It consists of definitions ofidioms, some features and some types of idioms, the relationship between idiom andculture, and the differences between idioms and proverbs.Chapter 3: The stu
INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the study
English is the most widely spoken language globally, leading to its study in Vietnam In English classes, we explore various aspects of the language, particularly idioms, which vividly reflect a country's customs and history These idiomatic expressions enhance both written and spoken communication, making our observations and explanations more engaging They serve an aesthetic function, allowing us to convey complex ideas succinctly For instance, to describe someone as exceptionally beautiful, English speakers might say they are "as beautiful as a rainbow" or "as beautiful as a sunset."
In Vietnamese, the idiom "béo như con cun cút" translates to "as fat as a partridge," highlighting cultural differences in expressions related to body size This raises intriguing questions about the variations in comparative idioms between English and Vietnamese, particularly in how each language describes individuals Understanding these differences can provide deeper insights into cultural perspectives on body image and language.
Many linguists and scholars, including Peter Howard, Xuan Ba, Tran Thanh Son, and Nguyen Dinh Hung, are actively researching English idioms and compiling lists with usage examples However, there is a noticeable lack of discussion regarding the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese idioms Most of their work focuses on providing lists of idioms without offering explanations or comparative analysis, particularly concerning idiomatic expressions in Vietnamese.
As an English student, I have observed that many learners rely on non-idiomatic expressions, resulting in missed opportunities for effective communication, especially with foreigners The limited use of idioms in both speech and writing hinders their ability to convey ideas more vividly By intentionally incorporating idioms into their communication, students can significantly enhance their expressiveness and overall effectiveness in English.
I have chosen to study "Comparative Idioms in English and Vietnamese" to enhance English students' understanding of idiomatic expressions This analysis explores idioms within various contexts and situations, highlighting the richness and diversity of English idioms, especially those related to human experiences.
As a result, in this small-scale analysis, I only compare and contrast idioms about appearance, character, mental state, and health status with Vietnamese idioms.
Aims of the study
- Provide English learners with an amount of knowledge related to English and Vietnamese comparison idioms.
- Identify the similarities as well as differences in comparative idioms in both English and Vietnamese.
- Give suggestions to improve the learning and teaching of English idioms.
Research questions
There are three research questions for the study:
1/ What are comparison idioms like in both English and Vietnamese?
2/ What are the similarities and differences in English and Vietnamese idioms?3/ What suggestions are given to improve the learning and teaching of English idioms?
Scope of the study
- Comparative idioms in English and Vietnamese.
- The meaning of English comparative idioms and their equivalents in Vietnamese.
Methods of the study
To effectively gather data for research, a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods is essential Resources are sourced from various materials, including books, journals, newspapers, the internet, and prior studies This research involves a comparative analysis of English and Vietnamese, with English serving as the instrumental language and Vietnamese as the target language The study will first analyze idiomatic expressions in English, followed by a comparison with their Vietnamese counterparts to identify both similarities and differences between the two languages.
Significance of the study
The study of comparative idioms in English and Vietnamese offers learners valuable insights, enhancing their understanding of these expressions This knowledge enables individuals to effectively and skillfully utilize comparative idioms in both spoken and written communication.
Structure of the study
The study begins with declaration, acknowledgment, abstract, and table of contents. The main body of the study is divided into 4 chapters:
Chapter 1: Introduction includes the rationale of the study, aims of the study, research questions, scope of the study, methods of the study, significance of the study, and structure of the study.
Chapter 2: Literature review provides an overview of idiom It consists of definitions of idioms, some features and some types of idioms, the relationship between idiom and culture, and the differences between idioms and proverbs.
Chapter 3: The study is designed to present the meaning of comparison idioms in English and Vietnamese, to point out the similarities and differences between comparison idioms in English and Vietnamese, finally to provide some suggestions on learning and teaching English idioms.
Chapter 4: Conclusion gives a summary of the findings, limitations, and suggestions for further studies.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Idioms in English
1.1 Definitions of idioms in English
The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary defines idioms as: “A group of words whose meaning is different from the meaning of the meaning of the individual words” (Hornby, A S., 2006, p.740).
In "A Dictionary of Linguistics & Phonetics," the author defines an idiom as a sequence of words that is semantically and often syntactically restricted, functioning as a single unit in grammar and lexicography (Crystal, D., 1985, p.225).
An idiom is defined as a unique expression within a language that conveys a specific meaning, which may not align with standard grammatical rules This definition highlights the distinctiveness of idiomatic phrases and their importance in understanding language nuances.
E.g: An oz of luck is better than a pound of wisdom
Abad beginning makes a bad ending
Empty barrels make the most noise
Ahoney tongue, a heart of gall
Flies are easier caught with honey than with vinegar
Understanding a language involves grasping its morphemes, simple words, and compound words, along with their meanings It also requires familiarity with fixed phrases, known as idioms, whose meanings cannot be deduced from the individual words In these cases, conventional semantic rules for combining meanings do not apply.
Idioms are expressions whose meanings are not immediately clear from the individual words, as highlighted in "English Idioms in Use." For instance, the idiom "drive somebody round the bend" signifies making someone angry or frustrated, a meaning that isn't apparent from the phrase itself To truly grasp an idiom, it's essential to see it used in context.
Frustration with a malfunctioning tin opener can lead to the expression "driving me round the bend," which signifies emotional distress rather than literal driving This phrase highlights how an ineffective tool impacts the user's experience, illustrating the broader context of annoyance and the desire for a replacement.
Another definition is taken from Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idiom):
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning rather than a literal one, although some idioms maintain their literal interpretations In linguistics, idioms are often viewed as figures of speech that challenge the principle of compositionality, though this perspective remains a topic of ongoing debate.
John Saeed (2003:60) describes an idiom as a set of words that become fixed in meaning over time through collocation, where words are commonly grouped together This grouping alters the definitions of the individual words, creating a specialized meaning for the entire expression Consequently, an idiom represents a phrase that conveys a meaning distinct from the literal interpretation of its individual words If a listener is unfamiliar with a particular idiom, they may misinterpret its intended meaning.
Idioms often fail to translate effectively between languages, leading to altered or nonsensical meanings This presents a significant challenge for language learners, as idioms are deeply ingrained in everyday communication and their meanings are often taken for granted Understanding idioms is essential for mastering a new language, yet they can be one of the most difficult aspects to grasp.
Idioms possess unique grammatical and semantic characteristics, requiring them to be stored in the mental lexicon as complete units with defined meanings Additionally, speakers must understand the specific constraints surrounding their usage in sentences Many idioms likely originated from metaphorical phrases that have since solidified in both form and meaning within the language.
According to Fernado (1996), idioms exhibit three key characteristics: first, compositeness, as they are widely recognized as multiword expressions like "red herring" and "smell a rat," though single words can also qualify as idioms Second, idioms demonstrate institutionalization, meaning they are conventionalized phrases that evolve from initially novel expressions Lastly, idioms possess semantic opacity, indicating that their meanings cannot be deduced from the individual words, often resulting in non-literal interpretations.
The prevalence of specific features in common word combinations has led to the identification of various multiword expressions, including slang, proverbs, allusions, similes, dead metaphors, social formulas, and collocations, all of which are often categorized as idioms.
According to Wright, J (1999), an idiom has the following features:
+) It is fixed and is recognized by native speakers You cannot make up your own!
+) It uses language in a non-literal - metaphorical way.
Idioms resemble standard phrases in structure, but they are fixed in form, making them resistant to alterations in word order or combinations with other words.
(a)She put her foot in her mouth has the same structure as
(b)She put her bracelet in her drawer but
The drawer in which she put her bracelet was hersHer bracelet was put in her drawer are sentences related to sentence (b).
The mouth in which she put her foot was hers Her foot was put in her mouth do not have the idiomatic sense of sentence (a).
On the other hand, the words of some idioms can be moved without affecting the idiomatic sense:
The FBI kept tabs on radicals.
Tabs were kept on radicals by the FBI.
Radicals were kept tabs on by the FBI.
Idioms can break the rules on combining semantic properties The object of eat must usually be something with the semantic property “edible” but in
He ate his hat Eat your heart out this restriction is violated.
Idioms often lead to humor:
What did the doctor tell the vegetarian about his surgically implanted heart valve from a pig?
That it was okay as long as he didn't “eat his heart out.” (Fromkin, V & Rodman, R 1998:190).
Idioms can be divided into six different forms or structures:
+ Idioms located at noun entries such as “in addition to”, “for the birds”
+ Idioms located at verb entries such as “look forward to”, “take of”, “hear about” + Idioms located at adjectival entries such as “in short”, “hot under the collar”
+ Idioms located at adverbial entries such as “once again”, “worse off”
+ Idioms located at pronominal entries such as “give it up”, “come to nothing”
Understanding idioms like "give a hundred percent" and "one by one" is crucial, as altering any components or functional words can diminish their idiomatic meaning (Yong & Peng, 2007).
In terms of structure, McCarthy (2002: 6) indicates types of idioms by showing this table: form example meaning verb + object/complement
Achieve double benefits with a single action by effectively "killing two birds with one stone." Experience rapid results "in the blink of an eye," demonstrating efficiency and speed Address issues that are often a "bone of contention," sparking debates and disagreements among individuals Use similes to enhance understanding, drawing comparisons like "as + adjective" to clarify complex ideas.
+ as, or like + noun) as dry as a bone very dry indeed binomial (word + and + word) rough and ready crude and lacking sophistication trinomial (word + word + and
To be cool, calm, and collected means to remain relaxed and in control, without showing signs of nervousness In essence, it involves summarizing key points succinctly, omitting unnecessary details for clarity.
In terms of semantics, Fernando, C (1996: 36) divides idioms into three sub-class: pure idioms, semi-idioms, and literal idioms.
Idioms in Vietnamese
2.1 Definitions of idioms in Vietnamese
Idioms have long been recognized as a distinctive form of language closely tied to everyday speech, appealing to diverse audiences Their prevalence in poetry and prose enhances clarity and engagement, making them a compelling medium of communication Consequently, idioms have attracted significant interest from researchers, leading to various interpretations and studies on their usage across different contexts.
According to the "Dictionary of Vietnamese Idioms and Proverbs," Vietnamese idioms are defined as fixed combinations of words that possess either a word or sentence structure These idioms belong to the word-level category and are predominantly characterized by their artistic stylization They serve as integral components within sentences, highlighting their unique role in the Vietnamese language.
Nguyen Dinh Hung (2007) defines an idiom as a collection of familiar, fixed expressions whose meanings are often not easily understood through the individual meanings of the words that compose them.
In his research "Cách bình diện của từ và từ tiếng Việt," author Do Huu Chau defines idioms not through traditional concepts but by examining the coherence of meaning He states that if a meaningful combination S, formed by units A, B, C, with respective meanings S1, S2, S3, cannot be explained by the individual meanings S1, S2, S3, then the combination A, B, C is classified as idiomatic.
In the book "Tục ngữ, ca dao, dân ca Việt Nam tập 3," Vu Ngoc Phan defines an idiom as a familiar fragment of a sentence that is widely used but cannot convey a complete thought on its own This highlights the nature of idioms as integral components of language that rely on cultural context for their meaning, emphasizing their role in communication.
In his book "Telling Stories of Idioms and Proverbs," Hoang Van Hanh defines idioms as fixed word combinations that are stable in form and possess a complete structure, conveying rich meanings These idiomatic expressions are widely utilized in everyday communication, particularly in spoken language.
In "Hoạt động của từ tiếng Việt," Dai Xuan Ninh defines idioms as fixed phrases in which the individual elements have partially lost their independence, forming a relatively solid and complete unit This highlights the unique nature of idioms in the Vietnamese language, where the combination of words creates a cohesive meaning that transcends the meanings of the individual components.
According to Nguyen Huu Quynh's conception in the book “Tiếng Việt hiện đại”:
An idiom is a fixed phrase that conveys a complete meaning and carries expressive nuances, often characterized by its figurative and specific nature Typically, idioms are synonymous with or equivalent to a single word, whether it be a noun, verb, or adjective.
Authors have diverse perspectives on idioms; however, there is a consensus that idioms are defined as fixed phrases or combinations of words with a solid structure, particularly in their complete form and content Additionally, idioms are characterized by their imagery, expressiveness, and refined elegance.
Tại vách mạch rừng Đục nước béo cò Ếch ngồi đáy giếng
2.2 Features of Vietnamese idioms a) Symbolism
The symbolism within idioms conveys generalized concepts through vivid imagery or specific elements This richness and depth of meaning contribute to the idiom's distinctive symbolism, which plays a crucial role in defining its value and significance.
According to Do Huu Chau, symbolism involves using real objects and actions to represent common characteristics, properties, and situations This concept emphasizes the use of tangible elements to convey broader, generalized meanings.
E.g: “nước mắt cá sấu” represents lies.
“khẩu phật tâm xà”, “ba que xỏ lá” refer to the deceitful.
“nhà dột cột xiêu” is a house that has been damaged, unattended, and also may have been abandoned, denotes poverty.
“chó chui gầm chạn” is not a description of an undercarriage dog, but also refers to the despicable attitude and action of someone who relies on his wife's side.
Idioms derive their meaning through various translation methods, including metaphor, metonymy, comparison, and rhetoric This process involves using concrete symbols to represent abstract concepts based on similarities Additionally, idioms reflect the ethnicity and specificity of the cultures from which they originate, highlighting unique linguistic characteristics and cultural nuances.
Idioms function as linguistic units that encapsulate specific concepts or symbols, reflecting the essence of cultural experiences Their symbolic nature not only conveys meaning but also embodies national identity, evident in both their content and structure.
The idioms of Vietnam vividly reflect the nation's rich cultural heritage Alongside proverbs and folk songs, these expressions showcase the beauty of traditional Vietnamese culture, offering insights into the people's values, mindset, and lifestyle They create a sense of familiarity with the nation's way of life, emphasizing the deep connection between the idioms and the Vietnamese identity and homeland.
E.g: “cày sâu cuốc bầm”, “chân lấm tay bùn”, “đầu tắt mặt tối”, “dầm mưa dãi nắng”, show the hard work and need at work From that point on, we can see the products made by the small hands of the poor workers making candles, so it is necessary to cherish the values of the employees that must be knocked down by labor.
The relationship between idioms and culture
As we all know, language is inextricably linked to culture and may even be considered a part of it Language and culture interact and shape each other from a dynamic perspective.
Culture and language are deeply interconnected, with culture serving as the carrier of language and language embodying cultural essence Idioms, rich in cultural significance, reflect various aspects such as history, geography, religion, customs, and national psychology As historical relics and products of cultural evolution, idioms provide valuable insights into their respective cultures By studying idioms and understanding the cultural context that shapes them, we can gain a deeper comprehension of both the language and the culture it represents.
Idioms have their roots in historical events, traditions, agriculture, daily life, and animal behaviors, reflecting various aspects of existence This complexity makes idioms challenging to understand To fully grasp their meanings, one must consider the context of traditional culture, mental patterns, geography, religion, and customs.
Customs are shaped over time and become deeply embedded in the national psyche, influencing the creation of idioms Different countries and cultures exhibit a wide range of customs across various aspects of life, leading to the emergence of diverse idiomatic expressions.
Cultural differences in food habits influence language expressions, as seen in the idiom "a piece of cake," which signifies an easy task in English due to the cake's popularity In contrast, this phrase is not used in Chinese, where the concept was adapted to "a piece of cake" to convey the same meaning, reflecting local culinary traditions Similarly, labor practices shape idiomatic expressions; while English speakers say "eat like a horse" to indicate a hearty appetite, Vietnamese speakers use "eat like a buffalo," highlighting the different animals historically associated with agricultural work in their respective cultures.
Idioms are deeply embedded in culture, making them challenging to understand without familiarity with the surrounding context Therefore, exploring the relationship between idioms and culture is both significant and promising for enhancing comprehension.
The differences between idioms and proverb
Idioms and proverbs often share similarities, making it challenging to differentiate between the two; however, this article aims to clarify their distinctions.
According to the Free Dictionary (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Proverbs), a proverb is a short pithy saying in frequent and widespread use that expresses a basic truth or practical precept.
Xa mặt cách lòng (Out of sight, out of mind) Walls have ears
An idiom is a phrase whose meaning is not derived from its literal interpretation but rather from its figurative significance, which is understood through common usage.
The phrase "Eye for an eye" signifies a principle of retribution, while the Vietnamese expression "Rán sành ra mỡ" translates to being very mean Despite their clear definitions, these concepts can still be confusing According to Nguyen Dinh Hung in "Tuyển Tập Thành Ngữ, Tục Ngữ Ca Dao Việt – Anh thông dụng" (1999), there are several notable features worth discussing.
- A proverb is a complete sentence with a whole meaning making comment on social relationships, imparting experience of life, giving lessons in morality, or criticizing.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
An idiom is a fixed phrase but not a complete sentence, so it is considered as a word and that’s why you can put it in a sentence.
It all happened in the blink of an eye.
Proverbs and idioms both encapsulate human understanding of the world and natural phenomena While idioms generalize concepts derived from this knowledge, proverbs offer interpretations and judgments based on similar insights.
Idiom: Dã tràng xe cát (build st on sand)
Proverb: Dã tràng xe cát Biển Đông
Nhọc lòng mà chẳng nên công cán gì
It can be understood that the contents of idioms are the contents of concepts, and the contents of proverbs are the contents of judgments.
From all the differences above, we can find out that idioms belong to the linguistic aspect and proverbs belong to the aspect of awareness activities.
THE STUDY
The meaning and features of comparison idioms in English and Vietnamese
Similes are commonly and effectively used across various aspects of our lives, particularly in everyday language and literature, including prose, poetry, and songs They enhance the listener's or reader's ability to visualize and feel vivid emotions and images When crafted skillfully, similes significantly elevate the impact of language.
Effective communication often relies on being "to the point," and interestingly, idioms and proverbs frequently incorporate similes with metaphorical meanings These idioms, referred to as comparative idioms or idioms of comparison, are abundant in both English and Vietnamese languages.
Common similes in English include phrases like “as fair as a rose,” “as poor as a church mouse,” and “as slow as a snail,” which vividly illustrate comparisons Similarly, Vietnamese expressions such as “nhanh như chớp” (fast as lightning) and “đẹp như tiên” (beautiful as a fairy) convey similar imagery and meanings, showcasing the richness of language in both cultures Other notable similes include “as sharp as a razor,” “as black as coal,” “as tall as a giant,” alongside Vietnamese counterparts like “xấu như ma” (ugly as a ghost) and “to như voi” (big as an elephant) These phrases enhance communication by providing relatable imagery.
A comparative idiom is a fixed expression that involves a comparison and carries a figurative or symbolic meaning While comparative idioms share many similarities with similes, it's important to recognize that not all similes qualify as comparative idioms.
Comparative idioms are idioms with figurative images, but it is not too difficult for us to find their meaning through the components of the sentence.
E.g: as cold as ice - very cold, frigid as lazy as a pig - very lazy, do not want to work vui như Tết - very happy, merry, cheery câm như hến - be completely silent, say nothing
1.2 The features of comparison idioms
There are a few techniques to spot comparative idioms According to “A study on metaphor and simile in English idioms and Vietnamese equivalents” (Dang Hong Phuc,
2010, p.45) there are two ostensibly frequent methods: Identification based on individual words or phrases, as well as structures, particularly grammatical structures.
- Based on individual words or phrases:
+ Comparisons with adjectives: as + adjective + as + (a/an/the) + noun E.g: as black as ink as thin as a rail as pretty as a picture as fat as a pig as white as snow
In Vietnamese, comparisons are often made using the word "như," which translates to "as" in English Common expressions include "béo như lợn" (fat as a pig), "lười như hủi" (lazy as a sloth), "chậm như rùa" (slow as a turtle), and "ngọt như mía lùi" (sweet as sugarcane) These phrases illustrate the vivid and relatable nature of Vietnamese similes.
Comparative idioms using the structure verb + like + a/an/the + noun are designed to create implicit comparisons These comparisons highlight the activities or behaviors of subjects, employing simple and familiar verbs Such idiomatic expressions are prevalent in both English and Vietnamese, making them easily recognizable.
E.g: to sleep like a log to spend money like water ăn như mèo khóc như mưa
(verb) + like/as + clause (S + V + )(verb) + like/as + noun phrase
Expressions such as "to be like a bull in a china shop" illustrate clumsiness, while "to have a memory like an elephant" signifies an exceptional memory Similarly, the Vietnamese phrase "tiền vào nhà khó như gió vào nhà trống" conveys the difficulty of earning money, and "ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo, làm như mèo mửa" describes someone who eats voraciously, speaks eloquently, and works with carelessness These idiomatic expressions emphasize various characteristics and behaviors through vivid comparisons.
English idioms Vietnamese as A as B E.g:as black as ink
A như B E.g:đen như mực like/as B
E.g:like two peas in a pod như B E.g:như hai giọt nước
C like/as B E.g:to eat like a pig
The similarities and differences in English and Vietnamese idioms
Human races have evolved through various stages of development, leading to a shared understanding of nature, humanity, and society across different races and regions Despite differences in blood type, skin color, or geographic location, our minds exhibit significant similarities, as evidenced by numerous idioms For instance, many English idioms have corresponding expressions in Vietnamese that retain the same meaning, highlighting the universal nature of human experience.
2.1.1 Comparative idioms referring to people’s appearance
Because of their geographical location and environment, English people have a rather different appearance than Vietnamese people.
English and Vietnamese share similar idioms for describing skin color, such as "as black as ebony" and "as black as coal" in English, which correspond to "đen như gỗ mun" and "đen như than" in Vietnamese.
The expressions "as fat as a pig" and "as fat as a partridge" are commonly used in England to describe someone who is overweight Similarly, in Vietnamese, the phrases "béo như lợn" and "béo như con cun cút" convey the same meaning.
Furthermore, there are English idioms about people’s beauty, such as pretty as a picture.
This charming cottage dates back to the 15th century and is as pretty as a picture, with its thatched roof and secluded garden.
In Vietnamese, there are idioms that express beauty, such as "đẹp như tranh," which translates to "as beautiful as a painting." For instance, one might say, "Oh, they are all as beautiful as paintings, both the boys and the girls." This phrase highlights the exceptional beauty of individuals in a vivid and artistic manner.
Từ điển giải thích thành ngữ tiếng Việt (1995:302) 2.1.2 Comparative idioms referring to people’s character
We would like to list a few idioms that both English and Vietnamese people use to describe people’s personalities.
When describing someone who is very fierce, English people say things like “as fierce as a lion”, “as fierce as wolves”.
Vietnamese idioms like "dữ như cọp" (fierce as a tiger) and "dữ như chó" (fierce as a dog) vividly express strong emotions or behaviors For example, one might say, "The buffalo is so scared of me that it doesn’t dare to make a sound, working as obediently as a calf… But if you leave me alone, it becomes fierce as a tiger." These expressions illustrate the intensity of fear and aggression in Vietnamese culture.
The Vietnamese language features idioms that describe shyness, similar to English expressions For instance, while English uses the phrase "timid as a rabbit," Vietnamese employs "nhát như thỏ đế" to convey the same meaning.
E.g: Bác Tám cũng được gặp cán bộ vài lần, còn vợ bác phải để ngoài không cho biết gì hết vì nhát như thỏ.
Từ điển giải thích thành ngữ tiếng Việt (1995:508) 2.1.3 Comparative idioms referring to people’s mental state
The idiomas fresh as a daisy is used by the English to describe someone who is really happy or fresh, as in:
Even when it’s so hot, she looks as fresh as a daisy How does she do it?
In Vietnamese, there is a related idiom:tươi như hoa
When someone is said to be calm, particularly when the contrary is predicted He/she is described as “as cool as a cucumber” in English.
Everyone was rushing round trying to get things ready, and he just sat there, as cool as a cucumber.
We have similar Vietnamese expressions for people’s mental states, such as: “tỉnh như không”.
E.g: Vợ tôi lo lắng ra mặt, thế nhưng cậu con út nổi tiếng tinh nghịch của tôi lại tỉnh như không.
Từ điển giải thích thành ngữ tiếng Việt (1995:644) 2.1.4 Comparative idioms referring to people’s health state
When referring to someone who is exceptionally strong or in great physical condition, English idioms like "strong as an ox" parallel Vietnamese expressions such as "khoẻ như trâu mộng" and "khoẻ như trâu đất."
Gia đình ấy có bốn đứa con trai thì cả bốn đều khoẻ như trâu đất đang hùng hục ăn cơm.
The Vietnamese idioms "nhợt nhạt như người chết đuối" and "tái xanh như bị ma ám" convey similar meanings to the English expressions "as pale as death" and "as pale as a ghost." These phrases are used to describe individuals who appear physically unwell, either due to impending illness or extreme fear.
Idioms reflect the diverse aspects of life, including nature, social development, and personal emotions, embodying the unique characteristics of a country's language and culture By studying idioms, learners can enhance their understanding of different nations and their cultural nuances.
As I previously said, people from various parts of the world, as well as various cultures, have a similar mindset and knowledge of nature and culture However, since each nation has its own geographical condition, economic situation, and social climate, the same thought and knowledge can be conveyed in a variety of ways through language. Meanwhile, since idioms are a type of vocabulary, they have a variety of ways of communicating ideas and feelings.
While global perceptions of personality, character, and mental health may align, they are shaped by factors such as living conditions, socioeconomic status, and cultural customs This leads to diverse expressions of similar concepts across different languages Consequently, even when Vietnamese and English idioms convey the same underlying meaning, their comparative forms often differ significantly.
2.2.1 Comparative idioms referring to people’s appearance
Geographical location and temperature significantly influence people's appearances, leading to distinct looks among different cultures, such as the English and Vietnamese While both languages share comparative idioms to describe people's presence, they diverge when expressing attractiveness or unattractiveness For instance, the English idiom "fair as a rose" is used to describe a woman's beauty, highlighting the unique expressions found in each language.
I guess you’ll be in love with her at the first sight because she is as fair as a rose.
A Vietnamese woman is usually depicted as đẹp như tiên (as beautiful as a fairy) in the following way:
Hoàng hậu Việt Nam hiếm hoi sinh được người con gái đẹp như tiên.
The Vietnamese idiom for describing a woman's appearance often differs from English comparisons, highlighting cultural nuances For instance, the English expression "as ugly as sin" conveys extreme unattractiveness, showcasing how both languages utilize vivid imagery to express similar sentiments about beauty and appearance.
Some babies are as ugly as sin at that age.
The Vietnamese expression "xấu như ma," meaning "as ugly as a ghost," illustrates cultural differences in perceptions of beauty compared to English idioms In Vietnamese culture, the ghost (ma) symbolizes fear and ugliness, while the fairy (tiên) represents beauty and kindness These fictional characters, though not real, hold significant meanings in the hearts of those who believe in them Historically, during times of oppression, the fairy was seen as a source of hope and support for the Vietnamese people Consequently, extreme beauty is often likened to that of a fairy, reflecting deep-rooted cultural values and beliefs.
In Vietnamese culture, comparisons are often subtle, with concepts like tiên (fairy) and ma (ghost) representing lazy fantasies In contrast, English associations are distinct, with beauty symbolized by the rose, regarded as the most beautiful flower and England's official floral emblem Conversely, ugliness is linked to sin, which is perceived as the epitome of repulsiveness in English thought.
Besides, when referring to someone’s skin color, the English often use the idioms: as black as a chimney as black as a sweep as black as soot
Suggestions for learning and teaching idioms
3.1 Common problems when learning idioms
In the process of learning English idioms as well as learning English, there will always be some difficult problems that almost everyone encounters.
One of the main challenges in learning English idioms is determining which ones are essential to study, as the language is filled with a vast array of idiomatic expressions Additionally, learners often encounter significant variations in meaning for the same idioms between British and American English This diversity can make it difficult for students to identify which idioms are commonly used in specific English-speaking communities, complicating their decision on whether to invest time in learning them.
The second is difficult to understand the meaning of idioms Learners can come across many words they haven't learned in an idiom, and that can potentially create feelings of
Understanding idioms can be challenging, as their meanings often differ significantly from the individual words that make them up This disconnect can lead to feelings of shock and frustration for those trying to grasp their significance.
Many beginners struggle with the proper use of idioms, as each one carries a unique meaning Understanding how to incorporate idioms into sentences can be challenging, making it difficult to use them effectively in various contexts.
To effectively learn idioms in a foreign language, consistent practice is essential; without regular use, their meanings can easily be forgotten This challenge is common among language learners, not just in English but across all languages.
3.2.1.Find and compare English and Vietnamese idioms with equivalent meanings This is also a very effective and fun way to memorize idioms Learning in this way can also improve your translation skills as well as contrast similarities and differences between the two cultures.
E.g: as plain as the nose on one’s face = rõ như ban ngày as steady as a rock = vững như bàn thạch
English idioms can be categorized into various groups, including those featuring animal names, body parts, and adjectives It is beneficial to document the meanings and usages of these idioms in a notebook organized by these categories for easy reference and study.
Utilizing idioms effectively can greatly enhance your search experience Whenever you encounter a new idiom, it's essential to identify its keyword and consult the English Dictionary for Advanced Learners to deepen your understanding.
The Cambridge English Idioms book is a valuable resource for mastering idiom usage, featuring 60 themed lessons Each lesson introduces relevant idioms, provides examples, and offers guidance on their correct application Additionally, exercises are included to reinforce your understanding and ensure you can use the idioms appropriately, emphasizing comprehension over mechanical usage.
3.2.3.Learning idioms through context or topic
Memorizing idioms through a simple list is often ineffective for long-term retention A more effective approach is to learn idioms within specific contexts or themes, such as shopping or leisure activities This method enhances understanding of the situations and emotions associated with each idiom, ensuring learners use them appropriately and avoid misapplication in different contexts.
To enhance your conversational skills, envision particular scenarios and rehearse discussing them while incorporating idioms to convey your message Initially, this approach may feel somewhat rigid, but as you become familiar with the idioms, their usage will flow more naturally in your speech.
Learning English can be exhausting, and if it feels too tiring, the time and effort invested may not yield good results To learn effectively, it's essential to feel comfortable and engaged in the process This is why learning English through short stories is an excellent option, as it fosters interest and enjoyment in the language.
Engaging with captivating and humorous short stories can significantly enhance your energy and motivation for learning These stories encompass all the essential elements needed for foreign language learners By reading short stories in English, you not only improve your reading comprehension but also expand your vocabulary and grasp of grammar structures Make a habit of noting unfamiliar words and looking up their meanings, as this method allows for a more natural retention of knowledge without overwhelming your brain.
Students are generally involved in listening to stories, as we all know It's possible that the students will like it, and the lesson will be very successful.
Teachers face the challenge of selecting age-appropriate stories based on psychological insights Due to classroom time constraints, these stories should be brief and presented concisely to ensure that students can grasp the content quickly.
Teachers play a crucial role in selecting suitable idioms for stories After each tale, instructors should provide at least three idioms, encouraging students to choose the one that resonates most with the narrative Additionally, it's essential to distribute copies of the stories to students, allowing them ample time to read and fully understand the content.
3.3.2 Teaching idioms through articles/letters
The teacher's first job is to compile articles and letters from newspapers, books, and magazines Students should gain context information from the articles/letters.
The teacher's secondary responsibility involves identifying idioms in students' written work The instructor guides students to find and sequentially number these idioms in their papers and letters Subsequently, students are tasked with explaining the meanings of the idioms based on their context.
The article/letter should be turned into copies for the students, much like stories, so that they have enough time to read and comprehend it.
Advertisements also use idioms It is possible that the students will find it fun and engaging, and the lesson will be more successful as a result.
CONCLUSION
Summary of the study
Research indicates that English idioms, particularly comparative ones, are fascinating and beneficial for both educators and students These idioms, which describe aspects of human appearance, personality, mental state, and health, reflect the distinct traits of various cultures intertwined with human characteristics Additionally, our extensive study revealed that Vietnamese idioms are often richer and more vivid than their English counterparts.
This article offers a concise exploration of comparative idioms in English and Vietnamese that refer to people, aiming to serve as a valuable resource for enthusiasts of English idioms, particularly those focused on comparisons Additionally, it highlights cultural elements reflected in these idioms from both languages.
Limitations of the study
During the process of this research, the researcher takes some problems there.
Lack of resources, which means there are not enough of them That is the reason why some data is missing and not collected and included in the project.
The research process can be time-consuming and exhausting for authors, often due to a lack of clarity in understanding literary devices This vagueness can lead to mistakes that require correction, further prolonging the research efforts Consequently, the extensive time commitment involved in conducting thorough research makes it a challenging task for researchers.
Suggestions for further studies
The researcher has been completed with the author's great efforts, although mistakes may not be avoided There are some topics for future research:
- A study on idioms in American English literature.
- A study on the similarities and differences of idioms and proverbs.
In summary, despite the study's limitations, it was conducted with the support of teachers and personal dedication Constructive feedback or criticism from readers would greatly assist the author in enhancing the research.
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13 http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Proverbs
1 Đái Xuân Ninh (1978),Hoạt động của từ tiếng Việt NXB Khoa học Xã hội.
Nguyễn Lân (2010),Từ Điển Thành Ngữ và Tục Ngữ Việt Nam NXB Văn hoá Thông tin.
2 Đỗ Hữu Châu (2017),Cách bình diện của từ và từ tiếng Việt NXB ĐHQG Hà Nội.
3 Hoàng Văn Hành (1994),Kể chuyện thành ngữ, tục ngữ NXB Khoa học Xã hội.
4 Nguyễn Đình Hùng (2007), Tuyển Tập Thành Ngữ Tục Ngữ Ca Dao Việt - Anh Thông Dụng NXB Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh.
5 Nguyễn Hữu Quỳnh (1994), Tiếng Việt hiện đại Trung Tâm Biên Soạn Từ Điển Bách Khoa Việt Nam.
6 Nguyễn Lân (2010),Từ Điển Thành Ngữ và Tục Ngữ Việt Nam NXB Văn hoá Thông tin.
7 Nguyễn Như Ý (1995),Từ điển giải thích thành ngữ tiếng Việt NXB Giáo dục.
8 Vũ Ngọc Phan (2008),Tục ngữ, ca dao, dân ca Việt Nam tập 3 NXB Văn học.
APPENDIXES THE MEANING OF ENGLISH COMPARATIVE IDIOMS People’s appearance
1 as black as coal completely black; totally without light or color.
2 as black as a sweep very black
3 as black as ink very dark, dark things like ink
4 as black as a raven extremely unlucky
5 as thin as a rail very slender
6 as fat as a pig exceptionally fat; grotesquely fat
7 as fat as a partridge round, chubby
8 as big as elephant very big
9 as pretty as a picture very visually attractive or appealing; having a picturesque beauty
10 as ugly as sin extremely visually displeasing or unattractive
11 as like as peas in a pod said of two people who are very similar in interests,actions, or appearance
12 as white as snow extremely white or pale in color
13 as red as a cherry extremely flushed and red in the face, as from embarrassment, anger, or physical strain.
14 as tall as a steeple tall and skinny
15 as timid as a rabbit very shy and quiet
16 as changeable as the weather fickle, has no stance
17 as meek as a lamb exceptionally patient, humble, and mild
18 as gentle as a lamb pleasant, caring, and calm
19 as lazy as a pig very lazy
20 as obstinate as a mule extremely reluctant or unwilling to change a parti cular opinion, behavior, or course of action, especially when faced with opposition
21 as wise as an owl exceptionally wise, discerning, or sound in judgment
22 as stupid as a pig very stupid, not smart
23 as cold as ice extremely cold in temperature
24 as sweet as honey very sweet, charming
25 as sweet as sugar exceptionally sweet, friendly, or kindly
26 as quick as lightning incredibly quickly or speedily.
27 as slow as snail sluggish, slow
28 as hard as stone very hard
29 as greedy as a pig eat a lot, gluttony
30 as happy as a clam at high tide very joyful and content
31 as fresh as a daisy alert, energetic, and enthusiastic, typically after some refreshing activity
32 as cool as a cucumber calm and composed, especially in times of stress
33 as sick as a dog very ill
34 as still as death Completely motionless; having no movement whatsoever
35 (as) drunk as a lord Very intoxicated from alcohol
36 as bold as brass in a brash, arrogant, or pushy manner