Nghiên cứu về các thành ngữ tiếng anh có từ chỉ thời tiết và những tương đương trong tiếng việt

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING PHENIKAA UNIVERSITY GRADUATION PAPER AN INVESTIGATION INTO ENGLISH IDIOMS WITH WORDS DENOTING WEATHER AND THEIR VIETNAMESE EQUIVALENTS Student: Ngo Thi Hao Student ID No: 19010274 Course: 2019 - 2023 Field: English Language Mode of study: Full-time Supervisor: Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy, Ph.D Ha Noi – 2023 MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING PHENIKAA UNIVERSITY GRADUATION PAPER AN INVESTIGATION INTO ENGLISH IDIOMS WITH WORDS DENOTING WEATHER AND THEIR VIETNAMESE EQUIVALENTS (NGHIÊN CỨU VỀ CÁC THÀNH NGỮ TIẾNG ANH CÓ TỪ CHỈ THỜI TIẾT VÀ NHỮNG TƯƠNG ĐƯƠNG TRONG TIẾNG VIỆT) Student: Ngo Thi Hao Student ID No: 19010274 Course: 2019 - 2023 Field: English Language Mode of study: Full-time Supervisor: Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy, Ph.D Ha Noi – 2023 iii ABSTRACT Idioms are commonly employed in daily communication, both in the English language and in other languages spoken around the world This study investigated the meanings of idioms related to weather in English and Vietnamese Through analyzing a list of such idioms, the study would identify cultural and grammatical factors that influence the use and interpretation of words denoting weather in both languages The findings would shed light on the similarities and differences between the two languages, and their impact on bilingual communication The study highlighted the intricate relationship between language and culture, and how they have shaped our perception of the world iv 44 Hao and Long [18] pointed out that these differences in style may be attributed to each culture's view of language as a means of communication In English-speaking cultures, poetic language is often celebrated for its ability to evoke rich imagery and emotions Conversely, in Vietnamese culture, language tends to be viewed more functionally as a straightforward means of conveying a message English and Vietnamese idioms with words denoting weather may have some similarities but also some differences, due to the different cultures and languages from which they originate A comparison of the two reveals several distinctions: Firstly, words denoting weather in English and Vietnamese may differ due to the different weather patterns in each culture's geographic region, as well as the different cultural associations and beliefs related to each weather phenomenon For example, in English culture, “rain” is often associated with sadness or gloominess, whereas in Vietnamese culture, “rain” is typically seen as a positive thing that nourishes crops and brings prosperity Similarly, in English culture, cold or snowy weather is often associated with despair, loneliness, and isolation, whereas in Vietnamese culture, snow is not a common phenomenon, and winter is usually a time of year associated with Lunar New Year festivities and joyful reunions For example, the English idiom “like a dying duck in a thunderstorm” and the Vietnamese idiom “chán ngắt chán ngơ” are similar in that they both express a sense of hopelessness or helplessness in a difficult situation However, the English idiom “like a dying duck in a thunderstorm” may be more familiar to speakers of English who are familiar with the image of a duck struggling to survive in a storm On the other hand, the Vietnamese idiom “chán ngắt chán ngơ” is rooted in Vietnamese culture and may be more familiar to Vietnamese speakers as a common expression used to describe the feeling of frustration or boredom that comes from a tedious or repetitive task The English idiom “wet behind the ears” and the Vietnamese idiom “chưa máu đầu” literally means “still wet and bleeding on the head”, both idioms reflect cultural values and attitudes towards youthfulness and experience In English, the phrase is often used to describe someone who is younger or less experienced than 45 others, suggesting that they need more time to learn and mature However, there may be cultural differences in the way that youth and inexperience are perceived In Western cultures, youth is often seen as an asset or a source of innovation and creativity Younger people may be seen as having fresh ideas and perspectives, and they may be encouraged to take risks and explore new opportunities Or another example, the idiom “the rough edge of your tongue” and “giết người không dao”, it is used to describe someone who speaks in a cutting or hurtful way, similar to the English idiom There are two faces in one coin, there may be cultural differences in the way that people respond to sharp or hurtful words In Vietnamese culture, it is often seen as important to maintain harmony in social relationships, so people may be more likely to avoid direct confrontation or criticism On the other hand, in some Western cultures, a more direct or confrontational communication style may be valued as a way to resolve conflicts and solve problems Secondly, cultural contexts may also influence the types of idioms that are used in each language For example, English idioms may reflect the historical and literary traditions of English-speaking countries, including the Bible and Shakespeare, as well as popular sayings and proverbs Vietnamese idioms may reflect the rich history and cultural diversity of Vietnam, as well as the importance of family, community, and social harmony This means that idioms used in one language may not translate easily or accurately into the other language, due to differences in cultural background and context For example, the English idiom “a rough diamond” may be more familiar to speakers of English who are familiar with Western culture and its values of individualism and self-determination The idiom highlights the idea that the true potential of an individual may not be immediately apparent, and that people should not be judged based on appearances alone The Vietnamese idiom “ngọc cịn ẩn bóng tùng” reflects the cultural and historical significance of jade in Vietnam, where it has traditionally been valued for its beauty, rarity, and spiritual properties Another example, the idiom “fine feathers” may be more familiar to speakers of 46 English who are familiar with English literature or historical fashion trends The idiom has been used in English for centuries, and the phrase 'fine feathers' conjures up images of wealthy and fashionable people in the past On the other hand, the Vietnamese idiom “người đẹp lụa” reflects the cultural significance of silk in Vietnam Silk has traditionally been a prized material in Vietnamese clothing, representing beauty, elegance, and grace As a result, the idiom “người đẹp lụa” highlights the importance of clothing and fashion in Vietnamese culture Finally, according to Wang [19], the context in which idioms with words denoting weather are used can differ across the two cultures For example, in English, the phrase “a rainy day” can refer to a piece of luck overcoming a difficult situation or hardship, whereas in Vietnamese, a similar idiom such as “năng nhặt chặt bị”, it means if we were diligent, it could be successfully coming is used in a more positive and optimistic context For instance, the English idiom “pour cold water on” is used to describe someone who discourages or undermines enthusiasm or excitement about something It implies a sense of negativity or skepticism about the thing being discussed The Vietnamese idiom “giội gáo nước lạnh” has a similar meaning, implying that someone is dampening or throwing cold water on a situation There may be cultural differences, however, in the way that negativity and pessimism are perceived In Western cultures, positivity and optimism are often valued as important qualities for success and happiness People may be encouraged to look on the bright side of things and to maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity In contrast, in many Eastern cultures, including Vietnam, the emphasis may be more on accepting and enduring difficult situations with a stoic attitude There may be less emphasis on positivity and more emphasis on practical realism Another example, the English idiom “hail-fellow-well-met” and their Vietnamese equivalent “nhịn miệng đãi khách” are both used to describe someone who is friendly, sociable, and good-natured in their interactions with others However, unlike “hail-fellow-well-met,” this expression does not necessarily connote insincerity, and can instead emphasize the importance of hospitality and politeness 47 in Vietnamese culture In conclusion, while English and Vietnamese idioms with words denoting weather may share some similarities, such as their vividness and expressiveness, they may differ in terms of the words and phrases used, the cultural contexts and associations, and the grammar and syntax employed Regardless of these differences, however, idioms continue to be an important part of each language's vivid and expressive vocabulary Understanding these differences can enrich one's appreciation of each language, and can also enhance one's ability to communicate effectively in both English and Vietnamese 3.3 The application of the study in practice In addition to providing us with a glimpse into the grammar of idioms, our analysis has also given us valuable insights into the cultural and linguistic contexts in which these expressions are commonly used According to Trao [20], while some idioms share similar meanings and connotations across English and Vietnamese, others reveal stark differences in how words related to weather are used as metaphors in each language This highlights the unique ways in which culture and language intersect to create different modes of expression By taking the time to study and compare these idiomatic expressions, we can deepen our appreciation for the diverse cultures and ways of thinking that exist in the world Moreover, this type of cross-cultural analysis can be especially valuable for those who engage in cross-linguistic communication on a regular basis, such as translators, language teachers, diplomats, and business people Through the study of idioms, we not only gain a deeper understanding of language, but also of the values, beliefs, and customs that shape different societies This can serve as a bridge between different cultures, facilitating greater understanding and communication across linguistic and cultural barriers In this way, by studying idioms and gaining insights into their cultural and linguistic contexts, we can participate in the enrichment and expansion of both ourselves and our societies 48 3.4 Expectations with the study This paper is expected to synthesize a comprehensive list of English idioms with words denoting weather from “The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms: second edition” [2] and compare them to their Vietnamese equivalents from “Tu dien ngu va tuc ngu Viet Nam,” [3] providing a valuable resource for both English and Vietnamese learners The study is to address important inquiries concerning the use of idiomatic expressions in different cultures and languages and provide a deeper understanding of how the two are interrelated By investigating these key aspects, the study can play a crucial role in enhancing the teaching and learning of the English language, cultivating cross-cultural understanding, and facilitating effective communication 3.4.1 Outcomes of the study English idioms with words denoting weather can occupy a variety of grammatical roles within a sentence, including the subject, object, complement, adverb, adjective, or predicate This flexibility facilitates easy understanding and effective communication Through the diverse positions that a word denoting weather can take within a sentence, speakers can imbue their writing with uniqueness, expressiveness, and nuance, thereby adding diversity to their language, and enhancing its descriptive power Through comparison, the study can highlight the diverse ways that idiomatic expressions are used in different cultures This exploration will provide insights into how to use these idiomatic expressions more fluently and accurately, avoiding embarrassing situations and unexpected mistakes By providing insights into how idiomatic expressions are used in context, the study can help learners avoid miscommunication and use idioms more confidently The study of idiomatic expressions with weather-related words can be a valuable resource for English and Vietnamese language learners, contributing to their crosscultural competence and awareness Through an analysis of idiomatic expressions provides insight into the unique ways that cultures use language to convey ideas related to weather, promoting cultural sensitivity, mutual understanding, and 49 effective communication across diverse backgrounds To sum up, the study sheds light on the relationship between language and culture in the context of words denoting weather expressions, opening new avenues of research in the field The use of idioms and metaphors is deeply rooted in culture and history, and exploring this relationship can reveal fascinating insights into how people use language to share their experiences and emotions related to the weather This study can also contribute to the broader field of linguistic and cultural studies, advancing our understanding of how language and culture are interwoven 3.4.2 Contribution to the field This study can make significant contributions to the field of language studies by providing a valuable resource for the analysis of idiomatic expressions with words denoting weather The study explores the cultural and linguistic differences between the two languages, resulting in a deeper understanding of the relationship between language and culture The study's findings can also contribute to English language learning by providing English learners with a comprehensive list of idiomatic expressions with words denoting weather and their Vietnamese equivalents By analyzing the context, structure, and meaning of these expressions, the paper can enable learners to use idioms more fluently and appropriately in different settings, increasing their communicative competence in cross-cultural communication Additionally, the study sheds light on the challenges that language learners face when trying to understand and use idioms in cross-cultural contexts It has significant implications for English and Vietnamese language learning by providing learners with insights into the unique usage of idioms with words denoting weather expressions in English This knowledge can enhance their communication with English speakers and contribute to a deeper appreciation for the diversity in language and cultural backgrounds Ultimately, the contributions of this research extend beyond language learning to broader questions of intercultural communication and cultural empathy By 50 shedding light on the distinct usage of weather-related idiomatic expressions in different cultures, this research invites us to think critically about how we communicate across linguistic and cultural boundaries By fostering greater empathy and respect for diverse perspectives, this research can contribute to a more harmonious and interconnected global community To sum up, the study articulates the contribution research will make to existing society, grammatical and culture This study adds to the field of knowledge and how it will contribute to future research in this area 3.5 Summary This chapter delves into the interrelationship of the English and Vietnamese languages, highlighting the similarities and differences in their respective cultures In addition, it also serves as a valuable tool for people currently studying English and Vietnamese, providing useful information to facilitate the research and learning process Through this exploration, readers can gain a broad perspective on the language and cultural context during which these idioms are used 51 CONCLUSION This study explored idioms with words denoting weather in “The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms” [2] and “Tu dien ngu va tuc ngu Viet Nam” [3] The sources revealed a range of weather idioms in both languages, highlighting linguistic and cultural differences Thereby, the study provided valuable insights into weather idioms in English and Vietnamese, contributing to a deeper understanding of both languages and cultures Conclusion of the study 1.1 General conclusion of the study The theme of this investigation was to explore English idioms that use idioms with words denoting weather and their equivalents in Vietnamese In order to this, the study synthesized all of the idioms that use words denoting weather in “The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms: second edition” [2] and compared them to equivalent idioms in “Tu dien ngu va tuc ngu Viet Nam” [3] As a result of this investigation, this study was able to gather a very useful collection of idioms that foreign language learners and Vietnamese and English learners in particular can benefit from Furthermore, the synthesis process has discovered a large number of new idioms, not just in general, but also those specifically related to weather words The investigation identified various idioms that utilize terms such as rain, wind, sunshine, etc This process has given the reader a new perspective on these idioms and has helped to develop a deeper appreciation for the study of idioms in general Additionally, the study has been exposed to many new idioms in our mother tongue, which has been an interesting and enlightening experience 1.2 Features of syntax This study revealed the impressive versatility of English idiomatic expressions that use words denoting weather, particularly in their grammatical functions Unlike other fixed expressions, these idioms have a broader range of usage and structure 52 Idioms that use words denoting weather can serve various grammatical roles, such as the subject, object, complement, adverb, or adjective within a sentence They can be applied to different grammatical structures without losing their figurative meaning or creating confusion This flexibility allows for the expression of intricate ideas and adds depth and complexity to language comprehension As a result, English idiomatic expressions that include words denoting weather are a rich source of expression for English speakers, providing an immense opportunity to infuse language with metaphorical and flavorful language This study highlights the importance of understanding the flexibility and usage of idiomatic expressions in all languages, which can provide a deeper appreciation for the rich linguistic resources available to us 1.3 Features of culture English idioms can be difficult to translate into other languages because of their cultural idiosyncrasies To accurately understand and use them, English learners need practice and exposure to native speakers and an understanding of the cultural nuances behind the idioms When comparing English and Vietnamese idioms weather, both languages utilize vivid imagery, figurative language, and expressive syntax to convey meanings, but substantial differences also exist On the other hand, language is influenced and shaped by culture; it reflects the culture of the area Hao and Long [18] also referred to an idiom as a distinctive form of language that has a fixed meaning and structure and is deeply embedded with cultural connotations Each idiom is formed in a specific historical period and passed down from generation to generation, bearing unique cultural elements such as natural environment, religion, customs, habits, and beliefs In many ways, idioms serve as a powerful reflection of cultural values, attitudes, and perspectives In essence, idioms are a powerful representation of the complex interplay between language and culture Both language and culture are closely intertwined, and idioms are no exception They serve as a vital tool for representing and transmitting 53 cultural information, as they are often used to express ideas and feelings that cannot be readily conveyed through literal language alone Idioms with words denoting weather possess a unique charm and appeal, as they are able to convey profound meanings and sentiments through seemingly ordinary language The cultural connotations embedded within idioms can reveal important insights into the ways in which community members relate to one another, understand their environment, and interpret the world around them However, distinctions can be seen in the words and phrases that are used, as well as the cultural contexts and associations that shape the meaning and use of idioms In the case of English, idiomatic expressions may incorporate a broad range of words denoting weather and phrases, often using personification and humor to convey their meaning In contrast, Vietnamese idioms tend to utilize more concrete and specific phrases that directly describe weather patterns and natural phenomena Furthermore, the study of idioms with words denoting weather is not simply an academic exercise, but rather an essential aspect of effective communication in both English and Vietnamese Cultural elements are sacred and important in every culture, and idioms are one of the many ways in which these cultural elements are expressed They can convey rich meanings and communicate cultural values and perspectives If you can use idioms correctly in communication, you will always be able to attract the attention of native speakers and gain their sympathy In this way, these idioms play an important role in connecting people from different cultures and facilitating understanding and mutual respect To sum up, through this study, the synthesis of idioms from two highly-regarded sources has been an incredibly valuable component of this study It has provided us with authentic and reliable meanings of idioms, while also opening our eyes to the rich and fascinating world of idioms with weather words Through this synthesis, we have gained a greater appreciation for the nuances of language and the important role that idioms play in bridging the gap between different cultures 54 Significance of the study By exploring English idioms with words denoting weather from “The Oxford dictionary of idioms: second edition” [2] and comparing them to equivalent Vietnamese idioms from “Từ điển thành ngữ tục ngữ Việt Nam,” [3] this paper aims to provide a comprehensive resource for language learners These two trusted sources, published by OUP and LPH, respectively, can help foreign language learners and English and Vietnamese learners in particular understand how to use these idioms more fluidly and accurately This can help learners to avoid awkward situations and unexpected mistakes while communicating in English The research results on English idioms with words denoting weather and their Vietnamese equivalents would involve identifying and compiling a list of English idioms that use words denoting weather such as “clear the decks” or “blow hot and cold” and providing their corresponding meanings in both English and Vietnamese The research aims to help English language learners better understand and use these idioms in context, as well as make connections between the figurative language used in English and their native language It may also help illuminate differences and similarities between the cultures and languages in question 2.1 Significance for society The weather has been a significant part of human life since civilization began The research into English idioms that have words denoting weather can provide insights into how different cultures and societies perceive and interpret various weather conditions The insights gained from your research can, therefore, contribute to an understanding of cultural beliefs and practices associated with different weather conditions Moreover, idioms can be a rich source of cultural knowledge, reflecting the values, beliefs, and mindsets of people across the world A significant aspect of language learning involves mastering idiomatic expressions English contains a vast number of idioms, and those with words denoting weather can be particularly challenging for learners to comprehend The 55 study could provide a platform that helps learners understand and memorize these idioms proficiently This can significantly enhance language communicative competence and help us converse fluently in English 2.2 Significance for learners The insights gained from the research of English idioms that have words denoting weather and their Vietnamese equivalents can be applied in English language teaching curricula Incorporating language-specific idioms in teaching materials and activities can make the learning process a more fun and engaging experience It can also help students to comprehend and memorize idiomatic expressions in context while broadening their knowledge of language and culture This can enable students to develop the ability to communicate effectively across cultures, enhancing their communicative competence in English For Vietnamese people who learn English as a second language, exploring English idioms that contain words denoting weather and their Vietnamese equivalents can play a crucial role in promoting language acquisition and cross-cultural awareness Vietnamese learners of English may face difficulties in understanding idiomatic expressions and the cultural differences embedded in them By providing a comprehensive analysis of these idioms, your research can help Vietnamese learners of English to develop an appreciation of the nuanced differences in English language use and make the language learning process more straightforward For students of the English Faculty, the study scope of exploring English idioms that have words denoting weather and their Vietnamese equivalents can have a significant impact on their language learning journey By identifying idiomatic expressions that students may encounter in their future professional communication, the research can equip them with the language skills necessary for their careers 56 Limitation of the study Idioms are a rich cultural heritage of every nation, accumulated over centuries Each nation has its unique way of expressing these idioms, making it a challenge to fully understand and use them, especially in the second language Therefore, a three-month study period may not be sufficient to thoroughly uncover and compare idioms with words denoting weather in English and their Vietnamese equivalents While this study has compiled a list of English idioms, there has been limited direct exposure to English-speaking cultures, inevitably leading to unnecessary mistakes when reference these idioms in Vietnamese In addition, due to limited my knowledge, there may be unworthy shortcomings in the study Suggestions for future research The study of idioms or idioms with words denoting weather is an incredibly captivating subject, and it becomes even more alluring when examining the cultural dimensions associated with them The study was to establish a groundwork that would aid future researchers in further developing and delving into the cultural aspects of idioms Thereby, future researchers are able to witness the immense richness and extraordinary beauty that reside within the beliefs and cultures of these two distinct societies throughout these idioms Summary This section provides a concise overview of the findings derived from the research It summarizes the similarities and differences between the two cultures using English idioms with words denoting weather and their Vietnamese equivalents In addition, it also highlights the flexibility of syntax in practical usage On the other hand, the study bears immense significance for individuals undertaking English and Vietnamese language learning, as it offers valuable insights to facilitate a more conducive research and learning experience 57 REFERENCES [1] Gibbs, R.W, “What idioms really mean?”, 2rd, Journal of Memory and Language, University of California, Vol 31, pp 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