RATIONALE OF THE STUDY
Cognitive linguistics has gained significant traction in Vietnam, leading to a rise in studies focused on its principles A key concept within this field is metaphor, which plays a crucial role in meaning construction and conceptualization Metaphors serve as powerful tools for transferring meaning, commonly utilized in both everyday life and literature They enable individuals to grasp abstract ideas by relating them to more tangible experiences, as illustrated by expressions like "Love is a journey," which metaphorically frames love in a concrete context.
The concept of "argument is war," as analyzed by renowned cognitive linguists Lakoff and Johnson (1980), is frequently encountered and widely employed, often subconsciously.
Nobody can deny idioms‟ importance in communication, learning, teaching and translation as well but it is a difficult area of English According to Cooper
Idioms pose a unique challenge for language learners due to their unpredictable figurative meanings, which often cannot be deduced from their individual components Understanding idioms requires grasping the metaphorical nuances and cultural contexts embedded within them This study explores the influence of culture on idioms in both Vietnamese and English, particularly in how they express the concept of power.
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY AND RESEARCH QUESTIONS
This study explores idioms related to the conceptual metaphor of power, drawing on the theories of Lakoff and Johnson It examines the similarities and differences in the use of power metaphors within English and Vietnamese idioms, reflecting the cultural nuances of each language community Additionally, the paper offers suggestions for further research and understanding of these metaphoric expressions.
2 teaching, learning and translating of conceptual metaphor about power which is expressed in English and Vietnamese idioms In other words, the study seeks answers to two research questions:
Research question 1: How is the concept of power metaphorically expressed in English and Vietnamese idioms?
Research question 2: What are the similarities and differences in expressions of conceptual metaphors about power in English and Vietnam idioms?
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This study analyzes the theory and classification of conceptual metaphors as proposed by Lakoff and Johnson, focusing specifically on metaphors related to power in society and politics within English and Vietnamese idioms Due to time and resource constraints, the research examines and compares these conceptual metaphors using six selected dictionaries—three in English and three in Vietnamese.
The selected idioms in English are cited from several dictionaries including:
- Oxford Idioms Dictionary for Learners of English by Oxford University Press
- Dictionary of American Idioms by Spears, R.A (2005)
- Longman American Idioms Dictionary by Urban, R (2000)
Idioms in Vietnamese are from:
- Thành ngữ tiếng Việt by Nguyễn Lực, Lương Văn Đang (1993)
- Từ điển giải thích thành ngữ tiếng Việt by Nguyễn Như Ý (1998)
- Từ điển thành ngữ và tục ngữ Việt Nam by Nguyễn Lân (2014)
METHODS AND PROCEDURES OF THE STUDY
This study utilizes the conceptual metaphors framework established by Lakoff and Johnson in their seminal work, "Metaphor We Live By" (1980) Their model categorizes conceptual metaphors into three types: structural, ontological, and orientational metaphors To explore these classifications, contrastive and comparative analyses were conducted to identify the similarities and differences in the expression of conceptual metaphors.
3 power in English and Vietnamese idioms
The analysis of the data employed both qualitative and quantitative methods Quantitatively, the focus was on the frequency of structural, ontological, and orientational metaphors Qualitatively, the data were categorized based on specific criteria, including the concepts of power as the human body, power as a container, the notion that power is up, and the idea that no power is down.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
T HEORETICAL SIGNIFICANCE
This study hopes to provide useful contributions to studies of cognitive linguistics, especially the role of conceptual metaphor in expressing the concept of power in idioms.
P RACTICAL SIGNIFICANCE
This research aims to enhance English learners in Vietnam by highlighting the cultural differences between English and Vietnamese through the study of idioms Additionally, it seeks to improve reading comprehension, translation skills, and the analysis of literary works.
ORGANIZATION OF THE THESIS
This introduction outlines the rationale and objectives of the study, detailing the methodology employed It also highlights the scope and significance of the research while providing an overview of the thesis's organization.
Part B: Development This part consists of three chapters:
Chapter 1 offers a comprehensive overview of cognitive linguistics, focusing specifically on conceptual metaphors It also explores related concepts, including power dynamics and idiomatic expressions, before concluding with a review of relevant studies in the field.
Chapter 2: Research Methodology and Procedures This chapter presents the methods and the procedures of the research including how the data were collected, described and analyzed
Chapter 3: Findings and Discussions This chapter presents the result of my
4 analysis of conceptual metaphor about power in English and Vietnamese idioms, their differences and similarities in the two languages
In conclusion, this section encapsulates the findings of the studies, highlighting their implications for learning, teaching, and translating idioms Additionally, it offers recommendations for future research and addresses the limitations encountered during the study.
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
L ITERATURE REVIEW
Since the latter half of the twentieth century, Cognitive Linguistics has emerged as a significant research area exploring the connections between language, the mind, and human socio-physical experiences A pivotal contribution to this field is the work of Lakoff and Johnson in their 1980 book, which articulates various perspectives on conceptual metaphor Their theory illustrates how abstract concepts can be understood through more concrete mappings, inspiring further exploration into the conceptual metaphor of power, which embodies both abstract and tangible qualities.
In Vietnam, notable linguists such as Lý Toàn Thắng (2005), Trần Văn Cơ (2007), and Nguyễn Đức Tồn (2007) have significantly advanced cognitive linguistics Lý Toàn Thắng's work provides a comprehensive overview of cognitive linguistics and its importance, while Trần Văn Cơ delves into cognition, particularly focusing on conceptual metaphors and their evolution both in Vietnam and globally He highlights the role of conceptual metaphors in understanding one concept through another, underscoring the contributions of these scholars to the foundation of cognitive linguistics.
6 development of cognitive field in the world in general and in Vietnam in particular
In addition to renowned linguists who have established the foundation of cognitive linguistics in Vietnam and globally, other researchers have also focused on the cognitive field and metaphor Zhang (2012) explores the universality and variation of love metaphors in English and Chinese through comparative and contrastive analysis, providing insights into the reasons behind these variations Similarly, Hồ Thị Thu Trang (2010) examines the representation of characteristics through domestic animal metaphors, reaffirming the prevalence of metaphor in everyday language by analyzing terms related to human traits Although these studies may not directly relate to my research, they offer valuable perspectives on cognitive linguistics, conceptual metaphors, and their methodologies.
Nguyễn Thị Yến Thoa (2005) explores metaphors associated with the human body in English and Vietnamese, particularly focusing on the word “hand” in English and “bàn tay” in Vietnamese She provides examples that illustrate how these metaphors reflect the functions of hands in both languages, although she does not address idiomatic expressions containing the "hand" element Overall, the study highlights the growing interest in cognitive linguistics and metaphor among researchers in Vietnam.
Nguyễn Ngọc Vũ (2012) explores the conceptual metaphor of power in English and Vietnamese idioms featuring the word "hand." His research reaffirms that conceptual metaphors serve as a foundation for meaning in idioms across both languages Additionally, by comparing the conceptualizations in English and Vietnamese, learners gain deeper insights into the nuances of both languages, particularly in understanding abstract concepts.
7 concept “power” is understood by the more concrete concept of “hand”
Lương Thị Hiền (2007) explores the concept of power by examining the language used in daily communication within Vietnamese families, rather than relying on conceptual metaphors Her study provides a critical analysis of power through the lens of discourse analysis, highlighting the significance of specific words that convey power dynamics in everyday interactions.
Despite extensive literature on power and conceptualization globally and in Vietnam, there remains a lack of specific studies on the conceptual metaphor of power within English and Vietnamese idioms This research particularly highlights the role of power in societal and political contexts, aiming to enhance the understanding of both languages for teachers, learners, and translators This gap in research has motivated me to conduct this study.
T HEORETICAL BACKGROUND
1.2.1 An overview of Cognitive Linguistics
Cognitive Linguistics emphasizes the role of cognition as a fundamental process through which individuals receive, transmit, and manipulate information using their brains (Lý Toàn Thắng, 2008) Consequently, linguistic knowledge is rooted in general cognitive processes and thought Fauconnier and Turner further elaborate on this connection.
Cognitive Linguistics, established in 1998, is recognized as a significant framework for examining language, conceptual systems, human cognition, and meaning construction Unlike other language science approaches, it explores the connections between language, the mind, and socio-physical experiences (Evans, 2012) As a result, Cognitive Linguistics has significantly impacted various domains within cognitive science.
Cognitive Linguistics, as outlined by Evans (2012), is driven by two main principles: Cognitive Commitment and Generalization Commitment These concepts, introduced by Lakoff (1991), highlight how human cognition influences language and the way we name things Cognitive Commitment plays a crucial role in understanding the principles of linguistic structure, revealing the connection between language and human cognitive processes.
8 is reflected from other cognitive and brain disciplines Meanwhile, the Generalization Commitment represents a dedication which characterizes general principles and they are applied to all aspects of human language
Cognitivism encompasses two primary branches: cognitive approaches to grammar and cognitive semantics Cognitive semantics explores how our experiences shape the conceptual system and influence the semantic structures that language encodes.
This study emphasizes cognitive semantics, highlighting its significance in understanding meaning It explores how cognitive linguistics, particularly cognitive semantics, is essential for analyzing linguistic expressions and idioms that convey the concept of power.
Since its emergence in the mid-1970s, Cognitive Linguistics has drawn significant attention from scholars such as Lakoff and Johnson (1980), Turner (1987), and Kovecses (2010) Metaphor is defined as "understanding and experiencing one kind of thing in terms of another" (Lakoff and Johnson, 1980:5), with meaning transference occurring through the similarities between two objects The Conceptual Metaphor Theory, proposed by Lakoff and Johnson, stands as one of the earliest and most influential frameworks in this field Metaphors permeate our daily lives, influencing the way we think, experience, and act, and are not merely "figures of speech" (McGlone, 2007:109), but are fundamentally metaphorical in nature Most everyday metaphors are conventional, representing stable expressions that are systematically utilized by people.
Traditional theory, as noted by McGlone (2007), defines metaphor as a basic comparison represented through simple structures such as X is Y or X is like Y A prime example of this is the idiom "call the shots/tunes," which is metaphorically employed to describe the act of making decisions or controlling a situation.
In contemporary discourse, the traditional linguistic formula is challenged by the advanced perspective introduced by Lakoff and his colleagues They propose that conceptual metaphor, as defined by Lakoff and Johnson, serves as a systematic method for understanding abstract domains through the lens of more concrete source domains This approach highlights the significance of powerful individuals who exert control over others, emphasizing the need to rethink our understanding of power dynamics.
Metaphor is basically considered the foundation to create idioms (Nguyễn Ngọc
This paper examines the role of conceptual metaphors in the formation of idioms, specifically focusing on the metaphor of power as represented in English idioms For instance, the phrase "have a big hand" signifies significant influence, with "hand" symbolizing power The study also contrasts these English idioms with their Vietnamese counterparts to highlight cultural differences in metaphorical expressions of power.
In summary, metaphors represent "extraordinary rather than ordinary language" (Lackoff and Johnson, 1980:3) and play a significant role in our daily communication and experiences They function naturally and unconsciously, serving as conceptual tools that help us grasp even the most abstract ideas through more tangible, concrete examples.
According to the cognitive function, Lackoff and Johnson (1980) classify metaphors into three overlapping groups including structural, ontological and orientational metaphors
Structural metaphors, as discussed in "Metaphors We Live By" by Lakoff and Johnson, are instances where one concept is understood through the lens of another, forming a significant part of conceptual metaphors These metaphors are characterized by internal consistency and involve structuring one experience or activity in relation to another Consequently, structural metaphors allow us to comprehend and articulate one concept by framing it within the context of another, enhancing our understanding of complex ideas.
The metaphor "ARGUMENT IS WAR" exemplifies a structural metaphor that shapes our understanding of arguments through combat imagery This is evident in phrases such as "Your claims are indefensible" and "He attacked every weak point in my argument," illustrating how we perceive disagreements as battles Expressions like "I demolished his argument" and "He shot down all of my arguments" further emphasize the combative nature of discourse Additionally, the statement "I've never won an argument with him" highlights the competitive aspect, while "You disagree? Okay, shoot!" invites confrontation Finally, the warning "If you use that strategy, he'll wipe you out" underscores the strategic thinking involved in argumentative exchanges.
The relationship between arguments and wars highlights the distinction between verbal discourse and armed conflict, as they serve different purposes However, arguments are often framed using war-related terminology, such as attack, defend, and win or lose, suggesting a partial structural overlap This metaphorical language shapes our understanding and discussion of arguments, illustrating how one well-defined concept can inform and structure another Ultimately, structural metaphors enable us to draw parallels between complex ideas, enhancing clarity and comprehension.
Ontological metaphors, as identified by George Lakoff and Mark Johnson in "Metaphors We Live By" (1980), are a key category of conceptual metaphors that allow us to perceive abstract concepts such as emotions, activities, and ideas as tangible entities or substances By framing these intangible experiences as objects, we create artificial boundaries that enable us to categorize, group, and quantify them effectively This conceptual framework helps us better understand and communicate about various events and actions in our lives (Lakoff and Johnson, 2003).
Ontological metaphors conceptualize events and actions as objects, with activities viewed as substances and states as containers A prime example is the container metaphor, which suggests that we perceive ourselves as physical beings, bounded by our skin, and experience the world as external to us Each individual acts as a container, projecting this in-out orientation onto other objects This is illustrated through visual field metaphors, such as "the ship is coming into view," "I have him in sight," "I can't see him—the tree is in the way," and "that's in the center of my field of vision."
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURES
R ESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This study employs contrastive analysis (C.A.) and comparative analysis to explore the similarities and differences in conceptual metaphors related to power within English and Vietnamese idioms The integration of these two analytical approaches enhances their effectiveness; contrastive studies primarily focus on identifying differences between languages, which is essential for language teaching, learning, and translation (James, 1980) Conversely, comparative analysis serves as a vital tool for highlighting both similarities and contrasts among cases, thereby enriching the descriptive power of the research (Collier, 1993) Ultimately, the combination of these methodologies proves to be beneficial in achieving the study's objectives.
D ATA
For the purpose of the study, English and Vietnamese idioms are selected from famous dictionaries of idioms In English, famous dictionaries are used including:
Oxford Idioms-Dictionary for Learners of English (2006) by Oxford University
Press; Dictionary of American Idioms by Spears, R.A (2005) and Longman American Idioms Dictionary by Urban, R (2000)
All Vietnamese idioms are cited from Thành ngữ tiếng Việt by Nguyễn Lực,
Lương Văn Đang (1993); Từ điển giải thích thành ngữ tiếng Việt by Nguyễn Như Ý (1998); and Từ điển Thành ngữ và Tục ngữ Việt Nam by Nguyễn Lân (2014).
D ATA COLLECTION
A thorough examination of their meanings revealed 114 metaphorical expressions related to the concept of power, sourced from various dictionaries This collection includes 63 samples in English and 51 in Vietnamese, which have been systematically organized and classified.
This study highlights that many Vietnamese idioms related to the concept of power are often specific to familial contexts, which limits their relevance to the research scope Consequently, the number of applicable Vietnamese idioms is fewer compared to their English counterparts.
In the process of gathering and categorizing raw data, I reached out to my American friends with several questions to evaluate my understanding against that of native speakers, aiming to uncover the cultural similarities and differences between our two backgrounds.
D ATA ANALYSIS
The study employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze data, aiming to uncover similarities and differences in structural, ontological, and orientational metaphors related to power in English and Vietnamese idioms Quantitative analysis focuses on measuring the prevalence of various metaphor types, while qualitative analysis classifies data based on conceptual metaphor criteria While quantitative research offers neutrality and generalizability (Roman et al., 2013), qualitative research excels in generating insights into new phenomena and complex interrelations that have not been thoroughly explored (Seipel and Rieker, 2003).
R ESEARCH PROCEDURES
This research investigates the similarities and differences in conceptual metaphors related to power within English and Vietnamese idioms To achieve its objectives, several methodological steps were undertaken.
Step 1: Conduct the literature review and establish the theoretical background of the study
The analysis of prior research reveals the existing gaps in the study of conceptual metaphors, idioms, and power dynamics This exploration highlights the significance of these themes and provides a rationale for selecting this topic for further investigation.
Secondly, the theoretical framework of this study includes cognitive linguistics, conceptual metaphors, idioms and power which are clearly described to guide this study
This study meticulously selects approximately 100 samples from six English and Vietnamese dictionaries to explore idioms that express the concept of power The author emphasizes the importance of understanding the explanations provided by various authors and language users, as the meanings of idioms often extend beyond their individual components During the data collection and classification process, each sample is thoughtfully chosen to effectively address the two research questions posed in the study.
This study categorizes data into three types of metaphors: structural, ontological, and orientational, as defined by Lakoff and Johnson (1980) It highlights the number and percentage of metaphorical expressions within each category to ensure the study's reliability and validity Additionally, it identifies the similarities and differences in how the concept of power is expressed in English and Vietnamese idioms through comparative analysis.
Step 4: Present the findings, discussion and conclusion
Step 3 generates important findings, which are then discussed, and finally conclusions are drawn The study ends with some implications, limitations and suggestions for further studies
R ELIABILITY AND VALIDITY
This study's reliability is ensured by sourcing data primarily from reputable published dictionaries and books in both English and Vietnamese Additionally, all cited information is derived from trustworthy sources, complete with clear references to the author, publication date, and location.
The English and Vietnamese idioms included in this study are meticulously chosen to accurately represent their meanings To identify idioms that express the concept of power, we rely on insights from renowned authors and experts Additionally, the English expressions have been verified through correspondence with professors in Vietnam and native English speakers, ensuring the study's quality and reliability.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Q UANTITATIVE ANALYSIS
To grasp the abstract concept of power, it is essential to explore various concrete domains The gathered data is categorized into nine sets of conceptual metaphors, which are organized according to three distinct types of conceptual metaphor.
Power is the human body
Power is the human activities
Power is up, no power is down
The specific number of each kind of conceptual metaphors is presented in Table 3.1
Power is the human body
Power is the human activities
Power is up, no power is down
Table 3.1: Quantity and percentage of conceptual metaphors about power in English and Vietnamese idioms
Table 3.1 highlights the variations in the occurrence and percentage of conceptual metaphors related to power across two languages Structural metaphors dominate the data, comprising 71.1% of all identified types, indicating their high frequency In contrast, orientational metaphors represent 17.5%, securing the second position, while the lowest frequency is attributed to the remaining metaphor types.
24 ontological metaphors which make up 11.4% in total
The table below will show the percentage as well as quantity of structural metaphors used in both English and Vietnamese idioms
Structural metaphors English idioms Vietnamese idioms
Power is the human body 9 7.9% 7 6.1%
Power is the human activities 17 14.9% 11 9.7%
Table 3.2: Quantity and percentage of structural metaphors about power in
Noticeably, Table 3.2 shows a set of concrete concepts or source domains used to denote the abstract concept or target domain of power
The highest occurrence of conceptual metaphor about power is “power is human activities” which make up 24.6% 17 expressions in English 11 in Vietnamese of
The article highlights the prevalence of idioms, noting that the conceptual metaphor "power is physical forces" ranks second with 16.7%, just under 6% less than the top-ranked metaphor This indicates that power is intricately linked to human experiences, as the abstract notion of power is often interpreted through various concrete concepts familiar to humans Conversely, the metaphor "power as a thief" has the lowest occurrence in this analysis.
“power is a game” which account for 0.9%
Power is often conceptualized through various source domains, including the human body, animals, and familial relationships, which account for 14%, 8.8%, and 5.3% respectively (Kovecses, 2010:18) This indicates that while power can be expressed through numerous concrete concepts in both languages, certain metaphors in one language may lack direct equivalents in the other The varying prevalence of these metaphors further illustrates the distinct ways in which power is represented across different languages.
The following table will illustrate clearly the number and percentage of this conceptualization in both English and Vietnamese idioms
Ontological metaphors English idioms Vietnamese idioms
Table 3.3: Quantity and percentage of ontological metaphors about power in English and Vietnamese idioms
Ontological metaphors represent the lowest category of conceptual metaphors related to power, comprising only 11.4% of the total Notably, there is a significant disparity in the expression of power as a container, with 13 instances identified in English, while there is no equivalent expression in Vietnamese.
Orientational metaphors English idioms Vietnamese idioms
Power is up, no power is down 11 9.6% 9 7.9%
Table 3.4: Quantity and percentage of orientational metaphors about power in English and Vietnamese idioms
In my analysis, orientational metaphors represent 17.5% of the conceptual metaphors related to power, with 20 idioms identified—11 in English and 9 in Vietnamese Despite the differences in spatial orientation between the two languages, as noted by Lakoff and Johnson (1980), the data reveals a significant similarity: both languages associate having control or power with an upward orientation, while the absence of power is linked to a downward orientation.
Q UALITATIVE ANALYSIS
This article presents a qualitative analysis of 40 idioms related to power in both English and Vietnamese, categorized into nine sets of conceptual metaphors The analysis progresses through structural metaphors, ontological metaphors, and orientational metaphors, following the sequence outlined in Table 3.1 Key terms within each idiom are emphasized in italics to highlight their significance in the discussion.
3.2.1 Power is the human body
Kovecses (2010:18) highlights that the human body serves as a prominent source domain in conceptual metaphors, primarily because it is well-defined and familiar to us However, this familiarity does not imply that we utilize every aspect of this domain when interpreting metaphors.
27 abstract targets The aspects that are especially used in metaphorical comprehension in this study include three elements hand and hair
(1) To lay hand on someone
(2) Get/have by short hairs
(3) To rule sb/sth with an iron hand
Idioms featuring the word "hand" are prevalent, as "hand" symbolizes power and control For instance, the phrase "keep something in hand" signifies having the right to use or possess it, highlighting the connection between hands and authority.
In both English and Vietnamese, metaphors equating "power" with the "human body" are prevalent, highlighting the significance of physicality in expressing authority Notably, nearly 50% of Vietnamese idioms incorporate the element of "hand," emphasizing the connection between physical actions and power dynamics.
English and Vietnamese idioms, “hand” is a part of the human body which is often used than other parts to denote power
(4) Cờ đến tay ai người ấy phất
Besides the idioms with “hand”, other elements like “mặt (face)”, “tai (ear)”, and “miệng (mouth)”are found in Vietnamese idioms
(6) Cả vú lấp miệng em
In both English and Vietnamese, the middle and upper parts of the human body symbolize power, with idioms featuring "hand" being the most prevalent However, English utilizes these expressions more frequently than Vietnamese.
3.2.2 Power is the human activities
Speakers express their power not only through language but also through their daily activities Verbs that indicate human actions and movements, such as call, dance, carry, twist, draw, and eat, play a crucial role in demonstrating this power.
28 to express metaphors “power is human activities”
In English, the concept of power is often associated with weighty responsibilities that individuals must bear, as illustrated in example (11) Additionally, power can signify obedience to authority, as demonstrated in examples (9) and (10) My research identified 17 English idioms and 11 Vietnamese idioms reflecting this theme, indicating that such metaphors are prevalent in both languages In Vietnamese, everyday verbs like "eat," "talk," and "shout" are creatively combined with other words in idioms to convey the notion of power.
The action in example (14) closely resembles the English phrase "point the finger at someone," highlighting the authority of individuals in higher positions over those in lower ones.
Although there is a big gap in the number of idioms found in both languages, they are similar in using diverse activities and movements to denote the concept of power
In English, three idioms illustrate the concept of "power as animals," highlighting how the animal domain serves as a rich source for understanding human behavior and characteristics According to Kovecses (2010:19), humans are often described using traits associated with animals, such as dogs, tigers, or foxes Just as larger or stronger animals possess more power, individuals with greater physical strength or political authority often hold the ability to exert control over others.
(15) Big fish in a small pond
Power is understood as a big fish in (15) which has more advantage than others
The phrase "clip sb's wings" refers to a situation where a person in a position of authority restricts the rights or abilities of others, limiting their freedom and potential Just as wings are essential for a bird, insect, or bat to fly and thrive, the ability to act freely is crucial for individuals to grow and exert their influence Without this freedom, like a bird without wings, one cannot fully develop or harness their power.
In Vietnamese, there are seven expressions that compare people to animals, particularly fish, which is double the number found in English These idioms highlight the similarities between human behavior and animal characteristics, emphasizing the cultural significance of such comparisons.
(17) Cá mè đè cá chép
Contrasted to the image of small animals with clipped wings in English, “hùm” (tiger) is used in Vietnamese to express the metaphor “power is animals”
In Vietnamese culture, “hùm” (tiger) is called as king or lord of animals and they are also the symbol of power
Animals, particularly fish and tigers, serve as powerful symbols for comparing human traits and behaviors In both English and Vietnamese idioms, fish often represent strength and dominance, highlighting their significance in cultural expressions.
In the scope of my study, there exist no English idioms that use the metaphor
“power is relatives” Contrasted to English, 6 idioms of this type are found in Vietnamese
This thesis examines the dynamics of power within the realms of society and politics, deliberately excluding idioms related to familial power structures An example of a familial idiom is “quyền huynh, thế phụ” (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:371), which signifies that upon the father's death, the eldest brother assumes his role.
30 of the most powerful people in that family
Vietnamese culture places a strong emphasis on family values and collective identity, making it common to use terms that describe familial relationships, such as "grandfather" and "father," in idiomatic expressions to signify authority and power.
(20) Con ông sấm cháu ông sét
In society or even in politics, if one person was born in the rich and powerful family, he or she will have more advantage and power than others
In contrast to English, which lacks idioms that convey the metaphor "power is a thief," Vietnamese offers an expression that effectively illustrates this concept This Vietnamese idiom employs the verb "rob," highlighting the act of taking something from someone without their consent, thereby emphasizing the corrupting nature of power.
This means that people with power in politics take their advantage to make illegal actions or make others reluctantly follow their rules
S IMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES
Conceptual metaphors related to power appear in varying quantities within English and Vietnamese idioms Analysis of the data reveals nine types of source domains categorized into three main conceptual metaphor types: structural metaphors, ontological metaphors, and orientational metaphors While the frequency of each metaphor type differs between the two languages, there are notable similarities in certain expressions.
The concept of power is expressed through conceptual metaphors in both English and Vietnamese idioms, with a comparable frequency in the collected data Specifically, both languages feature two main types of conceptual metaphors: structural metaphors and orientational metaphors.
The conceptual metaphor "power is the human body" illustrates the structural aspect of power, linking it to a corresponding set of source domains This metaphor is prevalent in both English and Vietnamese cultures, with a significant emphasis on hand elements, as hands are often regarded as symbols of power.
34 because keeping something in hand means that you have the right to control it or power to it
Power is often understood through human activities, appearing frequently in both English and Vietnamese, with occurrences of 14.9% and 9.6%, respectively Additionally, there are 10 idioms that depict the metaphor "power is animals," with 3 in English and 7 in Vietnamese, highlighting the similarities in how both languages conceptualize this idea.
Power dynamics are often illustrated through idiomatic expressions in both English and Vietnamese, drawing from the source domain of physical forces In Vietnamese, phrases like "Đè đầu cưỡi cổ" and terms such as "firmly press" or "ride and saw" convey a sense of overwhelming strength exerted by one individual over another, rendering the latter powerless Similarly, English idioms utilize strong verbs like "bend" and "pull," as seen in expressions like "Bending the rules" and "Pull strings," to depict the manipulation of power and influence.
Orientational metaphors are present in both English and Vietnamese idioms, reflecting shared physical and cultural experiences As noted by Lakoff and Johnson, these metaphors illustrate how both languages conceptualize spatial orientation, highlighting the interconnectedness of language and cultural understanding.
“power is up, no power is down”
To sum up, power always exists in every corner of our lives; therefore; conceptual metaphors about power in English and Vietnamese idioms are rich with a set of experiences
Conceptual metaphors related to power exhibit both similarities and differences in English and Vietnamese idioms Analysis of the collected data reveals nine distinct source domains, which can be categorized into three main types of conceptual metaphors.
The prevalence of structural metaphors varies between English and Vietnamese, with distinct differences in their representation For instance, the conceptual metaphor "power is human activities" appears in 17 English idioms, accounting for 14.9% of the total, while only 11 corresponding idioms are identified in Vietnamese.
There are two types of metaphors namely “power is a thief” and “power is relatives” which are not found in English idioms
The ontological metaphor "power is a container" appears exclusively in English, represented by 13 distinct idioms This metaphor suggests that the abstract concept of power is perceived as having boundaries, often indicated by terms such as "in," "out of," and "under."
In terms of orientational metaphors, the numbers of idioms which convey the metaphor “power is up, no power is down” are not similar in the two languages
To sum up, the similarities and differences in denoting the concept of power also help people understand deeply about the cultures of the two language community
RECAPITULATION
The study of metaphors in idioms is both fascinating and complex This research focuses specifically on the conceptual metaphor of power as it relates to politics and society in English idioms, while also comparing these findings with Vietnamese idioms to identify similarities and differences between the two languages Due to its scope, the study does not encompass all aspects of power, such as family dynamics or gender influence.
This research highlights the conceptual similarities between two languages in their metaphors for power, including representations such as "power is the human body," "power is human activities," "power is animals," "power is physical forces," and "power is up while no power is down." Additionally, English idioms depict power as "a thief," "a game," or "a container," whereas Vietnamese idioms conceptualize power in terms of "relatives." The study reveals both similarities and differences in how these metaphors express the concept of power, illustrating the nuanced ways cultures interpret this fundamental idea.
In both English and Vietnamese idioms, the hand is frequently used to symbolize power, more so than other body parts Additionally, while English idioms may incorporate hair as a symbol of strength, Vietnamese expressions often reference the face and mouth in conveying similar meanings.
IMPLICATIONS
2.1 Implications for teaching and learning
Metaphors and idioms, while fascinating, can pose challenges for students of English Research has shown that conceptual metaphors play a significant role in everyday language and life As such, educators should emphasize the importance and application of these metaphors in daily communication Additionally, teachers should clarify the structure and meaning of idioms, highlighting their distinctions from other language forms such as proverbs, collocations, and sayings.
The role of conceptual metaphor is crucial in understanding idioms, as learners frequently struggle with their meanings due to the inability to deduce them from individual word definitions Additionally, educators can facilitate the translation of English idioms to Vietnamese and vice versa by incorporating cultural knowledge into their teaching methods.
According to conceptual metaphor theory, various elements are essential for understanding metaphors, including target and source domains, and the mapping process that relates abstract concepts to concrete ones There are three primary types of metaphors: structural, ontological, and orientational Each type provides a framework for teachers to explain how metaphors are conceptualized, highlighting cultural differences that are particularly evident in orientational metaphors.
This study aims to assist students in vocabulary acquisition and improve their reading comprehension By utilizing conceptual metaphors, students can grasp abstract concepts more effectively, which aids in vocabulary expansion As students enhance their vocabulary, their reading skills are expected to improve significantly.
Idioms are unique expressions within each language, reflecting cultural distinctions that set languages apart Their fixed structure and meaning can pose challenges for translators, as they may face situations where an idiom lacks an equivalent in the target language, has a similar counterpart but differs in contextual use, or is employed in both literal and idiomatic senses simultaneously.
Idioms are a reflection of cultural traditions and national character When translating idioms, especially those related to power, between English and Vietnamese, it is essential to find idioms with similar meanings and forms or to paraphrase them effectively to ensure clarity for readers.
Understanding idioms across languages can be challenging, as demonstrated by the phrase "big fish in a small pond," which translates to the Vietnamese "chột làm vua xứ mù." While direct equivalents are rare, they are ideal when found Conversely, some idioms, like "crack the whip," lack a direct translation, making paraphrasing the most effective approach for conveying their meaning.
The phrase "use authority or power to make somebody work very hard, usually by treating them in a strict way" refers to the act of exerting control or influence over someone, often through intimidation or strict measures In Vietnamese, this concept is expressed as "đe doạ ai bằng quyền lực," highlighting the use of power to compel hard work and compliance.
When translating English idioms related to power into Vietnamese, and vice versa, it is essential for translators to consider both the structural aspects of the idioms and their figurative meanings, as well as the cultural nuances they embody.
LIMITATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY
This thesis explores the similarities and differences in conceptual metaphors related to power within English and Vietnamese idioms While it may not serve as a comprehensive reference for all students, we have diligently investigated and analyzed the topic, acknowledging that some errors may arise from limited materials and time constraints The study focuses specifically on power in societal and political contexts, drawing data exclusively from idioms, which means that other sources like proverbs and sayings warrant further examination in future research Additionally, the limited sample size may not fully capture the richness of both languages in expressing the concept of power Given that power permeates all aspects of life, further studies on this theme are essential.
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LIST OF CONCEPTUAL METAPHORS ABOUT POWER IN ENGLISH IDIOMS
No English idioms Explanation Vietnamese meaning
1 Lay/get your hands on somebody (Oxford
Catch sb who has done something wrong
2 Get/ have sb by the short hairs (Oxford University,
Have sb in a position where they must agree what you want
Bị ai kiểm soát hoàn toàn
A way of treating people that is much stronger Độc đoán, phạt nặng
4 Keep one‟s hand in (Spears
Remain involved in something Điều hành
Stop sb doing st by taking away their power
Ngăn chặn quyền lực của ai
7 The dead hand of st
An influence that controls st Ảnh hưởng
8 Have sb eating out of your hand (Oxford University,
2006:104) have sb completely in your control
Hoàn toàn kiểm soát ai
9 To rule sb/st with an iron hand (Oxford University,
2006:333 control sb/st in very strong way
Cai trị ai/cái gì bằng bàn tay sắt-Kiểm soát chặt chẽ
No English idioms Explanation Vietnamese meaning
1 Lay down the law (Oxford
Give sb express your opinion in an aggressive way when you have no right to do so Đưa ra quy tắc
Be in control/ control the others Kiểm soát/ điều khiển
Be important or able to influence sb
Dance to sb‟s tune (Oxford
University, 2006:81) Do whatever sb tell you to do
Tuân theo người có quyền
Point the finger at sb
2006:297) Accuse sb of doing st Quở trách, buộc tội ai
Keep a tight rein on sb
2006:321) Control sb Nắm quyền hành
7 Have the run of st (Oxford
University, 2006:333) Allow to do st freely Có quyền làm gì
Have/keep sb on a string
Make sb do what you want because you have control over them
Có thế lực để làm theo ý mình
Put the squezze on sb
Put pressure on sb to act in a particular way
Tạo áp lực cho ai làm gì
Put sb in their place
Remind sb forcefully of their position at work or in society
Quở trách, nhắc nhở ai về địa vị của người đó
Put sb through it (Oxford
University, 2006:310) Force sb to do st difficult Bắt ai làm việc khó khăn
Use your authority to stop sb doing st
Dùng quyền lực ngăn chặn ai làm gì
Twist sb around your little finger (Oxford University,
Be able to influence sb very easily
Chi phối, chế ngự ai
Force or persuade sb to do st Buộc ai làm gì
Be forced to do st unpleasant
Bị bắt buộc làm gì
University, 2006:104) Be force to admit st Buộc phải thừa nhận
No English idioms Explanation Vietnamese meaning
1 Big fish in a small pond
Important person in a small group
Chột làm vua xứ mù
Limit sb‟s power Ngăn chặn quyền hành của ai
A person, group or country that is better or more powerful than all
No English idioms Explanation Vietnamese meaning
1 Play fast and loose with sb/st: (Oxford University,
Treat sb/st in a way that you feel no responsibility for them
Hành động vô trách nhiệm/ ngược đãi bất kể quyền lợi của họ
No English idioms Explanation Vietnamese meaning
Allow sb to break the rules
Use your authority or power to make sb work very hard Đe doạ ai bằng quyền lực
Force sb to do st differently buộc ai làm gì ngoài ý muốn của họ
Do st to make people take action quickly (3,
Làm điều gì đó khiến người khác phải làm gì nhanh chóng
Make sb do st quickly Bắt ai làm gì nhanh chóng
6 A force to be reckoned with
A person that has a lot of power and influence
7 Pull strings for sb (Oxford
Use influence in order to get an advantage of sb
Chi phối, ảnh hưởng ai
8 Pull rank on sb (Oxford
Make unfair use your authority
Khẳng định mình bằng chức vụ hay địa vị
9 Take a hold (Oxford Have complete control Hoàn toàn kiểm
University, 2006:182) over sb/st soát ai
No English idioms Explanation Vietnamese meaning
Under sb‟s influence, in sb‟s control
2 An iron hand in a velvet glove (Oxford University,
Harsh treatment of sb that is hidden behind a gentle manner
Bàn tay sắt bọc nhung/ đối xử với ai nhẹ nhàng nhưng cực kì độc ác
3 Take sb/st in hand: (Oxford
University, 2006:162) begin to control or look after sb/st
4 Take the law into your own hands (Oxford University,
Take action personally against sb who has broken the law or done st wrong, instead of calling the police
5 Have sb in the palm of your hand (Oxford
Have sb completely under your control or influence
Hoàn toàn kiểm soát ai
6 Get/let sb off the hook
Allow sb to escape from difficult situation
Giúp ai thoát khỏi trách nhiệm
The hands of somebody: be taken, captured or obtained by sb
8 Out of sb‟s hands (Oxford
No longer in the control of or responsibility of sb
Completely controlled or influenced by
Bị kiểm soát, chế ngự
10 Get out of hand (Oxford
Become difficult or impossible to control
11 Take st/sb off sb‟s hands
Take st away from sb or take responsibility from sb Đỡ cho ai nhẹ bớt/ chịu trách nhiệm cho ai
University, 2006:163) no longer the responsibility of sb
Không còn là trách nhiệm của ai
University, 2006:200) being taken care by sb Dưới sự kiểm soát của ai
3.1 Power is up, no power is down
1 Have friends in high places
2006:140) know important people with power and influence
Quen biết người có quyền
2 At the top of the tree/ladder
At the highest position in a career
Người có địa vị cao nhất
3 Lord it over sb (Oxford
Act as if you are better or more important than
Chế ngự, kiểm soát ai
4 Get/have the whip hand over sb (Oxford University,
Have power or control (over sb)
5 Come/go up in the world
Become more successful Thăng tiến
6 Come/go down in the world (Oxford University,
Become less successful Mất địa vị xã hội
7 High man on the totem pole
The person at the top of the hierarchy
Người có quyền cao nhất
People with power and authority
9 Have the upper hands over sb (Oxford University,
Get power or control over sb
People who are in highest social class
Người ở tầng lớp cao nhất trong xã hội
11 Have one up on sb (Oxford
Be in a better position than sb
Có chức vụ cao hơn
LIST OF CONCEPTUAL METAPHORS ABOUT POWER IN
1.1 Power is the human body
1 Tay hòm chìa khoá (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:402)
2 Cờ đến tay ai người ấy phất (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:99)
3 Cờ đã đến tay (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:99)
4 Cả vú lấp miệng em (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:68)
5 Tai to mặt lớn/ mặt to tai lớn (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:293)
6 Rộng miệng cả tiếng (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:379)
7 Có máu mặt (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:92)
1 Ngồi mát ăn bát vàng (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:234)
2 Hét ra lửa (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:160)
3 Thét ra lửa (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:160)
4 Ăn to nói lớn (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:45)
5 Chỉ tay năm ngón (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:83)
6 Ăn sống nuốt tươi (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:43)
7 Xưng hùng, xưng bá (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:496)
9 Quyền thu, quyền phát (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:371)
10 Quyền sinh, quyền sát (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:371)
11 Tàn che, ngựa cưỡi (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:400)
1 Cá mè đè cá chép(Nguyễn Lân, 2014:59)
2 Cá lớn nuốt cá bé(Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:68)
3 Cáo mượn oai hùm (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:70
4 Cá mè đè cá chép(Nguyễn Lân, 2014:59)
5 Cá lớn nuốt cá bé(Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:68)
6 Có sừng, có mỏ(Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:93)
7 Có tai, có mỏ (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:93)
1 Con ông cháu cha (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:97)
2 Con ông sấm cháu ông sét (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:112)
3 Con ông cống cháu ông nghè (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:112)
4 Con ông thánh cháu ông thần (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:112)
5 Con dòng, cháu giống (Nguyễn Lực & Lương Văn Đang, 1993:96)
6 Đàn anh kẻ cả (Nguyễn Lân, 2014:140)
1 1 Ăn cướp cơm chim ( Nguyễn Lân, 2014:128)