong tiếng Trung chỉ sử dụng một loại động vật để làm hình ảnh ẩn dụ, trong khi tiếng Việt có thể sử dụng nhiều loại động vật khác nhau Ví dụ, thành ngữ tiếng Trung "穿兔子鞋" (chạy nhanh như thỏ) được sử dụng để chỉ người chạy nhanh, trong khi tiếng Việt thường dùng "nhanh như sóc" hoặc "nhanh như cắt" để mô tả hành động nhanh nhẹn Tương tự, trong tiếng Việt, người ta thường nói "ngu như lợn" hoặc "dốt như bò" để chỉ những người ngu dốt, trong khi trong tiếng Trung chỉ có thành ngữ "拱槽猪" (lợn húp máng) để diễn tả sự ngu ngốc.
When teachers introduce idiomatic expressions that reflect traditional Chinese culture, they should purposefully integrate these phrases into their lessons This approach not only enhances student engagement but also aids in a deeper understanding of word meanings By doing so, students can quickly grasp the essence of Chinese culture and shift their perspectives on different cultures.