INTRODUCTION
Rationale
English is the most widely spoken language globally, significantly contributing to societal development It serves as an essential tool for communication and influences various aspects of life positively.
Idioms and proverbs play a crucial role in the English language, enhancing both spoken and written communication They make observations and explanations more engaging, as noted in Horby's Idiom Dictionary For English learners, grasping the use of idioms and proverbs is essential for expanding vocabulary and gaining a deeper understanding of the language These expressions are prevalent in various contexts, from casual conversations to formal business meetings Additionally, they are frequently found in newspapers, where writers utilize them to create captivating headlines and articles.
The study of idioms has captivated a diverse audience, including researchers, students, and even young children, due to their insightful reflections on life and human behavior This exploration has revealed valuable cultural nuances within both English and Vietnamese societies Since idiomatic expressions dominate native English speech, mastering them enhances our retention of language and makes communication more engaging and effective Consequently, I chose to focus my research on idioms and proverbs, which are abundant in sources such as animals and fruits.
This study focuses on English color idioms and proverbs, aiming to enhance readers' understanding and application in communication By exploring these expressions, the paper seeks to provide valuable insights that can improve conversational skills and cultural comprehension.
Scope of the study
Idioms and proverbs represent a complex aspect of language, making it challenging to encompass all color-related expressions in my graduation paper Therefore, the focus is narrowed to key colors, specifically black, white, red, blue, green, and pink, to provide a comprehensive analysis of their meanings and usage.
Aims of the study
Idioms and proverbs are an extremely difficult topic, which is hardly understood by foreign learners of English, and even native speakers Being aware of this fact,
I value the idioms and proverbs that reflect the attitudes and behaviors of speakers While spelling errors can often be overlooked due to context, incorrect usage of idioms or proverbs can lead to confusion and misunderstanding Consequently, my research focuses on this critical aspect of language use.
- Collecting and classifying some idioms and proverbs which are usually used in Vietnamese and English language
- Comparing and contrasting some similarities and differences between these two cultures
- Giving some techniques to help learner use idioms and proverbs in a correct way
Methods of the study
To effectively learn English and Vietnamese idioms and proverbs associated with key colors, it is essential for learners to understand the significant roles these expressions play in daily life The study process employs various methods to enhance recognition and appreciation of these cultural phrases.
- Material analysis: reading reference books to find and collect needed information On the other hand, collecting the specific examples for study
- Consultations: having discussion with the supervisor, experts and friends
- Comparison and contrast: selecting, comparing and contrasting examples in English idioms and proverbs and Vietnamese ones in order to find the similarities and differences.
Design of the study
This article is well-structured into three main sections for easy navigation and understanding Part I serves as the Introduction, featuring five subsections: Rationale, Scope, Aims, Methods, and Design of the study Part II, the Development section, includes three chapters: Chapter 1 provides a theoretical background on language and culture, along with definitions and common features of idioms and proverbs Chapter 2 focuses on idioms and proverbs related to seven key colors in English and Vietnamese: black, white, red, blue, green, pink, while acknowledging time and knowledge constraints Chapter 3 addresses challenges faced by English learners and offers suggested solutions Finally, Part III concludes the paper by summarizing the key issues discussed in the preceding chapters.
DEVELOPMENT
Language has been the subject of extensive study from various perspectives over the years Ancient Greek philosophers discussed its proper use and purpose, while modern scholars have focused on its production and perception To fully grasp the concept of language, it is essential to address the fundamental question: "What is language?"
Ferdinand de Saussure was a pioneering scholar who emphasized that language should not only be understood through historical descriptions but also through the perspectives of its everyday users He argued that even those without formal linguistic training are competent speakers, offering valuable insights into language as a social phenomenon Saussure introduced the concepts of synchronic analysis, focusing on language at a specific point in time, and diachronic analysis, which examines historical linguistic forms He distinguished between "parole," the actual use of language, and "langue," the underlying structure of a language.
Language can be understood as a behavior, drawing from behaviorist psychology and philosophy This perspective emphasizes the diverse languages spoken by different individuals, shifting the focus from traditional linguistic analysis to the practical use of language in various contexts.
Linguists who advocate for observational data collection emphasize that the meaning of sentences cannot be directly observed and must be analyzed through introspective judgments They define language as the complete set of utterances possible within a speech community, highlighting the importance of human behavior and interaction in understanding linguistic data.
Language can be viewed from two perspectives: one as an external object comprising the spoken and written utterances of people, and the other as an internal object, representing the knowledge stored in the minds of its speakers.
Basing on the Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary, we have a definition about language like:
"Language is the system of communication in speech and writing that is used by people of a particular country or area."
(Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary, the 7th edition, 1948: page 862)
Each country has a unique communication style, often using its native language for interactions among locals Within a nation, people typically converse in the most commonly spoken language When countries engage with one another, they primarily rely on language as a means of communication English serves as the global lingua franca, enabling international communities to share their perspectives With over 6,000 living languages worldwide, the diversity of communication reflects the rich cultural tapestry of our planet.
Language is a uniquely human ability that facilitates complex communication, serving as a vital tool for interaction and cooperation through both spoken and written forms Each language belongs to a specific social community, and while some languages may remain undeveloped or lack a written form due to historical factors, they still serve as remarkable means of conveying ideas and transmitting human culture.
Culture is often celebrated and held in high esteem by individuals, but what does it truly mean? Understanding the definition of culture and its importance is essential for appreciating its role in shaping both individual identities and societal dynamics.
Culture is a fundamental aspect of every society, encompassing learned behaviors and lifestyles that unite individuals It plays a crucial role in societal existence by fostering connections among people While culture is often associated with tangible elements like music, food, art, and literature, these are merely manifestations of a deeper cultural framework rather than the definition of culture itself.
The term was first used in this way by the pioneer English Anthropologist Edward B Taylor’s book, Primitive Culture, (1871: page 4) Taylor said that
“Culture is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society”
Culture is a shared way of life that encompasses the beliefs, values, norms, and behaviors of a specific group of people It includes the principles that guide human existence and the technologies used for survival Culture not only fosters similarities among group members but also distinguishes them from others, creating a unique identity This collective understanding and patterned behavior enable individuals to coexist harmoniously while maintaining their distinctiveness from different cultures around the world.
Culture encompasses all historically developed frameworks for living, both explicit and implicit, rational and irrational, that serve as potential guides for human behavior at any given time (Kluckhohn & Kelly, 1945).
Basing on Parson, T (1949) Essays in Sociological Theory Glencoe, IL, (page
Culture encompasses the behaviors and products of human actions that are transmitted from one generation to another, separate from biological inheritance Children do not naturally inherit their parents' cultural experiences; instead, they learn and adopt these through socialization processes.
As said by Nguyen Quang, Intercultural Communication, Vietnam national university, Hanoi college of foreign languages press, page 3: "Culture: a shared
20 background (for example, national, ethnic, religious) resulting from a common language and communication style, customs, belief, attitude and values
In this context, "culture" refers to the informal and often concealed patterns of human interactions, expressions, and shared viewpoints within a community, rather than traditional elements like art or food Much like an iceberg, where the majority is submerged, the most significant influences of culture on individuals remain unseen The visible aspects of culture do not necessarily lead to cross-cultural misunderstandings; rather, it is the hidden elements that profoundly impact behavior and interpersonal interactions.
Culture is learned from family and surroundings rather than being innate, as individuals can adopt the culture of the society in which they grow up, regardless of their place of birth Additionally, many people feel compelled to adhere to the beliefs and traditions of their own culture, even if they do not fully align with certain ideologies within it.
Culture is a complex tool which every individual has to learn to survive in a society It is the means through which people interact with others in the society
Culture operates subconsciously, shaping our perceptions of what is normal and natural When encountering different societies, their unique cultural practices may appear unusual to us It's essential to recognize that each society possesses a distinct culture that serves as its foundation Furthermore, culture is not static; it continually evolves and is influenced by interactions with other cultures and societies.
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Language and Culture
Language has been the subject of extensive study across various perspectives, from the insights of ancient Greek philosophers on its proper use and purpose to modern scholars' analyses of its production and perception To fully grasp the concept of language, it is essential to address the fundamental question: "What is language?"
Ferdinand de Saussure was a pioneering scholar who defined language as a complex social phenomenon, emphasizing that historical descriptions alone are insufficient for understanding it He argued that valuable insights about language can be gained from its everyday users, who may lack formal theoretical knowledge yet are proficient speakers Saussure proposed that language use, or "parole," reflects its contemporary structure, allowing for synchronic analysis—examining language at a specific point in time—alongside diachronic analysis, which looks at historical linguistic forms This distinction between language as a system and its practical use highlights the multifaceted nature of linguistic study.
Language can be understood as a behavior influenced by behaviorist psychology and philosophy This perspective emphasizes the diverse languages utilized by different individuals, shifting the focus from traditional linguistic analysis to the practical use of language in various contexts.
Linguists believe that the best way to gather linguistic data is through the observation of human behavior and interaction, as they assume that the meaning of sentences cannot be directly observed Instead, it must be analyzed through introspective judgments Consequently, they define language as the complete set of utterances that can be produced within a speech community.
Language can be viewed from two perspectives: one sees it as an external entity composed of spoken and written utterances, while the other perceives it as an internal construct, representing the knowledge stored in the minds of its speakers.
Basing on the Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary, we have a definition about language like:
"Language is the system of communication in speech and writing that is used by people of a particular country or area."
(Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary, the 7th edition, 1948: page 862)
Every country has its unique communication style, with individuals using their native languages to interact within their regions In addition, people communicate in the dominant language of their country When nations engage with one another, language serves as the primary means of communication, and English has emerged as the international lingua franca for global discourse With over 6,000 living languages worldwide, the diversity of languages reflects the rich tapestry of human communication.
Language is a uniquely human ability that allows for complex communication through speaking and writing It serves as a vital tool for interaction and cooperation among individuals within a social community While some languages may be considered primitive or lack a written form due to historical factors, they remain powerful means of conveying ideas and transmitting culture.
Culture is often held in high esteem, but what does it truly mean? Understanding the definition of culture and its importance is essential for both individuals and society as a whole.
Culture is a fundamental aspect of every society, shaping learned behaviors and lifestyles It plays a crucial role in uniting individuals within a community While culture encompasses various expressions such as music, food, art, and literature, these elements are merely products of culture rather than its true definition.
The term was first used in this way by the pioneer English Anthropologist Edward B Taylor’s book, Primitive Culture, (1871: page 4) Taylor said that
“Culture is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society”
Culture is a shared way of life among a group of people, encompassing their values, norms, and survival techniques It reflects the collective beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that enable individuals to coexist harmoniously while distinguishing them from others Culture shapes how people relate to one another and adapt to their environment, highlighting both their similarities and differences with other groups.
Culture encompasses all historically developed frameworks for living—both explicit and implicit, rational and irrational—that serve as potential guides for human behavior at any given time, as defined by Kluckhohn and Kelly in their 1945 work.
Basing on Parson, T (1949) Essays in Sociological Theory Glencoe, IL, (page
Culture encompasses the behaviors and products of human actions that are transmitted from one generation to the next, independent of biological inheritance Children do not inherently inherit their parents' cultural experiences; instead, they acquire these through socialization processes.
As said by Nguyen Quang, Intercultural Communication, Vietnam national university, Hanoi college of foreign languages press, page 3: "Culture: a shared
20 background (for example, national, ethnic, religious) resulting from a common language and communication style, customs, belief, attitude and values
In this context, "culture" refers to the informal and often concealed patterns of human interactions, expressions, and shared viewpoints within a community, rather than traditional elements like art or food Much like an iceberg, where the majority is submerged, the most significant influences of culture on an individual are often hidden from view While the visible aspects of culture may not always lead to cross-cultural misunderstandings, it is the underlying, hidden elements that profoundly impact behavior and interpersonal interactions.
Culture is acquired through family and environmental influences rather than being biologically inherited Individuals can adopt the culture of their upbringing, even if it differs from their place of birth Additionally, many people may feel compelled to adhere to their cultural beliefs and traditions, despite not fully embracing all aspects of those ideologies.
Culture is a complex tool which every individual has to learn to survive in a society It is the means through which people interact with others in the society
Culture operates subconsciously, shaping our perceptions of what is normal and natural When encountering different societies, their unique cultural practices may seem unusual to us It's essential to recognize that each society has its own distinct culture, which serves as its foundation Furthermore, culture is not static; it continually evolves and is influenced by interactions with other cultures and societies.
An overview of idioms
Idioms are more than just colloquial expressions; they are a unique form of language rich in cultural significance, encompassing elements like history, geography, religion, and customs These expressions can be found in various contexts, including formal writing, slang, and poetry.
To research idioms, first of all, we must well understand idiom's definition There are many scholars defining what an idiom is According to Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary:
"A group of words whose meaning is different from the meanings of the individual words"
(Oxford Advanced Learner's dictionary, 1948: page 707)
An idiom is a phrase or expression that conveys a meaning distinct from its literal interpretation, often relying on metaphorical language Understanding idioms typically requires a deep familiarity with the language and the cultural context from which they originate, making them more accessible to fluent speakers.
We also can know it more clearly by reviewing the following definition from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:
An idiom is a phrase whose meaning is not derived from the literal definitions of its individual words but instead conveys a figurative meaning understood through common usage In linguistics, idioms are often considered figures of speech that challenge the principle of compositionality, although recent discussions have sparked debate on this topic.
The English idiom "to kick the bucket" means "to die," a meaning that cannot be inferred from the individual words "kick" and "bucket." While it could literally describe striking a bucket with a foot, native speakers seldom use it in that context This expression also lacks a direct translation in other languages.
24 expression in Polish is “to kick the calendar”, with the calendar being as detached from its usual meaning as the bucket in the English phrase is
Idioms are words, phrases, or expressions that are unusual grammatically, as in
Idioms like "under the weather" and "storm in a teacup" highlight the complexities of language, as their meanings cannot be deduced from the individual words The phrase "storm in a teacup" specifically refers to exaggerating a minor issue Every language is rich with idiomatic expressions, which often pose challenges for foreign learners.
In fact, this is what makes idioms all more confusing
E.g.: “Save for the rainy day”
This idiom means preparing for the rainy day, literally However, it means building up a fund to meet emergencies, idiomatically
Idioms are unique expressions that reflect the culture and ideals of a language, consisting of set phrases and short sentences that are vibrant and true to life They often cannot be understood by interpreting their individual words literally In a broader context, idioms encompass colloquialisms, catchphrases, slang, and proverbs, showcasing the richness of language and communication.
In summary, an idiom is a phrase whose collective meaning differs from the literal definitions of its individual words, often posing challenges for English learners in comprehension.
2.2 Some common features of idioms
There are many different features of idioms but we can find some similarities between them
An idiom is a multiword expression where its individual components can be inflected similarly to words in a phrase This inflection typically adheres to the same pattern as that of the idiom's literal meaning.
E.g.: "have a bee in one's bonnet" = feeling anxious
Second, an idiom behaves as a single semantic unit
It tends to have some measure of internal cohesion such that a literal counterpart that is made up of a single word can often replace it
It resists interruption by other words whether they are semantically compatible or not
E.g.: “do a bunk" = "do a bunk with sb"
Or "be sulky as a bear" = "be as sulky as a bear"
It resists reordering of its component parts
E.g.: "let the cat out of the bag" = "the cat got left out the bag"
Idioms possess a unique syntactic structure that is non-productive, meaning that only specific lexemes can be combined within them Replacing any word with another from the same general lexical category will alter or completely eliminate the idiomatic meaning of the expression.
E.g.: "eat one's words" = “eat one's sentence"
Lastly, it is syntactic anomalous It has unusual grammatical structure
In conclusion, idiom contains many common features such as: multiword expression, single semantic unit, non-productive syntactic structure and unusual grammatical structure.
An overview of proverbs
Proverbs serve various purposes in communication, often allowing speakers to express ideas gently or indirectly (Obeng 1996) They can lend authority to arguments by invoking ancestral traditions, and they also enhance the liveliness of conversations Across cultures, the effective use of proverbs is a hallmark of skilled oratory So, what exactly defines a proverb?
Theoretically, there are lots of different ways to define what a proverb is
A proverb is a widely recognized short saying that imparts wisdom, truth, or moral lessons derived from common sense or practical experience These succinct expressions often outline fundamental rules of conduct that people are encouraged to follow Proverbs exist in every language, reflecting shared human experiences and values.
E.g: Every day is not Saturday
Paul Hermadi and Francis Steen define proverbs as concise, memorable, and intuitively persuasive expressions of socially accepted wisdom However, the understanding of proverbs varies significantly in Vietnamese culture.
Từ điển Tiếng Việt, proverbs are defined as "short statements, often expressed
27 with rhythm, which sum up knowledge, life experience and moral lessons of people"
Eg: All lay loads on the willing horse or all men do not follow in the footsteps of their forbears
(http://www.english2share.net/studyvoca/)
According to Oxford Advanced learner Dictionary (1995: 98): “Proverb is a short well-known sentence or phrase that states a general truth about life or gives advice”
Eg: “All cats are grey in the dark”
This proverb means when in the dark, appearances are meaningless, since everything is hard to see or be unseen
To sum up, proverbs are often borrowed from different languages and cultures and sometimes come down to the present through more than one language
3.2 Some common features of proverbs
Even though each specialist has his own definition on proverb, we also can indicate some following common characters of proverbs
The first, proverbs are passed down through time with little change in form
Proverbs are frequently employed metaphorically, and understanding this metaphorical aspect is key to grasping their meanings For instance, phrases like "a stitch in time saves nine," "don't count your chickens before they've hatched," and "don't throw the baby out with the bathwater" are well-known, yet many of us rarely engage in activities such as stitching clothes, counting chickens, or discarding bathwater.
Proverbs utilize various grammatical and theoretical devices that enhance their memorability, such as alliteration, rhyme, and parallel structure They often incorporate the repetition of key words or phrases along with vivid imagery, making them impactful and easy to recall.
The distinction between idioms and proverbs
Using idioms and proverbs enriches language; for instance, "Let the cat out of the bag" refers to revealing a secret, while "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" emphasizes the importance of healthy habits.
Proverbs are old but familiar sayings that usually give advice unlike idioms
Proverbs are complete sentences with a solid structure, grounded in unchanging principles, such as "where there's a will, there's a way" and "one who seeks will find." These concise expressions convey complete ideas and hold significant meaning on their own.
Idioms differ from proverbs in form, structure, and function, as they are not syntactically independent and cannot stand alone as full sentences Instead, idioms are current phrases that need to be integrated into sentences to convey complete meaning Their usage can vary based on time, subject, and object, and understanding an idiom often requires additional context The meaning of a sentence containing an idiom is not derived from its individual words, as idioms encapsulate the essence of speech and must be used in their entirety.
The groups of idioms and proverbs
There are many groups of idioms and proverbs in English as following:
1.1 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of animals
Eg: "have a bee in one's bonnet" = feeling anxious
1.2 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of customs
Eg: “take your hat off to somebody”=to express your admiration and respect what someone has done
1.3 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of natural environment
Eg: “A drop in the ocean” =a very small portion of the amount that we need.
1.4 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of living circumstance
Eg: “Under certain circumstances”= depending on or influenced by something; because of something
1.5 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of colors
Eg: “As white as the driven snow”= very white 1.6 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of numbers
Eg: “a one-track mind”=spend most of time thinking about one subject.
1.7 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of amusement
Eg: “To make a clown of yourself”= to make yourself appear foolish or stupid
1.8 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of food and fruits
Eg: “As cool as a cucumber”= to be calm, to be not nervous or anxious
1.9 Idioms and proverbs from cognition of laboring
Eg: “Labor of love”= Work done for one's satisfaction rather than monetary reward
Due to my limitation of time as well as my knowledge, I only focus on idioms and proverbs relating to some main colors: black white, green, blue, red, and pink.
ENGLISH IDIOMS AND PROVERBS RELATING TO SIX
English idioms and proverbs relating to black
Black is the darkest color, characterized by the absence of light or its complete absorption It is often associated with coal, ebony, and the night sky, serving as the stark opposite of white.
In the Western World, it is the color most commonly associated with mourning, the end, secrets, magic, power, violence, evil, and elegance
To talk about these features, there are some famous idioms:
In the English language, black sheep is an idiom used to describe an odd or disreputable member of a group, especially within a family It is usually given to
The term "black sheep" refers to a member of a group who possesses undesirable traits or lacks certain qualities valued by that group Originating from a genetic phenomenon in sheep, where a recessive gene can produce a black sheep instead of the typical white, this metaphor highlights how these distinct individuals stand out and are often viewed as less valuable due to the difficulty in dyeing their wool.
The term has typically been given negative implications, implying waywardness It derived from the atypical and unwanted presence of other black individuals in flocks of white sheep
Eg: He is the black sheep in his family
In his family, “he” is always considered bad or embarrassing He always causes troubles or be complained by other people
In Vietnamese, the native speakers already do use this feature of black to indicate a person: “kẻ ăn hại”, “người vô dụng”, “người chuyên gây rắc rối”
In contrast, by using another word, Vietnamese people also have the similar
The idiom "phá gia chi tử" refers to an individual who stands out negatively within their family or group due to their behavior or character, often leading to feelings of being an outcast This term describes someone who does not conform to the family's expectations and instead chooses a different path, resulting in a sense of alienation from their relatives.
In Vietnamese culture, the color black is often emphasized through expressions like “đen như than” and “đen như mực,” which translate to “as black as coal” and “as black as ink” in English These phrases convey an extreme level of darkness, highlighting the intensity of the color black in a vivid and culturally significant way.
Black is frequently associated with negativity, including concepts like evil and violence In legal terms, blackmail refers to a crime that entails making unjustified threats to gain something or inflict harm unless specific demands are fulfilled This coercion can involve threats of physical violence, criminal prosecution, or financial extortion aimed at seizing an individual's money or property.
Blackmail is often viewed as a type of extortion, though the two terms have distinct meanings While extortion involves taking personal property through threats of future harm, blackmail specifically refers to threats aimed at preventing someone from engaging in lawful activities It can also include writing defamatory letters or using intimidation to collect unpaid debts In some US states, a key distinction is that blackmail must be documented in writing.
In certain jurisdictions, blackmail frequently occurs in conjunction with robbery, where an offender threatens immediate violence to obtain property unlawfully A typical example includes threats such as "Give me your money or I will shoot you," which exemplifies the use of intimidation to facilitate theft.
In Vietnamese culture, the term "black" is not used to describe actions of threatening for financial gain Instead, the phrase "thư đe dọa tống tiền" is utilized, which refers to the act of coercing someone through a threatening letter to compel them to act in a desired manner, particularly for monetary gain.
The term "in the black" signifies a positive financial state for individuals, corporations, or non-profit organizations, indicating that their assets exceed their liabilities Various factors influence whether an entity's financial status is in the black, or if actions are needed to achieve this favorable condition.
Many individuals and businesses strive to maintain a positive financial status, often referred to as being "in the black." Conversely, when a company has more debt than available funds to cover it, it is described as "in the red."
The practice of using black ink for credits and red ink for debits in accounting dates back to traditional record-keeping methods At the end of each day, the balance sheet would ideally reflect a final tally in black ink, signifying a profit or a break-even point.
Eg: The Company has been in the black since they began to adopt many new ideas to cut costs
To restore profitability, individuals and businesses struggling to operate in the black must take immediate action, often by cutting expenses to free up funds for existing debt and limiting new debt creation While these measures may require temporary sacrifices, they are essential for balancing the budget Once financial stability is achieved, spending restrictions can be eased slightly It is crucial to avoid future financial periods where expenses exceed revenue, as this can lead to ongoing debt challenges.
According to Vietnamese language and culture, the native speakers do not use
In finance, the term "black" is often used to signify profitability and positive financial outcomes, despite its common association with negativity and misfortune Similarly, the phrase "gặt hái nhiều lợi nhuận" conveys the idea of achieving substantial profits, indicating a situation where income exceeds expenses and results in a favorable net income.
English idioms and proverbs relating to white
White is the color associated with purity, reminiscent of fresh snow and the margins of this page It reflects nearly all rays of sunlight, standing in contrast to black or darker shades This color is often used in various contexts, such as in whitepapers and to describe a fair complexion.
White lies are minor, seemingly harmless falsehoods often told for the greater good, aimed at protecting someone's feelings or avoiding awkward situations By sharing only part of the truth, individuals can conceal certain facts while still appearing honest Ultimately, white lies serve to spare emotions and promote happiness, making them an innocent choice in social interactions.
Different from English, in Vietnamese, “white” does not go with “lie” to make a
“harmless untruth” However, Vietnamese people have another term which contains a similar meaning “lời nói dối vô hại” It is also a lie which is a small
36 untruth or harmless, often done to spare someone's feelings or for some other diplomatic reason
Eg: We told Grandma that her cake was delicious, which was actually a white lie
A common example of a white lie is telling your Grandma that her cake is good, even if it tastes terrible, to avoid hurting her feelings The intention behind this untruth is not to deceive but to bring her happiness Being honest about the cake's taste might lead to disappointment, whereas the white lie encourages and uplifts her spirit, ultimately causing no harm.
In Vietnamese culture, the idiom "doi trang thay den," which translates to "turning white to black," reflects the concept of replacing truth with falsehood, symbolized by the contrasting colors of white and black While "black" is associated with negativity and misfortune, "white" embodies goodness, purity, and luck This saying highlights the cultural significance of these colors in representing opposing values and beliefs.
In traditional beliefs and fiction, ghosts are considered the souls or spirits of deceased individuals or animals that can manifest to the living in various forms These manifestations range from invisible presences to translucent shapes or lifelike visions The idiom "as white as a ghost" is commonly used in English to describe someone who appears pale due to illness, shock, or fear, as the blood drains from their face, resulting in a ghostly complexion.
The idiom "trắng bệch như ma," which translates to "pale as a ghost," highlights the cultural significance of the color white in Vietnam, where it is associated with death and funerals In Vietnamese beliefs, ghosts and spirits are often depicted with white faces and clothing, evoking fear and unease This connection between the color white and the supernatural illustrates the deep-rooted cultural perceptions surrounding death and the afterlife in Vietnamese society.
Eg: My sister became white as a ghost when she saw the man at the window
（http://www.learn4good.com/languages/evrd_idioms/id-c.htm）
My sister was startled when she saw a man at the window, feeling a wave of fear and shock She imagined he could be a thief or even a ghost, posing a threat to her safety His sudden appearance frightened her, causing her face to drain of color and turn pale.
English idioms and proverbs relating to green
Green, the hue of emeralds, jade, and lush grass, sits between yellow and blue in the visible light spectrum It is predominantly linked to nature, the environmental movement, spring, hope, and even envy.
To green-light is to give permission or a go ahead to move forward with a project The term is a reference to the green traffic signal, indicating "go ahead."
If you are given the green light, you are given approval and permission to do something
In the film and television industries, "green-lighting" refers to the formal approval of production financing, allowing projects to progress from development to pre-production and filming This authority typically rests with project or financial managers within an organization In organized crime, to "green-light" someone means to authorize their assassination, while in baseball, it signifies a player's permission from the manager to be aggressive in their play Additionally, the green light has come to symbolize hope and the American dream, representing the pursuit of success and happiness.
Eg: She's waiting for her doctor to give her the green light to play in Saturday's game
（http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/give+the+green+light）
"She is awaiting her doctor's approval to participate in the game, as her health may be compromised due to an illness or condition that makes playing unsafe Without the doctor's consent, she will be unable to join the game scheduled for Saturday."
We also can more clearly understand “green light” by another following example:
Eg: The builders were given the green light to begin the tower
（http://www.englishclub.com/vocabulary/idioms-colour.htm）
The term "green light" refers to the necessary financial and legal approvals that builders must obtain from higher authorities, such as directors and investors, before commencing a tower project With these approvals in place, builders can proceed without concerns about legal or financial issues related to their project.
The idiom "green light" illustrates the cultural and linguistic parallels between English and Vietnamese In the Vietnamese traffic system, a "green light" signifies that it is safe for pedestrians to cross the road Similarly, idiomatically, "green light" represents a signal of agreement or approval to proceed with an action, highlighting that both cultures share this common expression.
“bật đèn xanh” to describe that action
3.2 “GRASS IS ALWAYS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE”
The proverb highlights the tendency to perceive others' circumstances as more favorable than our own, even when this perception is misleading It draws on the imagery of admiring a neighbor's lawn, which may seem lusher and more appealing, while overlooking any flaws and undervaluing the positives of our own situation This illustrates the common human inclination to compare ourselves to others, often leading to dissatisfaction with our own lives.
The proverb's meaning can be easily grasped through the metaphor of "grass" and "green." Similarly, Vietnamese culture offers the saying "đứng núi này trông núi nọ," which conveys a nearly identical sentiment.
In Vietnamese culture, the proverb "grass is always greener on the other side" is expressed through the imagery of standing on one mountain while gazing at another, highlighting the universal theme of longing for what one does not have This reflects a common sentiment that transcends language and culture, illustrating how different expressions can convey similar meanings.
Many individuals struggle with dissatisfaction, often believing that what they possess is inferior to what others have This constant comparison leads them to desire ownership of everything that others enjoy, fostering a sense of envy and longing Ultimately, this mindset can hinder personal happiness and fulfillment, as they fail to appreciate their own achievements and possessions.
A: Have you seen my new neighbor? He’s good-looking!
B: Your wife is good-looking as well Don’t you think that maybe the grass is always greener on the other side? You are jealous just because he’s your neighbor
A: You’re right, thanks Stay away from my wife
（http://www.idiomeanings.com/idioms/）
The man in this example constantly believes that his neighbor's possessions and circumstances are superior to his own, despite having similar or even better conditions He embodies the mindset of "the grass is always greener on the other side," fixating on what others have that he perceives as better than his own life.
In Vietnamese culture, the color green is often associated with various idioms that convey specific meanings One such idiom, "mặt xanh nanh vàng," describes a person's face turning pale or green due to fear or illness Another expression, "mắt xanh mỏ đỏ," refers to women who enjoy applying makeup, particularly with green eyeshadow and red lipstick These idioms reflect the cultural significance of color in expressing emotions and personal style.
4 Idioms and proverbs relating to Blue
Blue, a color representing the clear sky and deep sea, occupies a position in the optical spectrum between violet and green Symbolizing tranquility and peace, blue can also evoke feelings of sadness Numerous English idioms and proverbs incorporate the color blue, reflecting its cultural significance.
Feeling blue refers to experiencing feelings of sadness or unhappiness, often linked to depression This emotional state is a natural and normal response of the human body to various life circumstances.
Many individuals experience short-term depression during significant life changes, such as the death of a loved one, job loss, or even the arrival of a new child This type of depression typically lasts for a few days to a few weeks However, as individuals develop coping mechanisms to navigate these transitions, their depression often subsides, allowing them to adapt and thrive in their new circumstances.
Eg: She always feels blue during the winter time
（http://www.idiomeanings.com/idioms/）
Many individuals experience mood fluctuations influenced by the weather, with warm and sunny days typically enhancing happiness, while colder, darker days can lead to feelings of fatigue and sadness This phenomenon is especially prevalent during winter, a season often associated with the "winter blues," characterized by feelings of depression and low energy Additionally, winter can evoke unhappy memories or feelings of loneliness, further contributing to a person's melancholic state For instance, the statement "she always feels blue during the winter time" illustrates how the season can trigger sadness for various personal reasons.
Some difficulties in studying idioms and proverbs
Many individuals aspire to learn English idioms and proverbs, yet they encounter numerous challenges Throughout my research on these topics, I have faced several obstacles that hinder the learning process.
Firstly, because of different geography, the differences between the cultures of two countries are unavoidable, especially the idiom and proverb system
Secondly, idiom, proverb, saying, quotation, slang and so on are similar to each other, thus identifying idioms and proverbs among them is not an easy job
Many idioms and proverbs are challenging to interpret accurately due to their connection with the literal meanings of individual words or phrases However, understanding them becomes easier when they are placed in context, as familiarity with the specific situation enhances comprehension.
The idiom "Red-letter Day" refers to a special, significant, or unforgettable day For example, when someone celebrates a milestone, like a grandmother turning 90 years old, it becomes a memorable occasion, often marked by a big family party in her honor.
One of the key challenges learners face is understanding the appropriate levels of language style, particularly when determining if an idiom or proverb is suitable for informal contexts Additionally, translating English idioms and proverbs into Vietnamese poses difficulties, as finding equivalent expressions that accurately convey the original meanings can be complex.
This idiom can be found the similarity in Vietnamese “chợ đen”
However this idiom “blackleg” we cannot find the equivalent in Vietnamese It means a person who continues working when fellow workers are on strike
Suggested solutions
With the above difficulties, how to overcome them is still a great question The following tips are referred to help Vietnamese learners in their English studying:
To effectively understand and compare idioms and proverbs from both Vietnamese and English, learners must first explore the cultural beliefs, regional nuances, and habits of each country This foundational knowledge will enable them to interpret the meanings of various expressions accurately To verify their interpretations, it is essential to consult reputable dictionaries, such as the "Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary" by Sally Wehmeier, "Collection of Vietnamese-English Common Idioms, Proverbs and Folks" by Nguyễn Đình Hùng (2007, Youth Publisher, Ho Chi Minh City), and "Comparative Proverbs" by Phạm Văn Vĩnh (2003, Hanoi Publisher).
Secondly, the learners should study the features of idioms and proverbs carefully and distinguish them from other kinds of set expressions to identify the idioms and proverbs better
Thirdly, the learners can analyze the meaning of all components and the relationships among the components or study the meaning in the context or can ask native speaker
Fourthly, it is advisable not to make frequent use of slang expression because it is easy to sound strange
Fifthly, the learner should put idioms and proverbs in context It is easier to translate them as well as guess the meaning correctly
When learning English idioms and proverbs, it's important for learners to recognize that some have multiple equivalents, requiring careful selection Additionally, certain English expressions lack direct Vietnamese counterparts, necessitating paraphrasing or the identification of similar phrases.
CONCLUSION
In summary, numerous idioms and proverbs are associated with colors, yet due to time constraints and limited knowledge, I have highlighted only a selection of the most significant and popular ones The similarities and differences in these expressions between two countries significantly influence the life experiences reflected in their idioms and proverbs, both semantically and lexically.
The study's development is divided into three chapters, with Chapter 1 titled "Theoretical Background," which introduces essential knowledge about idioms and proverbs in both Vietnamese and English This chapter offers English learners valuable insights into language and culture, along with a comprehensive overview of idiomatic expressions and proverbs.
In Chapters 2 and 3, we explore "Idioms and Proverbs Relating to Colors in English and Vietnamese" and address "Challenges Faced by English Learners with Suggested Solutions." This section presents various idioms and proverbs, accompanied by examples to enhance the learning process A comparative analysis of English idioms and their Vietnamese counterparts is provided to help learners grasp the cultural nuances of each expression Additionally, Part 3 discusses the specific difficulties encountered when learning idioms and proverbs related to colors.
Due to time constraints and my limited expertise, this article primarily examines idioms and proverbs associated with key colors, comparing them to their Vietnamese counterparts and highlighting translation challenges Further exploration of additional aspects will be reserved for future research.
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